Denielle Bassels
IT GOES LIKE THIS- ALBUM RELEASE MEDIA PAGE
Denielle Bassels Shines with Sultry Swagger
in 'Woman Like Me,'
the Second Single from It Goes Like This
Denielle's Waterfall RELEASE SCHEDULE:
Discover the whimsical and beautiful world of Denielle Bassels LISTEN HERE:
ALBUM CREDITS
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FILE UNDER:
Jazz, pop, folk, cinematic, film noire, swing
SOUNDS LIKE/FOR FANS OF:
Ella Fitzgerald, Amy Winehouse, Esthero,
Feist, Neko Case, Bessie Smith, Nora Jones
Songwriting:
Gunna Be Hell, Songbird, Winter Dream- Denielle Bassels
Lighthouse- D. Bassels, Extra Lyrics: L. Frost
Woman Like Me - D. Bassels, A. Bassels
Stone Love - D. Bassels, L. Frost, C. Bartos, A. Frost, C. Bartos
Chasin' Butterflies - D. Bassels, M. Freedman, R. Priest
Emmêlée- D. Bassels, French Lyrics: Paul Ruban
Strangelove - Koop
Acoustic Guitar: Andy Mac (Emêlée)
Electric Guitar- Julien Bradley Combs (Lighthouse, Winter Bossa, Woman Like Me)
Electric Guitar - Nathan Hiltz (Songbird, Gunna Be Hell, Chasin' Butterflies)
Electric Guitar - Eric St. Laurent - (Strangelove)
Upright Bass: George Koller
Upright Bass: Robert Lee (Emêlée)
Clarinet: Drew Jurecka
Trumpet: Alexis Baro
Violin, Viola: Drew Jurecka
Accordion/Bandoneon: Drew Jureka
Drums and percussion: Davide DiRenzo - (Songbird, Gunna Be Hell, Chasin' Butterflies, Stone Love, Strangelove)
Drums and percussion; Andrew Scott (Woman Like Me, Lighthouse, Winter Bossa, I Can't Give You Anything But Love)
Background Vocals: Bridgette Anderson, Denielle Bassels
Piano/Organ: Ewen Farncombe
Production:
Denielle Bassels, Thom McKay, Drew Jurecka
String Arrangements: Drew Jurecka
Photo credit: Jen Squires
Graphic Design: Maxine Kryzaniwsky
© (P) Denielle Bassels SOCAN 2024
ISRC CA9KS2400004
DSP LINK: https://ffm.to/lighthousejazz
© (P) Denielle Bassels SOCAN 2024
UPC : TBD
DSP LINK: TBD
Download Assets
ABOUT THE ALBUM
Denielle Bassels Unveils Her Third Studio Album "It Goes Like This"
Toronto, ON – Denielle Bassels, a commanding force in the Canadian music scene, proudly presents her third original studio album, "It Goes Like This," less than a year after her Juno-nominated second studio album, “Little Bit a’ Love,” released in late spring 2023. A testament to her elevated vocal and songwriting prowess, “It Goes Like This” is a lush, cinematic journey that transports listeners to a world reminiscent of their favourite epic vintage novel. Each track weaves a story under dim lights with a never-empty glass of cognac, inviting listeners into a space where every note and lyric tell a tale. Denielle's storytelling is vintage in style yet contemporary in sound, creating a unique blend that pushes the boundaries of jazz and ushers in a new era of jazz songwriting.
With her stellar band accompanying her, she confidently takes centre stage, weaving a tapestry of melodies with warm, velvety tones and electrifying belting. Denielle expands her horizons, delving deeper into production and arrangement, joining forces, at times, with acclaimed songwriters like Gemini winner Lily Frost, versatile producer/violinist/arranger Drew Jurecka, and, for the first time, her sister, Amber Bassels, who contributed to the track "Woman Like Me )” This song, is a powerful anthem about embracing one’s identity against the standards of society.
"Lighthouse," written and arranged by Denielle, is a cinematic opus about facing one's fears, after great failure and hurt. The tempo changes throughout the song signify the constant battling we do in life, conquering new fears and reaching new heights, each battle refining our being and preparing us for the next level up.
