Writing in May 2026, independent review platform Take Effect delivers a 9/10 rating for A Breath of Fresh Air, praising Sean Mason's second album as a leader as an adventurous, highly engaging record that balances vibrant, high-energy swing with deeply intimate, soulful retreats.
Joined by his core quintet of Tony Glausi, Chris Lewis, Felix Moseholm, and Domo Branch, Mason opens the record with "Rediscovery," built around his distinct keys alongside Lewis's playful sax and Branch's frisky drums, before "Secrets" follows with Moseholm's animated bass lines suiting Glausi's rich trumpet tone.
PLAYFUL ANTHEMS AND SOPHISTICATED TEXTURES
The review calls out "Boneback" as melodic and infectious, driven by a charming rhythm section and colorful horn interaction, and closer "Kiss Me" for its cautious, textured finish, a sophisticated and timeless way to end the record.
“There is a sonically adventurous take on jazz here that you can’t not admire.” — Take Effect
ABOUT A BREATH OF FRESH AIR ALBUM
A Breath of Fresh Air stands as a testament to raw group intuition, recorded completely live at Bunker Studios in Brooklyn over two days in late December 2024. Bypassing sheet music, isolation booths, and headphones, Sean Mason taught the entire eight-track repertoire completely by ear. Released on October 24, 2025, via Taylor Christian Records, the project blends gospel roots, southern parade rhythms, and modern New York bop.
ABOUT TAKE EFFECT
Take Effect Reviews is a prominent, fully independent music review site that evaluates albums, EPs, and new releases spanning a diverse array of genres, including indie, punk, metal, country, electronic, rock, and jazz. Operated entirely without financial compensation for its critiques, the outlet relies on direct submissions from independent artists and boutique labels, providing an authentic, filter-free voice in contemporary music journalism.
RESOURCES
Official Website: seanmason.net
Stream the Album: Listen on Spotify
Original Source: Read the full review on Take Effect
