Laila Biali - From Sea To Sky

She’s released indie records, but this is my first intro to North Van-raised, Toronto-residing and New York-bound pianist/singer Biali. Very nice to meet. From the opening glissando of Sarah McLachlan’s “Ice Cream” through a lovely cover of Ruth Lowe’s “I’ll Never Smile Again,” featuring a killer trumpet solo from Guido Basso, there isn’t a misstep. Indeed, her cadre of helpers, including Phil Dwyer on sax, fabulous vibraphonist Don Thompson and former Vancouverite Claire Lawrence producing, is top-drawer. Featuring all-Canadian songs, this screams “Juno.”

Price: $25.98