| Jazz |
Eugenie Jones, one of the most beautiful voices in the United States, is about to release her new album, aptly titled after her first name, in just a few days. This is a highly traditional record that will undoubtedly garner universal praise. Yet, it is worth emphasizing that Eugenie Jones is also a consummate interpreter, slipping effortlessly into the soul of her songs. This ability to embody her music is the album’s most striking feature, further enhanced by custom-tailored arrangements.
Some might ask why I’m reviewing this album, knowing that I’m not usually a fan of cover albums or overly traditional works.
The answer is simple: I have a deep respect for tradition. And Eugenie Jones embodies it entirely—part of that lineage of vocalists in jazz who dazzle with their sheer talent, elevating everything they touch. The opening track of this album might not immediately captivate you, but that’s by design—the album follows a deliberate arc, moving from a restrained opening to a vocal crescendo, culminating in a fireworks-like explosion of artistry.
Renowned for expanding the audience for jazz, Jones weaves moving narratives into universal themes that reflect shared human experiences across geographic and cultural boundaries. Her versatile style and captivating performances invite listeners to connect with jazz in an unexpectedly accessible way. Since her 2013 debut, Black Lace Blue Tears, Eugenie Jones has established herself as a formidable presence in the jazz world, captivating audiences with her evocative storytelling and poignant vocal talent. With this sixth album and 32 original compositions to her name, Eugenie further cements her reputation as a standout artist. The album features thirteen tracks, blending original compositions with reimagined renditions of jazz standards and soul classics.
And therein lies the paradox of this record: its broad appeal. While such an approach might seem daunting with less skilled artists, Jones’s expertise wins you over instantly. She carries a touch of Donna Summer and Whitney Houston at their finest—a rare ability to balance universal charm with artistic depth. Jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike are drawn to Jones’s vocal style and sincere compositions, which resonate intimately with listeners’ own experiences.
Writer Charles Mudede aptly observes, “Eugenie Jones makes her audience feel jazz. She is an emotive and captivating song stylist who charms and conquers her listeners irresistibly.” I can only echo these sentiments, which seem perfectly accurate. Artists like Eugenie Jones, who breathe life into this vocal tradition, are rare today.
But Jones’s impact extends beyond her music. As the executive producer of the Seattle-based Jackson Street Jazz Walk for seven years, she has organized concerts and educational events celebrating the icons of the city’s historic African-American district. These initiatives, coupled with her charitable fundraising efforts, underscore her commitment to social causes.
Such dedication only deepens the admiration she inspires. At a time when many lament the absence of beauty and aesthetic refinement in contemporary music, Eugenie Jones stands as a rose without thorns, a beacon of artistry and tradition that many have been longing for.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, January 13th 2025
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