Anne Drummond - Modern Standards (2025) [Hi-Res]

Known for her lyrical expression, exceptional tone, and technical brilliance, Anne Drummond stands as one of the most sought-after and respected flute players of her generation. A veteran of Kenny Barron’s Quintet, she has enjoyed a remarkable career as both performer and composer. With Modern Standards, she brings her artistry to new heights, curating a collection of some of the most influential and enduring compositions in jazz history.

For this project, Anne assembles a stellar quartet that highlights the beauty and versatility of her flute playing. Rashaan Carter’s deeply resonant bass, Allan Mednard’s intricate yet driving rhythms on drums, and Juan Diego Villalobos’ shimmering vibraphone lines form a dynamic and cohesive ensemble that breathes new life into these revered modern standards. Together, they create interpretations that are as engaging as they are inventive, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary sensibilities.

The album explores a wide range of moods and textures, from the soaring harmonies of “Windows” to the meditative lyricism of “Infant Eyes.” Each track showcases the quartet’s profound connection, with Anne’s flute weaving through their interplay like a golden thread. Highlights include the delicate, lullaby-like rendition of Herbie Hancock’s “Tell Me a Bedtime Story” and a fresh, rhythmic take on Pat Metheny’s “Bright Size Life,” where the quartet demonstrates both technical agility and emotional depth.

Anne’s ability to bring a fresh perspective to these iconic works is a testament to her deep understanding of jazz’s lineage and her ability to reimagine its future. This is music that respects the past while boldly charting its own path forward.

What sets this album apart sonically is its exceptional recording process. Captured in stunning 3D mega-dimensional sound as part of the Audiophile Society Ribbon Series, the album employs all-tube microphone preamps and ribbon microphones to create a soundscape of unparalleled warmth and natural clarity. Each instrument is presented with vivid detail, inviting listeners to experience the music as if they were seated in the studio. The result is not just an album you hear, but one you feel deeply‒immersed in its purest, most organic form.

Whether you're a lifelong jazz aficionado or discovering this music for the first time, Modern Standards will captivate, inspire, and resonate deeply.