Also this issue: The Big Con Why Philadelphia bands play the CMJ festival. -Patrick Rapa Tropical Impressions Caetono Veloso tells the truth. -A.D. Amorosi suitespot -Peter Burwasser on Classical Back to Basics Which in The Divine Comedy's case means less rock, more baroque. -Sam Adams Flute Awakening -Peter Burwasser Right On Time -Sam Adams Catherine Irwin -Sam Adams Kim Richey -Sam Adams

November 7-13, 2002

musicpicks

Ruth Naomi Floyd

"How should I praise you, O my Lord? I long to know." This is a refrain in "Micah," one of several arresting original songs on Fan Into Flame (Contour), the new album by Ruth Naomi Floyd. Despite the line of questioning, Floyd seems to know exactly how to fashion her praise: with unapologetic ardor and unmitigated intensity. As a lifelong resident of Philadelphia (her father is the Reverend Melvin Floyd), she commands a deep understanding of Gospel sounds. What makes her music revelatory is the way she filters these sanctified influences through the lens of ultra-modern jazz. In this regard, she couldn't have a better crew: pianist James Weidman, saxophonists Gary Thomas and Bobby Zankel, vibraphonist Bryan Carrott, bassist Matthew Parrish and drummer Mark Prince. Their contributions nudge Fan Into Flame into the stratosphere, right alongside Floyd's burnished-bronze mezzo-soprano voice. This record-release concert (with all the musicians listed above) should rise to similar heights.

Sat., Nov. 9, 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., $20, The Painted Bride Art Center, 230 Vine St., 215-925-9914.

—Nate Chinen