*** RENEE ROSNES”As We Are Now”Blue NoteCanadian-born...

*** RENEE ROSNES

“As We Are Now”

Blue Note

Canadian-born pianist Rosnes writes music that moves with a certain jump. She requires a persistent, pushy rhythmic attack, as her tunes often navigate tangled paths over frequently changing terrain. This fifth and most carefully composed album from the 35-year-old Rosnes benefits from the inclusion of drummer Jack DeJohnette and bassist Christian McBride, who power her compositions with all the muscle they demand.

The Rosnes originals--six of the nine cuts--weave improvs through a trellis of verse, bridge and chorus. The mood is shadowy, as tunes develop tension with unexpected chord changes and minor-key feel. Her piano playing is equally developmental, and Rosnes displays a narrative sense that, despite twists and turns, is as easy to follow as a story board.

The most serious piece is her dedication to Georgia O’Keeffe, “Abstraction Blue,” in which the theme unfolds slowly like petals of a flower. The title tune is a considered rumination filled with pretty moments. The swirling piano lines of “Non-Fiction” frame Chris Potter’s insistently honest tenor saxophone. “As We Are Now” is Rosnes’ most important album to date.

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