Group finds intimate blend

Christian jazz. Those are two words that I never thought would ever appear in the same paragraph. But "Convert Augustine," the newest endeavor by GromKo - a jazz group originating in Brooklyn, N.Y. - successfully blends both.

Not that converting people to Christianity is their exigency, but there is something to be said about their interpretation(s) of Merton's Prayer. And their faith is only briefly hinted at in certain tracks , but it's still worth mentioning. Yes, Christianity aside, their jazz is something that I could listen to in any venue.

Their sound is a blend of a Rhodes piano, bass, some guitar, drum kit and vocals (compliments of their frontwoman Sarah Gromko). This is a normal combination for a smooth jazz combo or alternative combo, and it creates the easy listening that is expected of an alternative jazz group. It's good for the sort of intimate feel that the album is meant to convey, and it works for GromKo.

"Converting Augustine" is about relationships. This is made clear by the text inside the disk jacket as well as the lyrics, to even the first song, "What is This Thing Called Love?"

This is the CD's best quality. It is intimate, which is a rare thing for CDs these days. I haven't heard something this intimate since Norah Jones, and before that, Patsy Cline. I was equally impressed by the skill of the musicians accompanying Sarah G. on her tracks. Their solos are nearly flawless.

The downside to the record is twofold, and both reasons have to do with the popularity factor. Firstly GromKo tries to achieve the "accidental genius" feel with the cityscape cover art and the lengthy explanations that accompany every song, but it's overdone and therefore sort of obnoxious.

It's like reading an article on modern art where the author assumes that the readers are keyed into every term of artistry. Not only would this annoy people like me, and therefore bring record sales down, but it would also limit their next album. If you sell something as your best, it's almost impossible to top it with a follow-up EP.

Overall, the CD is one that I'm more inclined to rip from a friend than go out to the store to buy (if you can find a store that's selling it in the first place). But if you're into jazz, it's worth a listen.

As far as Christianity is concerned, don't look any deeper than "I ask the Lord in heaven above, what is this thing called love?"