The Punk Shirley Bassey of Jazz

10 MP3 Songs in this album (43:51) !
Related styles: JAZZ: Crossover Jazz, POP: Pop Underground



Details:
The âpunk Shirley Basseyâ of jazz Yots.Kâs intriguing debut album, fire & water, perfectly captures her vibrant vocal swing with attitude, as previously appreciated in her live performances, and will challenge perceptions of the contemporary jazz vocalist.

As an Afro-Grecian living in London, Yots.K has a rich mix of influences to draw from - from the Greek rebetika, so close to the American blues, to Latin and African pulsations. She progressed from Elvis to admiring a range of early jazz singers and musicians, in particular Nina Simone, Sarah Vaughn, Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis; the story they had to tell and how they told it was the greatest influence.

Today, Yots.Kâs inspirations come from closer to home, namely the lush, diverse talent she hears in the current British jazz scene, thrilling music right here on our doorstep that tips its hat to the legends of American jazz while bursting with its own energy and distinctive identity. The unconventional and provocative British art scene - with Gilbert & George as favourites - is also a continuous source of stimulation, and fire & waterâs album artwork is Yots.Kâs bold homage to the duoâs work.

Yots.K was first seduced into the jazz persuasion whilst dealing blackjack in an illegal club in South Africa to the soundtrack of the club ownerâs extensive jazz collection. Even getting arrested for keeping a gambling house couldn't dampen her love of the music - in fact, it just added to the romance of it all.

A common perception of jazz is of the smoky, gambling gin joints of yesteryear and for Yots.K this was definitely an attraction; but thankfully her education didnât end there. It continued in London where sheâs become known for her work behind the scenes in jazzland. Meeting musicians, hearing them play and learning from them, she took the bold step to join their ranks, starting at open mic nights before progressing to gigs with her own trio. She has performed in Glasgow, France and Greece as well as all over London.

Working with Jonathan Gee has brought out Yots' true voice. Creating music in an environment where she can explore and take risks has been liberating. Gee's keen intellect and astonishing musical skills are matched by his open-minded attitude to music. Yotsâ personal hero, Jonathan Gee has become her regular pianist and mentor â a relationship which bears fruit with the release of her debut album â fire & water.

The Quartet was formed a year ago with the addition of master musicians Larry Bartley & Enzo Zirilli who complement and enhance both the music and attitude of the band with their expertise and integrity.