Home / Arts and Entertainment / From Saxophone Fury to Folk Ballads: Zoh Amba's New Sound
From Saxophone Fury to Folk Ballads: Zoh Amba's New Sound
9 Jun
Summary
- Zoh Amba shifts from intense saxophone jazz to traditional singer-songwriter.
- Their Matador debut, "Eyes Full," features character-based narratives.
- The album's raw sound is achieved with zero overdubs.
Zoh Amba, once a prominent figure in the experimental jazz scene known for their intense saxophone performances, has released their Matador debut, "Eyes Full." This 13-song, 40-minute record marks a significant departure, featuring Amba as a traditional singer-songwriter.
The album "Eyes Full" delves into character-based narratives, exploring stories of an opioid addict and a disillusioned friend. Recorded with zero overdubs, the sound is intentionally raw, capturing a unique sonic texture. Amba aims to translate the intensity of their past saxophone playing into a folk music context.
Amba's musical journey includes a past immersed in jazz legends and a conservatory education before dropping out. They later formed the supergroup Beings with artists like Steve Gunn. "Eyes Full" features a band including drummer Jim White and bassist Landon George, with Amba also contributing piano and guitar.
Despite influences like Bob Dylan and Emmylou Harris, Amba carves out a distinct niche. The music is meticulously rehearsed, allowing for dynamic shifts and even experimental noise rock breaks within songs. The vocal delivery on "Eyes Full" is often raw and emotive, adding to the album's autobiographical feel.
