Originality
(Blink Music)

An encounter with gospel music sidetracked South Korean pianist Mina Cho from a career in classical music and into the world of jazz. Originality is the impressive recording debut for the 2009 Berkelee College of Music grad. Cho’s performances certainly give away her classical discipline, while the compositions’ syncopated rhythms provide colorful and improvisational landscapes to navigate. The melodic interplay between Cho and saxophonist Andrew Halchak is equally compelling. Also featured on the session are bassist Sam J.C. Lee, drummer Mario Rodriguez and guitarist Shu Odamura. Cho, who wrote all of the music on this recording, including lyrics for the vocal titled, “Because You Are Looking At Me”, is an incredibly gifted bright new light on the jazz skyline.