Still eclectic, even in an acoustic jazz setting!

This "summer" release is the second of four planned CD-singles by Monday Michiru in conjuction with the change in seasons. As on the "spring" single NEW BEGINNINGS, Monday Michiru has seemingly entered a new phase. Her previous melting-pot "acid-jazz" approach has morphed into what can most easily be described as being "acoustic" jazz, albeit with a percussive Latin-flavored rhythmic foundation...OPTIMISTA one year later!

MYSTERIES OF LIFE runs 14 minutes, allowing the track to build slowly but hypnotically. Beginning with impressionistic piano, the track moves into a syncopated jazz/funk groove with thought-provoking lyrics and a restrained yet emotive vocal, and finishes with an extended instrumental coda with scat singing, piano, and percussion solos. The disco-like trance provides a subtler indication of Monday Michiru's chronic eclectism.

The 7-minute INSPIRATION is a calm acoustic jazz ballad with a tasteful large ensemble accompiament, possibly by the Mingus Big Band (although there's no personnel listed). The 12-minute title track develops over an Afro-Latin beat...more sophistication with a deeply soulful delivery, and ending with a percussion/vocal jam.

The first edition comes with a one-track bonus CD, featuring Monday Michiru's version of the BeeGees' HOW DEEP IS YOUR LOVE. It's a solid updating of the original, but not in the same league as disc one (clearly it's meant to be a stand-alone cut).