HANNAH GILL, I Like the Sunrise

Great jazz singers often discover that the surest way to illuminate the enduring brilliance of a classic songwriter is not through radical reinvention, but by clearing away distractions and allowing the songs themselves to shine anew. On I Like the Sunrise, vocalist Hannah Gill does exactly that, crafting an elegant, intimate and deeply personal tribute to Duke Ellington that trades orchestral grandeur for the warmth of a close-knit ensemble and the pleasures of musical conversation.

Best known for the spirited swing, theatrical flair and infectious energy that have marked much of her career, Gill reveals a more reflective dimension of her artistry here. Backed by guitarist Luis Salcedo, bassist Phil Ambuel, drummer Adam Ray and, on select tracks, saxophonist Ricky Alexander, she approaches this repertoire with confidence, restraint and an unfailing instinct for storytelling. Her rich, full-bodied voice moves effortlessly between buoyant swing and wistful reflection, while her artful phrasing continually uncovers fresh shades of meaning within these familiar melodies.

The album opens with the easygoing charm of “So Far, So Good,” immediately establishing the relaxed chemistry between Gill and her ensemble. “Love You Madly” finds her bringing a playful wink and rhythmic sparkle to Ellington’s charming melody, while “I’m Just a Lucky So and So” glides forward with understated grace. On “I Didn’t Know About You” and “I Got It Bad (And That Ain’t Good),” Gill’s ability to communicate longing and vulnerability without theatrical excess proves especially compelling. The title track emerges as the album’s graceful centerpiece, balancing hopefulness and quiet contemplation in a performance that artfully captures the spirit of the project as a whole.

Throughout, the musicians favor nuance over display, leaving room for every phrase, guitar figure and saxophone flourish to breathe naturally. Even the album’s striking blue-toned, double-exposure artwork seems to mirror the music’s character, suggesting reflection, depth and shifting perspectives. Like the imagery on its cover, I Like the Sunrise invites listeners to revisit familiar songs and hear them with fresh ears.