Jamie Shew, a distinguished jazz vocalist, songwriter, and arranger, has long understood the transformative power of music. Following the loss of her husband, bassist Roger Shew, to cancer, she channeled her grief into her 2018 album Eyes Wide Open, a poignant collection that traced the arc of their relationship and her journey through sorrow. Critic Scott Yanow praised her for a "strong, clear and attractive voice," noting her comfort across registers and tempos.
Now, with her latest release, Spicy, Classy, (and a little) Sassy, Shew embarks on a vibrant exploration of love in all its forms—joyful, messy, and resilient. The album features 12 tracks, including nine reimagined jazz standards and three original compositions, two penned by Shew herself. The originals, "Enough" and "Letters from You," delve into themes of modern life's chaos and familial bonds, respectively.
Collaborating with an ensemble of esteemed musicians—pianist Jeremy Siskind, Hammond B3 and Rhodes player Kait Dunton, guitarist Mike Scott, bassist Lyman Medeiros, and drummer Mark Ferber—Shew infuses each track with fresh arrangements and emotional depth. Vocalist Mario Jose contributes background vocals on select pieces, adding further richness to the album's texture.
Beyond her recording career, Shew is a dedicated educator, having taught at Fullerton College for over two decades. She leads courses in vocal jazz styling, improvisation, and music theory, and directs ensembles within the college's acclaimed vocal jazz program. Her commitment to nurturing young talent extends to her roles as an adjudicator and clinician at jazz festivals nationwide.
Spicy, Classy, (and a little) Sassy stands as a testament to Shew's resilience and artistic evolution, offering listeners a heartfelt journey through the multifaceted landscape of love.
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