It is a rare pleasure these days to hear a singer with a completely original sound and an immediately recognizable voice that mesmerizes with sheer tonal beauty and style. Such an artist is soul and jazz powerhouse Maysa, who, like Anita Baker (to whom she is sometimes compared) occupies a completely unique niche in the musical cosmos, at the intersection of jazz and soul.

But Maysa has ranged far more widely, into the realms of Acid Jazz, as a featured vocalist with Incognito, and dance music. Her multi-faceted artistry is part of what makes her special but it may also be a reason why she has not been more widely known, despite the fervor of her fans, in a world that depends far too much on easy categorization.

The release of her seventh album, Metamorphosis, an impressive set of all-original material that follows up on her two acclaimed albums of classic soul, may well be the album that takes her to the next level of appreciation as one of the foremost contemporary vocalists on the scene today.

“My vision for this album,” Maysa notes, “was to change the music a little bit to be in line with the way I feel spiritually and emotionally. On a couple of my previous albums I was playing it a little too safe. I’m not afraid to express myself now.”

Metamorphosis offers many high points that underscore Maysa’s impressive ability to project her soul into different musical contexts. Songs such as “Simpatico” deliver the kind funky Brazilian-inflected jazz that Maysa has been noted for with Incognito, as well as on own her albums. “Never Really Ever” is slinky neo-soul while “I Need A Man” is a straightforward R & B ballad.

Metamorphosis also features some impressive guest performers; saxophonist/flautist Najee and guitarist Nick Colionne and drummer/producer Michael White.

Blues & Soul Magazine has said, “Maysa’s voice is as smooth and as rich as chocolate…its pure, perfect tone is gorgeous and caresses with a languorous sensuality.”

The Baltimore Sun wrote, “Maysa is one of the best singers in underground soul.”

Maysa released Metamorphosis, back in October, for more information you can visit maysa.com.

Comments are closed.