New Orleans based vocalist Carmela Rappazzo after a veteran career in New York, Los Angeles and elsewhere has taken advantage of the deep well of local talent interested in exploring jazzy original music. On her most recent release, “9”, Rappazzo returns to the same territory she explored on her critically-acclaimed 2023 album, Whispering. It’s her ninth release and second featuring mostly original music.

Paul Sanchez is a co-writer and vocalist. Glenn Hartman of the New Orleans Klezmer Allstars plays accordion. Jazz bassist Jasen Weaver provides a solid, understated bottom to these mostly wistful, slow tempo compositions. Musical director Russell Welch’s sympathetic guitar underpins some of the cuts.

Rappazzo enlists various less-heard instruments as well, including cello, piccolo trumpet and bass clarinet. Ace engineer and mixer Rick Nelson of Marigny Studios adds vibraphone. It’s an eclectic cast of musicians and a unique sound.

Come celebrate the project and music for Carmela Rapazzo’s album release at Snug Harbor.