Charles Lloyd returns this fall with a brand new double album, Figure in Blue, featuring his new trio consisting of pianist Jason Moran and guitarist Marvin Sewell. The album came to fruition back this past March during a concert with the new trio at Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara, California celebrating the saxophonist-flutist’s 87th birthday. Shortly after, they headed into the studio to record the album which is Lloyd’s 51st studio effort to date and his 12th with Blue Note.
Figure in Blue is a tribute to the music and musicians that have shaped Lloyd’s artistry, paying homage to legends such as Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and Zakir Hussain. Largely inspired about the music from the American South, the album takes listeners on a journey through musical terrain from beautiful ballads to raw Delta blues, weaving together stories and memories from Lloyd’s Southern upbringing.
Joining Lloyd on this latest effort is Marvin Sewell, who All About Jazz describes as “the greatest guitarist you’ve never heard of.” Sewell has worked with the likes of Cassandra Wilson, Lizz Wright, Jack DeJohnette, David Sanborn and fellow trio member Jason Moran.
Moran, an acclaimed pianist and composer in his own right, has collaborated with Lloyd for over 20 years and has worked with contemporary jazz greats such as Ralph Alessi, Greg Osby and Christian McBride.
Figure in Blue comes out October 10 on Blue Note Records. Take a listen to the lead singles, “Figure in Blue, memories of Duke” and “Hymn To The Mother, For Zakir.”
