Dana Salzman’s new album “Rising” is definitely the spirit of soul funk and first impression made vibes like Lucy Pearl come to mind. This native of Dayton, Ohio is a protégé of Slave, Bootsy Collins of Parliament Funkadelic and other late 70s couplings of soul and jazz talents.

The first couple of tunes quickly introduce a new retro spin. For some it might bring about a recalling of oneself, exploring music freely with a Casio or like version keyboard.

“Rising” is light, airy and more than singing. Salzman is simply speaking as a woman. Her music addresses things such as entertaining thoughts of loving, reminiscing, what’s good, what she wants, and feelings – it’s everyday, Sunday to Sunday.

If the album were lemonade it would be the chemistry between the mint and syrup, refreshingly sweet. If it was poker Salzman would be laying her cards on the table putting it all out there with everyday emotions.

Emotions perhaps in some souls are unspoken and in others are way too loud to be understood.  Salzman’s creativity inspires listeners to be freely jazzed about themselves and the everyday. Track 9 “Slow down,” for example, can be perfect for a moment to find a happy median and discover one’s life pitch and song.

Salzman’s talent began with her own being. Her musical fundamentals and piano lessons were taught by her mother. She obtained jazz exposure by Bay Area and Broadway’s very own Don Haas, who became her mentor at the age of 11.

“He taught me the foundations of improvising. He taught me how to understand chords and harmonies on a whole different level,” says Salzman referring to her mentor Haas.

Salzman attended California’s Stanford Jazz Workshop during the summers of 1993 and 1994. Her first band, from San Jose, was called Pigeon Talk.

Salzman later went on to earn her degree in jazz performance through New York’s New School of Jazz and Contemporary Music. Her first CD, “It’s Out Of Your Hands,” was released in 2007.

Salzman’s experience and inspiration brings new bars to music. Now she has returned to her second home, the Bay Area, to allow the aroma of her musical creativity to inspire and continue “rising.” Listen out for her in upcoming venues and events.