The world of jazz music has become an ideal place for collaborations between musicians from different lands and cultures. The practices of songwriting and improvisation reach beyond barriers of different languages. Guitarist Davy Mooney has long embraced having a global community in music, finding musical homes in Brazil and Japan. It was in Japan where he met a favorite musical foil, drummer Ko Omura.

After his first Sunnyside release over a decade ago, Mooney looked to expand his touring horizons by looking toward Japan. Omura was recommended by a friend and joined the guitarist on his tour. The duo formed a tight bond and began a musical partnership, which led to their 2018 recording, Benign Strangers. Though the pandemic slowed their work together, the two made sure to keep the spirit alive, capturing it on their new recording, The Word.

When Mooney and Omura were finally able to reconvene, they brought together the same ensemble of brilliant musicians that they featured on Benign Strangers. Woodwind master John Ellis returns with his array of saxophones and clarinets. Pianist Glenn Zaleski and bassist Matt Clohesy are perfect in their reading and response to the varied program.