What inspired this new record, and what does the title say about its spirit?
‘…And Writing And Singing And Tunes To Be Swingin’ dreams to be a traditional jazz and blues songbook. When people hear it for the first time I hope it feels nostalgic. At least for me it does as it’s inspired by the greats; Louis Armstrong, Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles. The title of the album is a lyric taken from the first track ‘Busy’. It’s a list of things I love about music and a short and sweet summary of what the album is.
How has your songwriting and sound evolved since The Whole Damn Plan?
Both albums have a strong sense of ‘me’. I believe my songwriting and playing still rings true to my personal sound in both works.However AWASATTBS feels more refined in its jazz/blues style, unlike TWDM which included some western, Brazilian rhythms and more.
Coming from a musical family, with your grandfather and father featured on the album, what role does heritage play in your identity as composer and performer?
For as long as I can remember, I always knew I would play music but I wasn’t sure exactly how that would look. All I knew is that it would fill my life with joy. I inherited this passion for music from my dad, as did he. Some of the greatest things I’ve learnt about music were from my father. He knows hundreds of records inside out and when we listen to music together he ‘narrates’ it. He knows the musicians on the tracks, he knows their biographies, he knows every single lick inside out and points out all his favourites. He talks about it so passionately that I come away feeling excited. These are my most valuable music lessons.
Many tracks touch on family, health, gratitude, and showbiz—how do you turn those themes into music?
I love telling stories! Both in and out of music. Inspired by Joni Mitchell, Nina Simone, Steely Dan and many more world class lyricists I have always been drawn to a good story. My songwriting process usually starts with the words which then dictates the melody. Having lyrics in music is such a powerful way to tell a tale. This, paired with the depth of improvisation, can send a very strong message! It’s a wonderful way to connect with people!
How did your quintet and guest Alex Fisher shape the chemistry of this album?
I am so lucky to be able to make music with such talented and truly wonderful musicians and friends. This incredible band have so much respect and passion for the music I write and bring it together with so much souls and character whilst always maintaining my vision. I am so grateful to play with them. Issey Chivers - Vocals, Tom Harris - Piano, Josh Vadiveloo - Bass, Miles Pillinger.
Why include reimagined classics like “Moanin’” and “Cryin’ Time” alongside originals?
When playing with the Olivia Cuttill Quintet, I mostly play original material, however so much of the jazz tradition is playing standards. Lots of what I do day to day is playing renditions of old songs. Cryin Time, by Buck Owen’s, has been covered by many brilliant musicians. I discovered the song on Nancy Sinatra‘s album ‘How Does That Grab You?’. This beautiful song is short, sweet and simple and almost resembles a lullaby. When I play it on the trumpet, it feels meditative. I’ve been playing it for years and love it dearly! What drew me to Moanin’ by Bobby Timmons wasn’t only the melody but the trumpet solo played by the brilliant Lee Morgan. So melodic and lyrical it jumped out at me as such a perfect solo for a vocalese.
How did winning the 2024 Peter Whittingham Jazz Award influence this project?
The Peter Whitingham Award was invaluable to the production of this album. The music was ready and the drive was there but without the funding support the album wouldn’t be here. I am so grateful for the support and urge others to apply for it!
What can audiences expect from the album launch at Alfie’s Soho and your UK/EU tour?
The album launch/tour will be a celebration! There will be lots of stories and sing alongs. Lots of blues and swing and New Orleans ‘tambourining’. Lots of trumpet and vocals and lots and lots of fun. We’ll be celebrating the birth of ‘…And Writing And Tunes To Be Swingin’, with some classics from ‘The Whole Damn Plan’ and more… I’ll be sharing the stage with Issey Chivers on Vocals, Tom Harris on Piano, Josh Vadiveloo on Bass (Lorenzo Morabito on the album launch) and Miles Pillinger on drums. This will be a night to remember. And not to mention … lots of merch!
Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to shape as a third-generation musician in the UK jazz scene?
Following on in my father’s and grandfather’s footsteps, I hope to fill my life with music and joy. I’ll continue to keep making and sharing music and hope people continue to listen!
Favourite track on the new album and why?
Choosing a favourite is almost impossible! I love every single song on this album, but one that stands out to me as a particularly special piece of music is There’s A House Down By The Station. It tells the story of a house situated in the suburbs of East London, a happy house lives by the railway station. It was once home to my grandma, our family and many joyful memories. Though it may belong to someone new, those memories will be our’s forever. The songs leads on from an introductory interlude, which layers two 1960’s tape recordings. A solo piano performance by Geoff Cuttill (my late grandfather) and a home recording from inside ‘The House Down By The Station.’ It ends with a sing along and is the most wholesome piece of music I have ever made.
