Album Review: Ramona by Carl V Moore – A Contemporary Jazz Journey Worth Taking
Carl V Moore’s 2020 album Ramona is a smooth, soulful ride through the world of contemporary jazz. Released under the GJN label and hailing from the US, this record feels like a late-night conversation with an old friend—warm, reflective, and unapologetically human. With its mix of mellow grooves and unexpected twists, Ramona carves out its own little corner in the jazz landscape.
One track that sticks with me is “Carter Lake.” It’s got this laid-back vibe that pulls you in without trying too hard. The piano work here feels almost conversational, like it’s telling a story you didn’t know you needed to hear. Paired with some subtle basslines and soft percussion, it’s one of those songs that makes you stop whatever you’re doing and just listen. You can practically feel the cool breeze off the water as the melody drifts along. It’s not flashy, but sometimes simplicity hits harder than anything else.
Then there’s “Hold Me Tonight,” which flips the mood entirely. This one leans into a more emotional, almost tender space. The saxophone takes center stage here, weaving in and out with a kind of raw vulnerability that’s rare to find. If “Carter Lake” is a quiet sunset, this track is the moment when you realize how much someone means to you. Yeah, it’s a bit sappy, but hey, isn’t that what good music’s supposed to do? Make you feel something?
The rest of the album keeps things interesting, though a few tracks (like “Tryin’ to Make It” and “What Are Your Plans for Tomorrow”) lean a bit repetitive. But honestly, even those moments add to the overall flow—it’s less about perfection and more about capturing a vibe. And let’s not skip over the fact that “Mud in the Water” shows up twice. Is it intentional? A happy accident? Either way, it works. By the second time around, you’re humming along like an old favorite.
What surprised me most about Ramona wasn’t just the music itself—it was how personal it felt. Listening to it, you get the sense that Carl V Moore isn’t just making jazz; he’s sharing pieces of himself. There’s no pretense, no overproduced sheen. Just honest, heartfelt tunes that remind you why jazz still matters.
So if you’re looking for something low-key yet deeply satisfying, give Ramona a spin. Oh, and maybe grab a cup of coffee while you’re at it—this album pairs well with caffeine and quiet afternoons. Or maybe that’s just me. Who knows?
