Andy Sheppard, Rita Marcotulli, Michel Benita: Salt Catchers

Possessing a distinct cirrus toned tenor and soprano, Andy Sheppard creates pastel portraits with Rita Marcotulli/p and Michael Benita/b on this album of gentle conversations. Marcutulli provides Bill Evans-styled support in the impressionistic “Draw You In St ars”, graceful ideas on the serene “Lawns” and soft pedals on “Elevation”, while giving tensile support when strumming the strings on the title tune. Benia brings a warm intro to the serene “Sagado” and flows with the leader on “Those That Left”, with the entire album consisting of delicate delights.