'Attraction' by Sébastien Jarrousse Quartet

'Attraction' is the new album from French saxophonist, Sébastien Jarrousse, whose stunning new release is unveiled courtesy of Italy's A.MA Records.

Whenever we have the fortune of spending time with a new album from the A.MA catalogue, it always feels somewhat remiss to not say a few words about the label's overall excellence.  While we've celebrated recent releases from Gianluca Vigliar, Andrea Gomellini and Sanja Markovic, the past few months have also afforded us the opportunity to dig deeper within A.MA's releases, exploring past projects from The Motion Collective ('Unstuck in Time', 2015), Francesca Sortino ('Be Free', 2017), Foglianese ('Subconscious Jazz', 2018) and Sébastien Jarrousse.

With his debut album from A.MA Records released in 2019, 'New Frequency' was Jarrousse's introduction to the A.MA audience which delivered a wonderful set bolstered by the superb tentet that backed him for the album.  Tracks like 'Tribute to Radio Head', 'Cuban Native' and the album's epic centrepiece 'Camelot Project' resulted in a wonderful showcase for Jarrousse and the album's lead vocalist Ellinoa (Camille Durand).

Born in Brittany, France, Sébastien Jarrousse can boast an incredibly dynamic career that has seen his talents celebrated through a variety of international awards and accolades, grace stages the world over and contribute to numerous projects including music by Cécile Verny, the Franco-German Tentet, Olivier Robin, as well as play band leader for an extensive array of his own ensembles.  It should come as no surprise then that in just the following year, Jarrousse follows up 'New Frequency' with a new project backed by an all new line-up no less.  

For 'Attraction', Jarrousse's quartet is comprised of the indelible talents of pianist Pierre-Alain Goualch, drummer Antoine Banville and double bassist Mauro Gargano.  With slightly less of a central role than afforded to her in 'New Frequency', Ellinoa's exquisite vocal still excels in elevating the music throughout.  While her contributions on 'Bonhomme De Chemin' and 'Ballade Pour Daphne' are clear album standouts, Ellinoa finds innovative new ways to interact with the compositions managing to beautifully intertwine her wordless vocals with the musicians around her.  

The collective here - which includes featured guests Sebastien Llado (trombone) and Gaetano Partipilo (saxophone) - takes great pride in their presentation of versatile and eclectic contemporary jazz.  While not as eclectic as its predecessor in terms of its joyous fusion of different genres and styles, 'Attraction' is something of a return to a more traditional jazz aesthetic and serves as another demonstration of Sébastien Jarrousse's skill - not just as a revered saxophonist - but also as a producer who relishes the challenge of reinventing himself.  With 'Attraction', Jarrousse continues masterfully building towards a fantastic musical legacy with a fantastic new album. 

Blue-in-Green:PODCAST #64: Joe Pignato from Bright Dog Red

Welcome to Episode #64 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST which sees Imran secure time with Bright Dog Red drummer and founder, Joe Pignato.

The improvisational jazz collective from Albany, New York, are set to release their third album in three years with Ropeadope Records. With their debut album, ‘Means To the Ends’ (Ropeadope Records, 2018), serving as a fascinating introduction to the band’s incomparable concoction of improvised jazz boldly mixed with elements of hip-hop and electronica, their follow-up record, ‘How’s By You?’, would come as soon as the following year. While Bright Dog Red’s debut masterfully dabbled within these different genres and styles, ‘How’s By You?’ incredibly seemed to plunge the band deeper within its own creation of psychedelic electronica but still managed to see them soar under these even more extreme conditions. 'Somethin’ Comes Along’ sees Bright Dog Red revisit the rule book once again for a two-disc album showcasing some stunning compositions brought to life by an awesome line-up of musicians.

Imran caught up with Joe Pignato to discuss the new album, releasing - and making - music during quarantine and all things Bright Dog Red.

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#64_Joe Pignato (Bright Dog Red)

The Blue-in-Green:PODCAST unveils new episodes on the first, second and third Mondays of the month. This podcast series runs in conjunction with the online radio station, Blue-in-Green:RADIO which celebrates 21st century soul, jazz, funk, Latin & hip-hop music. These shows are designed to give you some insight into the incredible range of talented presenters we're so lucky to host from all over the world and to geek out musically with us.