Denielle strikes up a second-time collaboration with Grammy-nominated Drew Jurecka, who co-produced many of the songs with Denielle, along with platinum-awarded Thom McKay, and explores new teammates like Vic Florencia. She switches up guitar for piano as the main harmonic instrument, played by two-time Juno nominee Ewen Farncombe, with guitar stylings by Nathan Hiltz, Eric St. Laurent, and George Koller on upright bass.
As the album unfolds, listeners are not only treated to a diverse musical landscape but are also given access to the very heart of Denielle Bassels' artistic expression. Her colourful past becomes a canvas upon which Denielle paints her emotions, thoughts, and reflections, showcasing the transformative power of music. Influences from Ella Fitzgerald and Dinah Washington blend seamlessly with folk, django jazz, folk, and even country, reflecting Denielle's rich and varied musical upbringing.
Special guests include Eric St. Laurent, Bridgette Anderson, and trumpet aficionado Alexis Baro. Most of the songs were recorded live off the floor in the studio, with some overdubs by Alexis, Drew, and Eric St. Laurent. The track "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" was a one-take at the end of a long studio session, adding a swingin' groove that earned it a spot as a bonus track.
So, buckle up for a wild ride through thrilling jazz originals, soft melodies, and a fusion of jazz, swing, and folk. As you immerse yourself in the tracks of "It Goes Like This," each note carries the weight of grit, wisdom, and grace, creating a space where authenticity reigns supreme, differences are celebrated, and music becomes a powerful vessel for personal and universal storytelling.
For media inquiries, please contact:
BEVERLY KRELLER : bev@speak-music.com
TRACK DESCRIPTIONS
1. Lighthouse (3:33) Dminor, 186bpm (varying), jazz, swing, folk
A cinematic jazz epic, blending Django Jazz, steampunk flair, and operatic drama. The track's eerie preamble leads into a high-energy sea battle of sound, with dramatic tempo shifts and a sweeping string arrangement by Grammy-nominated Drew Jurecka.
2. A Woman Like Me (2:47) Bb Major, 121bpm, jazz, swing, blues
"A Woman Like Me" is a powerful and sassy anthem inspired by her sister Amber Bassels who co-wrote the lyrics. This song is about embracing one's identity with confidence, regardless of size, color, or age, and daring to feel like a million bucks. The lyrics explore the idea of someone wanting to steal what makes you shine and take it for themselves, making it an empowering track for anyone ready to face any situation with strength and poise. This vibrant and bold song serves as a new anthem for women ready to hit the town or tackle any challenge, celebrating self-assuredness and inner radiance.
3. Stone Love (3:16) E minor, 115bpm jazz, smooth jazz, cinematic
Reminiscent of the snake in the jungle book with hypnotic vibes about the magic of pure love everlasting. Inspired by a conversation with a friend about what it means to find true love. It’s like it was always there, like a spell was cast eons ago and it just grows and grows until it’s as strong as mountain, immovable.
4. Chasin' Butterflies (3:24) Emin, 93bpm jazz, blues, swing
Whatever Lola Wants vibes, reminiscent of the haunting melodies of Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Amy Winehouse. This introspective track explores the struggle of breaking free from toxic love patterns, with the Bassels' realising the importance of trusting herself after enduring repeated heartbreak. With sultry vocals and evocative instrumentation.
5. Gunna Be Hell (3:25) F Major, 93bpm, pop, 50's, jazz
The anti wedding proposal song. brings a sassy, humorous twist to a classic 50's vibe, reminiscent of Buddy Holly meets Brittany Howard. Featuring a catchy melody and Andrews Sisters-type harmonies, this track tells the true story of a disastrous proposal from a long-term boyfriend, leading to the realisation that marriage isn't in the cards. The song's playful and spirited tone perfectly captures the mix of frustration and amusement in such a moment.
6. Songbird (3:47) Bb Major, 80bpm, folk, singer-songwriter, country, jazz
is a haunting track that blends folk, country, and jazz. Denielle's gripping narrative of losing her soulmate and having to hide the pain from world pulls at the heartstrings as it enchants. Featuring soft electric guitar and tender violins Denielle's vocals effortlessly shift from softness to intensity, this track draws listeners in with simplicity in its raw emotion.
