| Jazz |
Douyé is a wonderful singer who was the light of her father, who passed away when she was 11 years old. Jazz was the first music she heard, and although she had a successful career in R&B, in two superb albums, Douyé naturally returned to jazz, a “classic” jazz that stands out for its high-quality arrangements and a perfectly mastered voice that carries the qualitative essence of African American culture with undeniable authenticity!
“Daddy Said So” – album released in 2017 It is not surprising, for example, to be moved from beginning to end by the excellent solo on the intro, featuring the great bassist Ron Carter and Douyé on the track “Nature Boy.” The same can be said for the entire album, where a host of excellent musicians take turns accompanying Douyé, creating a well-deserved prestigious showcase that also allows the listener to take a fresh look at familiar songs. Believe me, talent oozes from every corner.
On “Daddy Said So,” there are no less than 14 revisited jazz standards supported by Kenny Barron, Ron Carter, Russell Malone, John Beasley, John Clayton, Roy McCurdy, and several other prestigious artists. It’s safe to say that this album is a page in the history of contemporary jazz, giving it a very special allure.
Yes, one can be impressed by such an album, and like all great artists, Douyé is very personable and human, and this is evident in all her masterful interpretations. This is why this album is classified as “essential” by the editors of Bayou Blue Radio and Paris-Move.
“Daddy Said So” is, of course, a beautiful tribute to her father, who introduced her to jazz and strongly encouraged her on the path she wanted to take.
“QUATRO” – 2019/2020 (Bossa Nova Deluxe) Once again, flawless! If you loved albums by Gezt/Gilberto like I did, Douyé, this admirable artist, skillfully revisits songs like “Blue Bossa,” “The Girl from Ipanema,” “Triste,” “Desafinado,” and many others, without ever copying the originals! Once again, Douyé knows how to make the most of the qualities of her voice, even adding a touch of comedy. It’s magnificent, and the magic works on every track, with once again a group of musicians that will leave you spellbound, including the delightful presence of Romero Libambo, Manolo Badrena, Duduka Da Foncesca, Angelo Metz, and many others.
Vocal perfection shines on the track “How Insensitive,” which is probably the best interpretation I have ever heard, just like Horace Silver’s “Song For My Father.” These songs may seem simple, but they require true complexity to be interpreted with honor. On another more rhythmic track by Horace Silver, Douyé reveals another equally shining facet of her artistry, which leaves us in awe. In short, as you may have understood, Douyé, “The Artist,” as she defines herself on Facebook, is an artist to follow, a great artist, a very great artist whom we hope will be quickly noticed by the biggest jazz festivals, because she has it all: her voice and her originality!
Naturally, the editors of Bayou Blue Radio and Paris-Move classify this fantastic “Quatro” as one of their “Essentials.”
Thierry De Clemensat
Correspondent in USA
Bayou Blue News – Bayou Blue Radio – Paris-Move
PARIS-MOVE, January 20th
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I recommend the CD format of the album “Daddy Said So” (rather than digital) which you can order HERE
The CD of the excellent “QUATRO” is available for order HERE