'Misunderstood' by Georgie Sweet

'Misunderstood' marks the debut album from singer and songwriter, Georgie Sweet, released through the UK's pioneering future soul label, Futuristica Music.

Having initially come up under the guidance of the inimitable Deborah Jordan, the boundless talents of Georgie Sweet have actually been bubbling away on Futuristica for a couple of years now.  After chalking up two scene-stealing guest appearances on DJ Simon S's 'Music 4 Alternative Souls' (2018) with the tracks 'Half Human' and 'Sunshine Through The Trees', Sweet's solo releases soon followed with the singles 'Here' and 'Sorry', paving the way for the 'Misunderstood' full-length.

For anyone fortunate enough to have caught any of the aforementioned releases, the news of 'Misunderstood' finally securing a release date would surely excite those completely taken in by the personality exuded by Sweet's incredible vocal.  Her natural versatility as a vocalist, creative penmanship and her overall presentation make her such a natural fit for Futuristica.

Founded by DJ and producer Simon S, the future soul label has introduced some genuinely genre-defining projects since its inception in 2006 - albums from Electric Conversation, Emanative, Kira Neris and of course Deborah Jordan have established the blueprint that make the label such a revered name within the realms of contemporary soul music.

And 'Misunderstood' is a glorious extension of that legacy.

Boasting a dream team of Futuristica talent on production duties: Simon S, Marc Rapson, Mecca:83, K15 and Theo Howarth... all masterful producers and music-makers in their own right but each with incredibly distinctive and varying styles.  Whether it be the dusty, hip-hop-inspired aesthetic of Simon S ('Half Human'), Rapson's quintessential nu-soul-sounding compositions ('Deserve Something') or K15's more electronic and otherworldly textures ('Untold'), Georgie Sweet proves to be the project's anchor in every way - able to adapt to each of these styles, unifying them all into a project that ranks incredibly high amongst Futuristica's best.

Despite possessing such a natural talent that makes what she's able to do just seem effortless, you get the sense that Sweet may not really know how good she actually is ("You will never be misunderstood; I will be the only one that's misunderstood").  Maybe that's part of her charm though?  Maybe if she did know, then something as special as the pairing with Marc Rapson for the live recording of ‘Sorry’ that closes the album would lose an element of the genuine sincerity that’s steeped within her performance.

2021 will actually mark Futuristica Music's fifteenth year of releasing music.  Amongst the label's slate of projects due for release that year, there's a selection of albums whose very timing could be perceived to be serendipitous in of itself.  Electric Conversation's La Note is due to release her new album with production from her EC band mate and long-term collaborator, As Valet; Deborah Jordan and Simon S have announced their long overdue follow-up to their revered Sun Circle album ('Reborn', 2009).  And while those aforementioned projects reward those long-time and loyal fans of the label, Georgie Sweet represents Futuristica's continual commitment to new energy, forging bonds and nurturing new talent.  If there was any artist that, at this time, could add to the flawless lineage of Futuristica's history and carry that baton to introduce the next fifteen years of the label... well the only person that it could be is Georgie Sweet.

'Misunderstood' by Georgie Sweet is available to purchase 19th October 2020.

'Keep Moving' by Kyle Lacy

'Keep Moving' is the new single from the the multi-faceted singer and songwriter, Kyle Lacy.

Through Lacy's past releases, he has been incredibly adept at immersing himself within a variety of varying musical styles and genres - from his rockabilly-inspired days as one-half of Harlem River Noise with Cody Gibson to his album 'The Road To Tomorrow' released under the umbrella of Brooklyn's Dala Records.

