Led by soprano saxophonist/flautist/vocalist Hailey Niswanger, jazzy sextet MAE.SUN creates soulful, swirling musical journeys designed to take you out of this world. While one might be tempted to rubber-stamp the style of this New York-based group as flat-out “jazz,” a deeper listen reveals underlying textures of neo-soul and funk, with dashes of electronica thrown in as well. Their improvisations dip and float through the air as if kept aloft by a strong, gusty wind, but at the same time are meditative and emotionally resonant. Lovers of expert musicianship and jazz fusion won’t want to miss it.

by Wm. Steven Humphrey