Céline Bonacina Trio: Open Heart

Baritone saxophone, bass guitar and drums isn't exactly what you'd call a standard line-up, and the sense of a novelty act is heightened by the sight of Céline Bonacina barely visible behind her instrument. One might cynically speculate that the French saxophonist knows exactly what she's doing, but the music refutes any suggestion of gimmickry. It's not cutting edge, but the well-crafted melodies and infectious grooves with an international flavour and echoes of the Pat Metheny Group will find Bonacina a wider audience than many more conventional line- ups. Throw in production by adventurous Vietnamese guitarist Nguyên Lê, guest appearances by vibraphonist Pascal Schumacher and celebrated percussionist Mino Cinelu, not to mention a bonus track featuring über-hip German pianist Michael Wollny, and Open Heart is a hit waiting to happen. celine-bonacina.com