Following the acclaim of their 2023 fusion album “Reaching In,” the James McGowan Ensemble has returned with a captivating follow-up, “Reaching Out.” This 13-piece jazz and classical powerhouse builds on its predecessor with a fresh, emotional depth. “Reaching Out” remains deeply personal, extending the emotional journey of “Reaching In.” The album once again showcases spoken word poetry by Jamaal Amir Akbari, former Ottawa-based English Poet Laureate, who infuses the music with added layers of emotion and authenticity.
“Reaching Out” Tracklist
This album has the following 17 tracks:
- Personal Credo
- Imagine (Part 4)
- Reaching Out
- Minding My Time
- Alone in a Crowd
- Imagine (Part 5)
- Corean Poultry
- Blue Lament
- Pause
- Elegy
- Imagine (Part 6)
- Time to Rise (ft. Alex Moxon)
- Chaotic Good
- Journey Together
- My Story
- Reflection
- Song Without Words
Stream “Reaching Out” on Spotify.
The album’s theme revolves around navigating grief and discovering strength through community. The title track embodies this journey, guiding listeners through the stages of sorrow and recovery. The first five tracks reflect the efforts involved in personal well-being and growth, while also aiming to foster connections with the community by reaching out.
Listen or purchase via Bandcamp.
The next five tracks delve into our relationships with loved ones and inspirational figures, highlighting the profound sense of loss experienced when they pass away. These pieces convey both the sadness and grief of their absence, while also focusing on accepting their loss and honoring their lives.
The last seven tracks bring the journey to a close by celebrating the value of community engagement, despite its challenges, and reflecting on the process of self-acceptance.
Highlights of the album include the continuation of the “Imagine” series featuring Akbari’s poetry, the overture “Personal Credo,” the poignant saxophone solo “Elegy,” and a reflective tribute to fusion icon Chick Corea titled “Corean Poultry.”
While “Reaching Out” carries a more raw edge compared to its predecessor, it remains rich in melody and profound emotion, offering a compelling and relatable exploration of personal growth and connection.Top of Form
More Info About James McGowan Ensemble
The James McGowan Ensemble is a 13-piece group based in Canada’s National Capital Region, known for a dynamic blend of jazz, classical, and spoken word. The ensemble features three notable quartets: the Ottawa-based Modasaurus, Quebec’s Quatuor Despax, and a dynamic quartet of horn players led by Ottawa Jazz Festival Artistic Director Petr Cancura, with Mike Tremblay on tenor and soprano saxes, Mark Ferguson on trombone, and JUNO Award-winner Ed Lister on trumpet.
James McGowan, a pianist, composer, and educator, is known for his work in jazz and classical music. He leads the Modasaurus quartet and has released several critically acclaimed albums. In 2022, he received a grant from the Canada Council for the Arts to create “Reaching In” and “Reaching Out,” his fifth and sixth albums.
Quatuor Despax, formed in 2003 by siblings Cendrine, Jean, Maxime, and Valérie Despax, is a prominent string quartet performing regularly in the Ottawa-Gatineau area and internationally, with additional contributions from violist Olivier Philippe-Auguste and cellist Cal McGowan.
Popular for its grand sound and intricate compositions, the ensemble continues to impress the music lovers across the world.
Here are some quick links to help you learn more about James McGowan Ensemble and their work:
* Official website * Facebook * Instagram * Spotify
* Bandcamp * James McGowan Ensemble on YouTube * James McGowan on YouTube
