Powerhouse, JUNO-nominated Canadian vocalist DENIELLE BASSELS proudly presents her third original studio album, It Goes Like This. A testament to her singing and songwriting prowess, It Goes Like Thisis like a lush, cinematic journey, or an epic vintage novel. Under dim lights, with a bottomless glass of cognac, it invites listeners into a space where every note and lyric tell a tale. With vintage style, yet contemporary sound, it offers unique music that pushes the boundaries of jazz, and jazz songwriting. Performing with an eight-piece band, Bassels celebrates the album launch on February 13th at Toronto’s Drom Taberna, 458 Queen St West. Doors open at 7 pm, an opener at 8 pm and Bassels goes on at 9 pm. Tickets are $22.63 at Eventbrite.
With her stellar band, Bassels confidently takes centre stage, weaving a tapestry of melodies with warm, velvety tones, and electrifying belting. She expands her horizons this time, delving deeper into production and arrangement, joining forces – at times – with acclaimed songwriters like Gemini winner Lily Frost, versatile producer/violinist/arranger Drew Jurecka, and, for the first time, her sister Amber Bassels,
Listeners are treated to diverse musical landscapes, and allowed access to the heart of Bassels' artistic expression. She paints the musical canvas of her current moment with emotions, thoughts, and reflections gathered in her past, showcasing the transformative power of music.
Buckle up for a wild ride through thrilling originals, soft melodies, and a fusion of jazz, swing, folk, and even country, reflecting Bassels' rich and varied musical upbringing. Each note carries the weight of grit, wisdom, and grace, creating a space where authenticity reigns supreme, differences are celebrated, and music becomes a powerful vessel for personal yet universal storytelling. It Goes Like This is epic, unapologetic, and spellbinding.
From a husky whisper to a full-on scream, and through that cycle again, "Lighthouse" builds to a wildly frenetic peak of interpolated piano (by Ewen Farncombe) and violin (by Drew Jurecka) solos, reflecting the intense internal turmoil in Bassels' soul.
Sassy, brassy, and bold, "Woman Like Me" is a down-and-dirty blues, and a declaration of independence for all women. Co-written with her sister Amber, it's propelled by the exuberant soloing of pianist Ewen Farncombe, and the wild, growling trumpet of Alexis Baro.
Bassels transforms the jazz standard "Strange Love" into a powerful, romantic ballad about forgiveness and moving on. In a masterful vocal performance, she infuses the lush, piano-driven arrangement with deep, heartfelt emotion.
"Songbird" finds Bassels foraying into a gorgeous folk ballad with country vibes. In a tender-hearted vocal performance, she tells the story of a joyful songbird by day who becomes a lonesome wolf by night. It captures the emotional turmoil of losing a troubled partner, and the burden of mourning in silence.
"Emmêlée" is a tightly percolating, exuberant romp of Django jazz, about the rollercoaster of crises people face when dealing with clinical depression. The French lyrics were transcribed and re-created by Québec's Poet Laureate of 2022, Paul Ruban. Depression never sounded like so much fun.
"Chasin' Butterflies" – with its sultry vocals and gently evocative instrumentation, recalling the haunting melodies of Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Amy Winehouse – explores the struggle of trying to break free from toxic love patterns, and learning to trust oneself after enduring repeated heartbreak.
"Gunna Be Hell" is an anti-wedding-proposal song that brings a sassy, playful twist to a classic '50s vibe, with a catchy piano melody and Andrews Sisters-type harmonies. It's based on a true story of a disastrous proposal from a long-term boyfriend, leading to the realization that marriage isn't in the cards.
"Winter Dream," written during a retreat in Northern Ontario, was inspired by the sight of a three-foot blanket of snow sparkling in the morning sun. The serene, captivating melody blends the smooth rhythms of bossa nova with the influences of Laufey, Liane La Havas, and Astrud Gilberto.
"Stone Love" is a slow ballad full of hypnotic vibes about the magic of pure, everlasting love. Inspired by a conversation with a friend about what it means to find true love. It’s like it was always there, from eons ago, and it just grows relentlessly, until it’s strong and immovable as a mountain.
Bassels' take on the classic American Songbook standard, "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," offers a super-swinging version, recorded in a single take at the end of a seven-hour recording session. It hits all the right notes and grooves.
Toronto-born indie-swing sensation and 2024 JUNO nominee Denielle Bassels, captivates audiences with her potent fusion of jazz manouche, blues, folk, and pop. Denielle's uniquely powerful voice, reminiscent of Ella Fitzgerald and Norah Jones, delivers solid heart punches and unforgettable performances. From sweet Doris Day-esque melodies to the ferocity of Big Mama Thornton, Denielle's vocal versatility, coupled with her natural storytelling flair, creates an enchanting concert experience that lingers in the minds of her listeners.
Denielle’s journey as an artist reflects her resilience and commitment to her craft. She has weathered industry challenges and personal trials with a sense of humor and fortitude, using every experience as fuel for her creative expression. Her storytelling transcends genres, offering something for everyone.
Drawing inspiration from her experiences, Denielle continues to push boundaries, seeking out new collaborations and experimenting with different sounds and textures. Her work defies easy categorization but is always grounded in authenticity, emotional depth, and a deep respect for the jazz tradition.
As she prepares for the release of It Goes Like This, Bassels is poised to cement her status as a visionary artist in the modern jazz scene. With a JUNO nomination under her belt and a rapidly growing international fan base, she is a force to be reckoned with, one whose voice and vision are impossible to ignore.
For more information please visit any of the links below or Bassels’ website.
