John Korbel | "Falling Feels Like Flying"

Jazz is a genre deeply rooted in American culture and John Korbel has emerged as a fresh and vibrant voice. His upcoming album, Falling Feels Like Flying, is a blending of the timeless appeal of Michael Bublé with the sophisticated songwriting reminiscent of legends like Sting, Donald Fagen, and Al Jarreau. Set to release on January 19th, 2024, this album encapsulates a journey that transcends genre boundaries, offering a rich and varied listening experience.

The creation of this album began in April 2022 with the track “First Christmas Loving You.” This marked the start of a creative synergy between Korbel and Mark Falchook, an accomplished session keyboardist and producer. Falchook’s previous collaborations with jazz greats like Bob James and Patti Austin brought a unique depth to the project. The recording sessions, held in a studio owned by a former Disney employee in Orlando, were nothing short of magical, often described as “lightning in a bottle.”

Orlando’s unexpected jazz culture, fueled by talented musicians from Disney, Cirque du Soleil, and Universal Studios, played a crucial role in shaping the album’s sound. This unique environment allowed Korbel to discover his producer and the gifted studio musicians who added a fascinating new dimension to his music.

The ten-track album explores themes like contemporary long-distance romance and flying, showcasing Korbel’s dedication to a classic recording process, including the use of a live drummer. His musical journey, which began in Philadelphia, is marked by a lifelong dedication to the arts, highlighted by performances at events like the 2002 International Song of Peace in Tipperary, Ireland, and opening for renowned acts including Jay Leno and Blood Sweat & Tears.

Korbel’s return to music in 2017, after a two-decade hiatus, signifies his commitment and passion. His 2020 single, “Bourbon Street Taps,” gained significant traction, laying the groundwork for this ambitious album. Falling Feels Like Flying is a collection of songs with a narrative that showcases Korbel’s ability to weave stories through music, highlighted by his unique blend of jazz-pop that appeals to a broad audience.

As the release date approaches, there is a growing sense of excitement and anticipation. John Korbel, along with the exceptional talent he’s surrounded himself with, is set to bring a new flavor to the jazz genre, inviting listeners to experience the transformative power of music. This album, a culmination of perseverance, collaboration, and sheer musicality, is poised to become a landmark in the jazz world, echoing the sentiment that indeed, sometimes, falling does feel like flying.