Triple Grammy winner Samara Joy announces new studio album Portrait

Three-time Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Samara Joy has announced her new studio album, Portrait, which is released on Verve Records on 11 October. Emerging from the crucible of an unrelenting global touring schedule, the recording finds Joy channelling her success into the pursuit of musical exploration. Portrait, the follow up to her 2022 breakout sophomore album Linger Awhile, offers a snapshot of the 24-year-old Bronx native’s growth not only as a once-in-a-generation vocalist but also as songwriter, arranger and band leader.

Co-produced by Joy and veteran trumpeter/bandleader and multi-Grammy winner Brian Lynch, the 8-song collection showcases a synergistic approach to arranging and the intimate, soulful chemistry she’s developed with her touring band, an egalitarian octet featuring trumpeter Jason Charos, trombonist Donavan Austin, saxophonists David Mason and Kendric McCallister, pianist Connor Rohrer, bassist Felix Moseholm and drummer Evan Sherman. Joy’s role in the ensemble is multifaceted, balancing her prominence as a vocalist with her contributions as a musical collaborator. “I’m often the fifth voice, the fifth horn,” she explains. “I hope listeners will see that I’m a musician too.”

The album was tracked in streamlined sessions — just two or three takes of each tune — at one of jazz’s most hallowed sites, Van Gelder Studio. Portrait highlights Joy’s prowess as a lyricist, with new arrangements that meld her thoughtful lyrics with music by Charles Mingus, Sun Ra and more. The album also features vibrant interpretations of standards, including new arrangements ‘You Stepped Out of a Dream’ (out now) and ‘Autumn Nocturne’.

Explaining the album’s concept Joy said: “A well of inspiration that never runs dry because of the different streams that flow in, constantly pouring into the main source. That’s what comes to mind when I think of this project and the musicians who created it with me. Eight musicians, eight fresh perspectives and musical backgrounds - all joined together in a context designed for growth and exploration. Designed to put our pens and minds to work creating music inspired by many but still uniquely our own. Because of the incredible depth of musicianship and creativity infused into the sound of this band, I’m honoured to be able to present Portrait, shaped after a year of development and revision on the road.”

Watch the ‘You Stepped Out Of A Dream’ below and for more info visit samarajoy.komi.io