In collaboration with Dala founder and producer, Billy Aukstik, Lacy was afforded the platform to explore what we previously described on this site as "pristine southern soul", seeking inspiration from revered soul music icons including Sam Cooke and Eddie Harris.  The gospel-inspired, old school aesthetic saw Lacy right at home as if these were shoes he had been wearing for years.  And, although backed by an incredible band - including fellow Dala Records recording artists, Mel Johnston and Kim Foxen, providing backing vocals - 'The Road To Tomorrow' still allowed Lacy the creative freedom as the project's vocalist and songwriter to further demonstrate his indelible talents on guitar, piano and bass on varying tracks throughout the album.

The excursion into the realms of classic soul music continues with Lacy's new 70's inspired single, 'Keep Moving'.

"When times are hard, I gotta keep moving; Play the part of my choosing; No matter where I am on my darkest night, if I'm moving on, everything will be alright."

A song bursting with optimism and positivity despite the scary and incredibly difficult period that inspired it.  With much of the world now starting to see an easing in quarantine restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, the impact felt globally is unlike anything the world has experienced for generations.  Which is why these precious pieces of art are of such importance.  'Keep Moving' is that reassuring smile, that much-needed hi-five and that note of encouragement created to galvanize those who find themselves defeated by the year that continues to extract a heavy toll.  And while we live in the fear that more bad news is coming, the only way forward really is to keep moving!

'Cosmic Radio' comes to Blue-in-Green:RADIO

With great excitement Blue-in-Green:RADIO has the distinction of hosting the very first episode of As Valet's Cosmic Radio.

Airing the first Wednesday of every month at 10pm(UK) and recorded in Paris, France - the revered producer and DJ has boundless achievements and accolades to his name.  Having just released his stunning third album - 'Inner Journey' through the French alt-hip-hop label, A Night on Canopy - As Valet can also lay claim to being a founding member of the four-piece of Electric Conversation.  Signed to Futuristica Music, the genre-defining future soul collective released two exquisite albums through the label ('Communication' and 'Electric Conversation') serving as compulsory purchases for fans of the nu- and future-soul genre.

With Cosmic Radio, As Valet issues an awe-inspiring selection of music celebrating contemporary and spiritual jazz to cosmic soul with a healthy amount of remixes and bonus tracks included to send us home even happier.

Episode #62 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST saw Imran catch up with As Valet to discuss his solo releases, Electric Conversation and Cosmic Radio:

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#62_As Valet

We couldn't be more excited to welcome the masterful As Valet to the Blue-in-Green:RADIO family for an incomparable two hours, airing the first Wednesday of every month at 10pm(UK).

'The Journey' by Rhys Daniel

'The Journey' marks the new album from British producer and pianist, Rhys Daniel.

With a strong theme of collaborations running throughout the project, 'The Journey' boasts pairings with numerous vocalists who breathe life into Daniel's compositions.  The music throughout the album's fourteen tracks seeks inspiration from various styles and genres but is very much, proudly, the product of the neo-soul generation.  For the genre's pioneers - including world class names like Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Bilal - their music laid down the groundwork for their vision of contemporary soul for the hip-hop generation; that aesthetic has not only expanded in the twenty-plus years since but also inspired waves of artists, producers and musicians to carry that torch for subsequent generations.

'The Journey' is indicative of that long-standing vision for R&B music but is also looking beyond and attempting to carve out its own lane.

A number of predominantly US-based vocalists are featured throughout the album with some serving as new collaborators and others as long-standing Rhys Daniel vocalists including Zulema Nakinda Cheek who guests on two tracks for 'The Journey' - 'So Anxious' and the soulful house-esque groove of 'Just One of A Million'.  Further, their 2016 collaborative project, 'Love Again', recently saw its reissue this year presenting their charming dynamic over the course of twelve tracks.

While all of the project's vocalists, including Lina, Roszunn, Alisha Glover and Yvette Meadows, each find their way to connect to Daniel's productions in a unique and distinctive way, Carlos Budd Ford's appearance on 'How Can I Not Love You?' is another track that warrants special mention as a genuine standout from the eclectic and diverse project.

'The Journey' delivers as a strong showcase of Daniel's talents and ability, and successfully sees the multi-talented producer on track to carve out his own lane.  Blue-in-Green:RADIO secured time with Rhys Daniel to discuss his own musical influences and how 'The Journey' came to be.

