Caipi (2017)

"As a jazz guitarist with leanings toward Pat Methenys song-rooted openness, Kurt Rosenwinkel has long been a discreetly creative leader of fine bands. But hes long nurtured an urge towards more vocals-oriented music, that could include his reflections on the human condition. It was hinted at on 2003s "Heartcore", and revisited on "Caipi", on which he sings and plays many instruments, and which includes some telling vignettes from Eric Clapton and the classy tenor saxophonist Mark Turner. Rosenwinkels rich frameworks for Eliane Eliass singer daughter Amanda Brecker sometimes suggest that an intriguing, Metheny-and-hip-hop-inflected update of classic samba jazz hides in the wings, and the leader is typically fluent and narratively elegant whenever he cuts loose on guitar. But improv takes a back seat to some prosaic autobiographical songs, cleverly produced and harmonised ensemble pieces and a dinner-jazzy vibe that undercuts the projects undoubtedly sincere objectives." (John Fordham, The Guardian)