Monday, August 14, 2023

New Music: Rita Ray / Helen Bruner & Terry Jones

Rita Ray - A Life Of It's Own

“A Life of Its Own” is a soul and R&B album, that might just become as timeless as a Bill Withers’ LP. The first single “Love Ain’t The Same” enjoyed success, winning the “Song of the Year” at the Estonian Music Awards in ’22. Straight to B-rotation on Jazz.fm, “No Greater Love” was released secondly. Rita Ray’s sophmore album blends orchestral strings arranged by Miss Ray herself. Add a touch of Rhodes, Clavinet and a vintage sound that’s authentic yet contemporary. The production duties were taken on by Future Classics. “A Life of Its Own” will be out on CD, vinyl and digitally via Funk Embassy Records.Since her début “Old Love Will Rust” in 2019, Rita Ray has enjoyed a steady rise on the contemporary soul scene. Her songwriting, voice and grand productions in studio as well as live setting are a thing of beauty. While spurring comparisons to the likes of Aretha Franklin, Bill Withers and Duffy, one can safely say she’s found her unique aesthetic. The small-town damsel’s got a way to make you go through joy and pain. It was recognized by the Estonian Jazz Awards, handing over the “Young Jazz Talent of the Year” accolade to Rita in 2021. The crown jewel of Estonian R&B and soul, with her first-class band, is guaranteed to provide a journey on tape or before a crowd.

Helen Bruner & Terry Jones – 2nd Overture

The dynamic duo revealed that the title of the album represents a new chapter in their lives after experiencing significant loss. Jones’ mother, the late soul icon Linda Jones who recorded the R&B classic “Hypnotized”, passed away at age 27 when Terry was a child. Bruner’s mother, who played a pivotal role in the women’s lives and career, also passed away. With this latest loss, they had to learn how to navigate this new normal, without a mothers’ guidance and support.“In essence, it is as if we are starting over with a different heart and mind creatively, not having my mom as our anchor – hence the title 2nd Overture,” Bruner said.The album features 11 soulful tracks that showcase powerful harmonies and electrifying performances. On majority of 2nd Overture, Bruner plays almost all the musical parts. “Ever Stop To Think”, features guest keyboardist, Junius Bervine (Lauren Hill, Anthony Hamilton, Pharrell); “Livin’ You” features 6x Grammy® nominated drummer, Marcus Baylor (The Baylor Project, Yellow Jackets); and Grammy® winning Philadelphia Chamber Orchestra violinist, Alexandra Cutler-Fetkewicz, is featured on the title track. The album, produced and written by Bruner & Jones, showcases their incredible vocal range and musical versatility – from soul-stirring ballads to up-tempo beats. “We poured our hearts and souls into this album, and we hope music fans will feel that when they listen to it,” said Jones.

Source: www.firstexperiencerecords.com

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