Many New Trails to Blaze showcases three musicians: trumpet and cornet player James Zingara, pianist Chris Steele and clarinetist Denise Gainey, in a jazz-infused modern classical music album.

This won't be to everyone's tastes. The occasional discordant nature of the tracks and the, what at first appears to be, directionless structure of pieces like 'Flying Over the Water II' will leave some feeling cold.

However, if you're a fan of modern classical music or you're a musician with a keen interest in any of the instruments included then you'll enjoy the fact that each of the musicians, as well as their instrument of choice, takes centre stage at various points. Hearing each instrument so clearly help you to fully appreciate the individual playing.

For me, sadly, it wasn't really an album I could comfortably listen to for pleasure. As a listening experience, to understand better the workings of each instrument, it has its place, it's just that while technically intriguing it failed to stimulate me on any emotional level.

5

Darren Rea