The Melorie Jane Quintet

ABOUT

Contemporary Jazz artist, Melorie Jane, has released her debut album, 'More or Less', the third release for the artist in 2021, following two singles, earlier in the year containing elements of contemporary jazz and neo-soul. The brand-new addition, 'More or Less' features Melorie Jane's jazz quintet performing music in a style of South African contemporary jazz with elements of Latin jazz, funk and hip-hop. 

The album have been applauded as “absolutely brilliant’ by Nothemba Madumo on the Urban Jazz Experience on Metro FM and “such a refreshing style to listen to” on Expresso Morning Show on SABC 3. 

The album, which features jazz music in a contemporary approach, deals with themes such as the artist's process of finding and expressing one's idea of home and the self. Pieces such as 

Mr. Tswai and Sense of Home, according to the composer, are snapshots of experience, and are influenced by her interest in South African jazz composers such as Kyle Shepherd, Carlo Mombelli and Bheki Mseleku. Other pieces, such as Amina reference her interest in international contemporary jazz bands, such as Snarky Puppy and The Bad Plus.

'I am inspired by young musicians who are pushing the boundaries of music. I wrote this album to introduce my own style, but also to pay tribute to those who have paved the road before us', Melorie Jane mentions, when reflecting about her musical influences. 

Watch and enjoy music performed by the Melorie Jane Quintet from her album and previous releases as well as exciting contemporary jazz music from all around the world. 

The Melorie Jane Quintet will be: 

Carla Stokes on saxophone

Chanté Phillips on drums

Alex Mayers on bass

Shaw Komori on trumpet

Melorie Jane on piano and voice

DIRECTIONS