7. Strange Love (4:17) Eminor, 114bpm, jazz, blues, folk
This rendition transforms the song into a powerful and romantic ballad about forgiveness and moving on. With a lush arrangement, rockabilly vibes from Eric St. Laurent on guitar. Bassels infuses the track with deep emotion, adding a new layer of intensity and heartfelt expression.
8. I Can't Give You Anything But Love (3:57) F Major, 92bpm, jazz, American Songbook, swing
A super swinging version of the American Songbook track, recorded in a single take at the end of a 7 hour recording session. This track hits all the notes and grooves.
9. Emmêlée (3:44) Ab Major, 75bpm, jazz, swing, ballad
A song about the rollercoaster of crises people face when dealing with clinical depression. French lyrics transcribed and recreated by Quebec Poet Laureate of 2022, Paul Ruban. The song is ecclectic, merging folk, swing and indie in a fun, and exhuberant romp. A surprisingly not uncomfortable journey through depression.
10. Winter Dream (3:23) A major, 112bpm, bossa nova, jazz
written during a winter retreat in Northern Ontario. Inspired by the breathtaking sight of a three-foot blanket of snow sparkling in the morning sun, this song transforms the snowy landscape into a billowy, fresh sea, inviting listeners on a dreamy escape. The serene and captivating melody blends the smooth rhythms of bossa nova with influences from Laufey, Liane La Havas, and Astrud Gilberto
1. October 25, 2024 Lighthouse, SINGLE
2. January 10, 2025 A Woman Like Me SINGLE
3. Feb. 8, 2024 Songbird, SINGLE
4. February 14, 2024 It Goes Like This ALBUM
ABOUT DENIELLE BASSELS
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Toronto-born jazz vocalist and songwriter Denielle Bassels' career in music began when a dream sent her overseas to Lausanne, Switzerland, where she sought respite from a tumultuous era in her life. She arrived as an au pair (nanny) and left two years later as a professional jazz singer, singing in some of the country's top Jazz clubs.
"The little boy I looked after, Osvaldo, took lessons at a prestigious jazz school called "Ejma" and it was there that I met teachers and students who showed me the jazz caverns and music scene. They got me up to sing one night at a jam, and I was suddenly a jazz singer with my own combo doing shows. I never had any training, so it was a strange and exhilarating adventure."
Denielle yearned for something more, a deeper foundation to create. So after two years of working and performing in Europe, she returned to Canada and auditioned for Humber College's contemporary music program. There, she found her new band and was holding residencies at some of Toronto's finest jazz clubs before long. Her country may have changed, but the captivated audiences remained; Denielle quickly made a name for herself as a vocalist and performer. Still, she was looking for more and soon fell in love with songwriting. Her first original song, "Cool Cool Water," went on to win Grand Prize in the International John Lennon Song Competition, while later, five more originals went on to place in the finals. With these accolades, she was awarded grants from the Toronto Arts Council and the Canada Council of The Arts to fund her first full-length album, "What About Wool Wishbags," released in early 2017. The album hit #1 on iTunes and was voted the top 5 albums of 2017 by Jazz FM 91.1. Full of whimsy and charm, it is a story-laden volume of original music set in scenes of swing, indie, folk, and blues. Her 2nd full original Album, Little Bit a' Love, was nominated for JUNO award in the Vocal Jazz Album of the Year category in 2024.
"Bassels shines and establishes herself as one of the most intriguing jazz/pop singer-songwriters on the current scene."
- Lesley Mitchell-Clarke, WHOLENOTE Magazine
Now set to release her FACTOR funded follow up album, just a year later, It Goes Like This will show a whole new dark side of Denielle as she grows into a new pocket of storytelling, staying with the whimsical, but looking out into the rabbit hole with a darker kaleidescope.
“There is something about the imaginative way in which Denielle thinks, crafts and creates music that is undeniably her own.” - DANI ELWELL, JAZZFM.91