What are some of your earliest memories of music growing up?

When I was a child my Mum used to put on lots of Jazz vocalists like Sarah Vaughan, Aretha Franklin and Dinah Washington. This lasted till I was about 10. I never liked what my Dad listened to because it was mainly rock and country.  He didn't really get Jazz.  But they were eclectic parents because when friends would come over and a few bottles were opened everything was played.  My Granddad (RIP) was a fantastic singer who could sing Frank Sinatra songs very well, all the time!  I didn't discover my vocalists until later on, which would become an obsession with Donny Hathaway 'Live at the Filmore West' and Amy Winehouse, 'Frank'.  I liked a lot of 90's R&B but found it really aggressive in sound, lyrics and production.  Then Jill Scott and Erykah Badu came about but since then they have changed and meanwhile so have I and don't really listen to them anymore.  I'm the sort of musician that makes music based on current influences.  I can't read theory music, play sheet music or perform or sing really but I've got amazing ears and have a great personal connection with soulful music whatever the outcome.  So to answer your question, black music started me off and now I listen to more Snoh Aalegra; since Amy passed away, it's harder to listen to her music even though I do.  I think if I was to choose it would have to be Dinah Washington over Sarah Vaughan and Donny Hathaway over Marvin Gaye but I appreciate all good music be it white, black, soulful, whatever... if it is great music, I'll play it.

Can you tell us a little about the artists that were a big influence on you?

I've sort of answered it in the first answer but recently I've been heavily influenced by Lady Gaga.  I thought she was a commercial giant.  But she actually has a really authentic voice and I love BloodPop's production.  She's had a few album flops like ArtPop but when I hear passion and honesty in a voice I am hooked, no matter what genre it is or how crazy the artist is.  I've become a fan of Jhene Aiko for a while, I think she is great.  Her new album is very impressive. I enjoy listening to the first two Anderson .Paak albums.  I'm not really a fan of Adele anymore even though I appreciate her musicality, vocally she doesn't hit the spot.  Lana Del Rey is inspirational for me, but to answer your question, Whitney Houston made a huge impact on me growing up.  I loved her keyboard songs.  George Michael is another one too, Amy, just for her sense of humour, Donny Hathaway, Dinah Washington, so yeah, a bunch of random artists.  I'm probably eclectic like my parents.  I felt a connection with Soul/R&B artists from a young age.  I still do but remember listening to a lot of Whitney Houston.

How would you describe the creative process when it comes to making new music?

My music production is based on feelings and sounds.  It's probably why I failed my production MA, haha.  I like to produce using very warm sounds. Not using many effects unless the piano or keyboard needs reverb or tremolo.  It's quite an organic process even though it's MIDI! But I always think if it's done organically I could be producing quite new music that doesn't really fit into a genre.  I've stopped producing music since Covid-19 because I've not been feeling great so therefore haven't been producing great music.  But will be booking my new studio in a few days to start my instrumental electronic project, 'Let It Flow, Vol One'.

Congratulations on the release of The Journey: how did the concept of this album come to pass?

Thank you.  I had a lot of help on my debut, probably too much.  My next album I want to minimise the amount of people involved as it gets too complicated.  But I am still grateful and the outcome is a quality one.  I wanted vocals on my beats.  Met a handful of gifted artists who said yes, and the playlist of 'The Journey' came about over time.  I produced most of it in my living room, so I know I can do better.  I connected via social media with artists in America, did a couple of video calls with them, got along, sent them contracts, worked on the track(s), some wanted to change them, most wanted to write to them, and now I have signed a worldwide contract with a sync licensing company for 'The Journey'.

Who would be a dream artist to have feature on one of your songs?

That's a tricky question because all my dream artists aren't alive anymore. From the UK it would have to be Maverick Sabre or Jorja Smith. From the US it would have to be Jhene Aiko, Lady Gaga (a boy can dream!), Billie Eilish, Brandy because her music is eclectic and her voice is sensational, so consistent; Charlie Puth; I LOVE India.Arie, she's never changed and always been talented; Emily King is great; definitely would like to work with Fantasia who won American Idol because she is underrated.