Byron Asher, who plays multiple reed instruments, leads his 11-piece ensemble, Skrontch Music, in a program of his compositions and concepts. In several respects, this talent-packed group of some of New Orleans’ finest players, works in an orchestral-like setting particularly during the album’s early cuts. Later, the music and vibe change dramatically.

It opens with a selection called “The Problem with Mississippi” with a sample of the voice of Fannie Lou Hamer stating the phrase and adding, “…is America’s problem.”

With Asher’s bass clarinet out front, tonally the emotional impact stands as a lament that is furthered by the, well, almost plodding rhythm. Then, as if throwing off a burden the mood becomes somewhat exalted. It leads naturally into “New Louisiana Hoodoo Blues,” a companion piece of sorts due to the toil of the beat.

Cut six, simply titled “Threads” is the album’s game changer. Its Latin rhythm lifts the spirit and it’s given a happy flavor by Aurora Nealand‘s lively soprano saxophone. Her solo is followed and complemented by a duet between sousaphonist Steve Glenn and pianist Oscar Rossignoli.

Legendary vocalist Ma Rainey is sampled to sing with the ensemble on “Ma Rainey’s Barrelhouse Blues” with Shaye Cohn providing the essential cornet part. James Singleton‘s bass sounds gorgeous here as he bows to the tradition yet adds his individual, modern outlook.

The closer, “Papa Likes His Outside Women, Mama Likes Her Outside Men” is straight-up jazz that benefits mightily from the unison and imagination of the ensemble and those who step out from its ranks.

The stylist repertoire of Lord, When You Send the Rain is, to say the least, unusual as it moves from darkly sullen to jazz’s outer edges and returns home to the light. Throughout this uncommon journey, the musicians remain one comprehensive tribe.

Byron Asher