Peter Campbell Releases Haunted Melody: A Lush, Introspective Vocal Jazz Journey

American-Canadian vocalist and producer Peter Campbell returns with Haunted Melody, a deeply personal and musically rich album that blends jazz, Latin influences, and traditional pop aesthetics. Co-arranged with renowned guitarist Reg Schwager, the album follows Campbell’s critically acclaimed Old Flames Never Die, which was named one of JazzTimes’ Top 40 Albums of 2020.

Haunted Melody brings together an impressive roster of Canadian jazz talent, alongside American tenor saxophonist Joel Frahm and Portuguese composer-producer Ernesto Leite. While the album’s musical textures are sophisticated and worldly, the emotional core is intimate: the project’s release follows the passing of Campbell’s parents in 2024, the end of a long-term relationship, and his return to Canada after living in Portugal.

The music on Haunted Melody took root during the isolation of the pandemic, becoming a sonic reflection of personal loss, love, and rediscovery. At its heart, it is a remembrance—of a relationship, of family, and of time spent in Portugal, where Campbell immersed himself in Brazilian music and Lusophone culture. This exploration is reflected in the inclusion of three compositions by Brazilian composers and a rhythmic and harmonic language that nods to Latin America and Southern Europe.

While Campbell’s style has often been described as “Traditional Pop,” his interpretation of the genre stretches to include jazz balladry, French chanson, bossa nova, and cinematic orchestration. The result is a fluid, emotionally resonant album that pays tribute to memory and melody in equal measure.

Haunted Melody features arrangements and instrumental work by some of Canada’s finest: trumpeter Kevin Turcotte, flutist Bill McBirnie, pianist Adrean Farrugia, bassist Ross MacIntyre, and percussionist Alan Hetherington. Guitar textures come from Reg Schwager and Michael Occhipinti, who also contributes Puerto Rican cuatro, mandolin, and electric guitar on various tracks. Subtle orchestral and percussion programming by Ernesto Leite and drum programming from John ‘Beetle’ Bailey add depth to the album’s sonic palette, blending the organic with the electronic in understated ways.

With Haunted Melody, Peter Campbell continues to affirm his place as a modern interpreter of vocal jazz—one who honors tradition while carving a personal and stylistically adventurous path.

Release Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
Website: www.petercampbellmusic.com

Featured Musicians on Haunted Melody:

• Peter Campbell – Vocals

• Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet, Flugelhorn

• Bill McBirnie – Flute, Alto Flute

• Joel Frahm – Tenor Saxophone

• Adrean Farrugia – Piano, Fender Rhodes

• Reg Schwager – Archtop and Nylon String Guitar

• Michael Occhipinti – Electric Guitar, Cuatro Puertorriqueño (Track 5), Mandolin (Track 7)

• Ross MacIntyre – Bass

• Ethan Ardelli – Drums

• Alan Hetherington – Percussion

• Ernesto Leite – Orchestral Programming & Percussion Programming (Track 10)

• John ‘Beetle’ Bailey – Drum Programming (Track 6)