New Change by Sarah Reich is a wonderful fusion of jazz and tap, bringing the long rich history between the two into the modern aesthetic. Reich, a teacher and purveyor of the tap discipline, combines music with the rhythm and soul of tap to create a recording that is captivating. The dancer is a percussive instrumentalist here, interacting with the music and musicians, not just being accompanied by them. The production is clever in its presentation and use of story and array of musical styles. Reich, who co-created most of the music on the recording, is aided by the musicianship of Sam Barsh and Scott Bradlee on pianos, Danny Janklow on saxophone, Mike Cottone on trumpet, Alex Boneham and Brandon Brown on bass, among others. Singer Maiya Sykes also adds vocals to several tunes. A truly wonderful and visionary project.
