Reviews
The first reviews of Glee are in!
From Seven Days
Julien, who teaches in the University of Vermont’s music program, is a gifted composer and soulful performer. Her eloquent phrasing is intricate and inviting, and her arrangements are captivating.
From MusesMuse.com
Her abstract Jazz project which conisists of concise compositions that are executed with passion and precision, is best when consumed in its entirety – the hallmark of an outstanding project.
From Cadence Magazine, Vol. 32, No. 12, Dec. 2006
Glee has a dark, pensive vibe about it that on some level recalls the partnership of Kevin Eubanks and Kent Jordan from some years back (though with a different level of technical facility). I’ve never been a flute-o-phobe like many listeners are. But even so, Ms. Julien’s playing would I think prove pleasing even to the most prejudiced. It’s really the combination of fine, economical soloing with these very spacious tunes that makes this recording so fine. Occasionally the materials have a playful, bouncing quality such as one hears on “To Meg.” But more often they make use of fairly interesting harmonies and progressions (particularly on bassist Harlos’ “Mei Ling”) to construct darker themes—for evidence, take a listen to “Without” (a somber, introspective theme where Mr. Julien’s tasteful guitar leads the way) and the perhaps ironically named “Glee.” My one kvetch is that I wish the guitarist would feature himself a bit more—for when he does step out, as on the fractured “Blues for Patricia,” he sounds quite fine. With a distinct sound, good reserved playing, and nice tunes, this disc is a pleasing reminder of how many wonderful players are out there in local scenes creating worthy music.