"Esperanza," bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding's debut on Heads Up International, is set for worldwide release on May 20, 2008. Armed with uncanny instrumental chops, a siren voice that spans three languages, and composing and arranging skills that weave together the best elements of the old-school with the progressive, this 23-year-old has crafted a debut album that takes a completely fresh and refreshing approach to jazz by borrowing from the rich traditions of soul, pop, world music and so much more.
Esperanza is joined in the studio by a crew of A-list session players, including flamenco guitar virtuoso Niño Josele, percussionist Jamey Haddad, drummer Horacio "El Negro" Hernández, saxophonist Donald Harrison and several other seasoned talents - all of whom collectively serve as further evidence of the kind of creative energy and magnetism that she radiates.
Never mind that in 2005--at the age of 20--Esperanza Spalding became the youngest instructor in the history of Berklee College of Music. It's what's on wax that counts--or CD, or MP3, if preferred. On Esperanza, her debut set for Heads Up International, Spalding presents a prowess on the acoustic bass that many bassists with far more experience could be inspired by. Need proof? Check out "Mela," on which Spalding's chops on the upright are matched (if not exceeded) by her tangerine-and-honey vocals. There is a lilt in her voice that, to be sure, puts the blind optimism of her youth front and center. But who needs another jaded jazz singer? This multi-lingual set starts off with the mellow, mid-tempo "Ponta De Areia." From there Spalding winds her way through an appropriate group of mostly self-penned songs that are simultaneously sweet, commanding, calming, and intense. Of particular note are the hopeful "Espera," and her take on "Cuerpo y Alma" (the jazz standard "Body & Soul" in Spanish). And yes, purists, she can scat. Her name, Esparanza, is the Spanish word for "hope." Here's hope for a bright future and satisfying career following this wonderfully refreshing album. --Eric C.P. Martin
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Esperanza:
Wow - Letterman coined her the coolest guest ever on his show and I agree. Great find for those who love jazz with an infrequent nod to pop. All in all, latin jazz at its best and with the ability to appeal to many music lovers of other genre.
Overrated, Overproduced, And Overhyped:
I'm not impressed with this recording at all. Shame on Concord for promoting such a talentless hack. The album is marred by a way too slick production. There are jazz musicians who have been dead for 30 to 40 years that deserve more acclaim and promotion than this waste of space. There's only one good thing this album is good for: a drink coaster. This album is all hype. No real jazz musicianship here. If you want to check out a real jazz vocalist check out Shirley Horn, Diana Krall, or Cassandra... more info
Absolute Bliss!:
This album has been my favorite buy in 2008. Besides the fact that she is very young, she gives insight for what "Good" music is now and will be in the world of jazz. She gives new breath to the jazz industry, and she is the best solo basist around second to Marcus Miller. The album took me in a direction that I did not expect, deserviing "absolute bliss" in my eyes and ears.
What a New Inspiration to Jazz:
Ms.Esperanza Spaulding, Your CD is truly a breathe of Fresh Air.....I heard your song precious home on my Direct TV Jazz Channel and then in Joffery's Coffee Shop. Your voice is a beautiful instrument that compliments your musicianship and craft truly unique and a great inspiration to jazz music. so I bought the CD and I was jsut amazed and blown away at such great music....WOW!!!!
