Music news: Melorie Jane, acclaimed South African jazz pianist generating a buzz with a new CD, Hold the Stars

Exciting news is that acclaimed jazz pianist Melorie Jane (31) is launching her new CD, Hold the Stars with a concert tour in the Cape, from May 2-31, 2024. Hard copies of the CD will be on sale at the launch and the album will be available digitally on major streaming sites. The award winning pianist (31) has built up an extensive fan base, wowed by her distinctive and innovative arrangements and vocals. She is a composer and vocalist and collaborates extensively with top jazz musicians. For her May 2024 CD launch and tour, she will be playing with her quartet at four venues with some of Cape Town’s finest musicians such as Bonga Mosola (trumpet), Danél Dippenaar (saxophone and flute) and Chanté Phillips (drums).  Chadleigh Gower on bass will alternate with Bonolo Nkoane on drums and Mark Lynch on saxophone at some venues. Read on for more. Info as supplied:

Melorie Jane – acclaimed South African jazz pianist – generating a buzz with a new CD, Hold the Stars!

Award-winning Melorie Jane (31) is set to thrill music lovers with her new CD launch as she performs in Cape Town from May 2-31, 2024.

“This album is a culmination of my experiences and engagements with God, serving as a source of inspiration for its creation. Through a rich tapestry of depictions, stories, and concepts, Hold the Stars explores the idea of living in full love and freedom,” says Melorie Jane about her second album.

“In crafting this album, I invited the players to express themselves emotively, fostering a collaborative environment where music becomes a means of profound interaction.”

“My appreciation for the fellow musicians on this album knows no bounds. Together, we have shared countless performances and walked a musical journey marked by challenges and growth. Their ability to bring new, interesting material to the table continually pushes me to evolve as an artist. Each musician brings their unique signature, drawing from their experiences performing on stages both in South Africa and abroad,” explains Melorie Jane.

Hold the Stars, is a fusion of distinct South African jazz influences, evoking a sense of home, while also traversing the realms of film music and contemporary jazz.

“Hold the Stars is more than just a collection of songs – it is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and the human spirit. Through its heartfelt melodies and diverse influences, I hope this album resonates deeply with listeners and leaves a lasting impression on their hearts and minds.”

Artists featured on this thrilling album is Melorie Jane on piano and vocals, Ntsikelelo Jack Mcwabe on trumpet, saxophonist Lehlohonolo Ntsoko, Gilbert Sithole on bass and Thato Tswai on drums. Sean Manley was responsible for Sound and Mastering.

Melorie Jane has been praised for her energetic and original arrangements. Her debut album- More or Less (2021) – a fusion of contemporary South African jazz, was nominated in five musical categories at the Mzantsi Jazz Awards in 2022. She won the Best Jazz Album as well as Best Female Jazz Artist.

She has also won the Best of South African Jazz Album of the Year 2022 after her debut album was top of charts on Vuka Online Radio for 11 months.

In promoting her new CD, Melorie Jane will perform with her quartet at different venues with some of Cape Town’s finest musicians including Bonga Mosola on trumpet, Danél Dippenaar on saxophone and flute and Chanté Phillips on drums and Chadleigh Gower on bass who will alternate with Bonolo Nkoane on drums and Mark Lynch on saxophone at other venues.

Melorie Jane concerts May 2024 in the Cape

Thursday May 2 at 9:30pm Athletic Club and Social, 35 Buitengracht St, Cape Town

Tickets R150 on Quicket

Sunday May 5 at 4pm, Jazz on the Bay, 306 Mcfarlane Rd, Simon’s Town

Tickets: R180 on Quicket

Thursday May 9 at 7pm, Selective Live, 189 Buitengracht St, Gardens, Cape Town

Tickets: R150.R80 students on Quicket

Friday May 24 at 7pm, Amazink, Masitandane Rd, Kayamandi, Stellenbosch

Tickets: R150, R80 students on Quicket

Hard copies of Hold the Stars will be on sale for R200 a copy at all performances. It is also available on all social media platforms.

✳ Sponsored content. Images of Melorie Jane- supplied.