Jane Ira Bloom
Mental Weather
Outline
By George W. Harris

Returning to the original label that she began her career with 30 some years ago, soprano saxist Jane Ira Bloom shows that she’s lost none of the iconoclastic spirit that has marked her long and intriguing career. This release, finding Bloom in a mostly acoustic format, includes Mark Helias (b), Matt Wilson (d) and Dawn Clement (k) for a white knuckler rider that includes music as the caroming “Electrochemistry” and the insightful ballad “A More Beautiful Question.” Bloom’s tone is still a sonic wonder; crystal clear like a full moon on a starless night, it shines brightest on the doe eyed reading of “This Nearly Was Mine.” Still taking chances with melodies, harmonies and various rabbit trails on her solo ventures, Bloom continues to keep your interest