For his debut recording Curtis Nowosad inserts a pair of original compositions to an album of jazz impressions of popular music. Spanning several genres, it’s an eclectic mix, with songs by Joni Mitchell, Roger Waters, Black Star, Tupac Shakur, and Bob Marley. The Skeptic And The Cynic opens with fresh interpretation of Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel.” Upping the tempo and making it swing, Nowosad captures those pre-date butterflies when your heart could burst through your chest. That bounce continues throughout the album, the jumpy title track keeps the toes tapping with a great beat, rolling baseline and punchy piano solos. Bandleader and drummer Curtis Nowosad is supported on The Skeptic And The Cynic, by an all-star lineup from the University of Manitoba Jazz Program, including Steve Kirby, Larry Roy, Jimmy Greene, Derrick Gardner, and Will Bonness. Other guests include Julian Bradford, another highly respected local musician, and Grammy nominee Taylor Eigeti. Though “California Love” and “My Old Man” tend to drag at times, the album has a whole does not, and is a consistent affair. A pleasant and quite enjoyable listen. (Independent, CurtisNowosad.com) Broose Tulloch