Claire Martin | Almost In Your Arms

Claire Martin is widely regarded as one of today’s most accomplished and inspiring jazz singers. This sentiment is echoed by jazz writers, reviewers, broadcasters, and audiences alike. Always seeking new projects and inspirations, Claire has produced remarkable recordings in recent years.

In 2023, her album I Watch You Sleep celebrated her close friend, the legendary composer-pianist Richard Rodney Bennett, featuring orchestral arrangements by pianist Scott Dunn. The previous year, her collaboration with big band arranger Callum Au, titled Songs & Stories, highlighted jazz standards and classic songs. In 2019, she released Bumpin’, showcasing the compositions of Wes Montgomery with a quartet led by Scottish guitarist Jim Mullen.

Now, in her latest album, Almost in Your Arms, Claire reunites with her highly experienced Swedish trio: pianist Martin Sjöstedt, bassist Niklas Fernqvist, and drummer Daniel Fredriksson. This trio accompanied her on her 2019 Linn album, Believin’ It, and performed to sold-out audiences at Ronnie Scott’s Club in London, as well as in Sweden and Madrid.

In addition to her trio, Claire has invited several exceptional guest musicians: Swedish saxophonist Karl-Martin Almqvist, American vibraphonist Joe Locke, British guitarist Mark Jaimes, pianist Nikki Iles (who plays accordion on this album), and US organist/pianist Charlie Wood (featured on vocals). Producer James McMillan contributes on trumpet, flugelhorn, keyboards, and programming.

On Almost in Your Arms, Claire’s enthusiasm for fresh inspiration shines through, as she curates a selection of songs that resonate deeply with her, reflecting her diverse interests in various sub-genres of popular music and jazz.

With 37 years of professional singing experience, Claire has performed worldwide since she was just 19. She has amassed numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, proving that some artists continue to grow and excel. If you need proof of her talent, listen to this extraordinary album.

Personnel:

Claire Martin – vocals

Martin Sjöstedt – piano & keyboards

Niklas Fernqvist – bass

Daniel Fredriksson – drums

James McMillan – percussion, horns, additional keyboards & programming

Karl-Martin Almqvist – saxophone

Nikki Iles – accordion

Mark Jaimes – guitar

Joe Locke – vibraphone

Charlie Wood – guest vocals

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