Here and Now

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of vocal jazz with Soesja Citroen's latest album, "Here and Now," released on May 12, 2021, under the Baseline Jazz label. This captivating collection features 12 tracks that span a full hour of pure musical bliss, showcasing Citroen's remarkable vocal prowess and her deep connection to the jazz tradition.

"Here and Now" is a testament to Soesja Citroen's status as one of Holland's top jazz singers, respected widely in European jazz circles. The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Cees Slinger on piano, Jan Voogd on bass, Arnoud Gerritse on drums, and Jarmo Hoogendijk on saxophone. Together, they bring a rich tapestry of sound to life, with each track offering a unique blend of classic and contemporary jazz elements.

From the sultry "Peel Me a Grape" to the heartfelt "Born to Be Blue," and the swinging "My Shining Hour," this album is a journey through the timeless appeal of vocal jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of Soesja Citroen or new to her music, "Here and Now" promises an hour of pure enjoyment, filled with beautiful melodies and sophisticated harmonies. It's an album that stands as a testament to the enduring power of jazz and the artistry of Soesja Citroen.

12 mei 2021

2021 Baseline Jazz

About Soesja Citroen

Soesja Citroen, born in The Hague, Netherlands, is a renowned jazz singer and composer who has captivated audiences with her expressive vocals and compelling songwriting. With a career spanning over three decades, Citroen has become a leading figure in the Dutch jazz scene, earning a reputation for her emotive performances and distinctive voice, often referred to as "the virgin voice." Her influences range from jazz legends like Abbey Lincoln and Billie Holiday to Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald, all of whom have shaped her unique style.

Citroen's debut at the North Sea Jazz Festival in 1980 marked the beginning of a prolific career, during which she has collaborated with notable figures in the Dutch music industry, including Rogier van Otterloo. Her work has been celebrated internationally, with her album receiving the highest rating in the 2005 Penguin Guide to Jazz. In addition to her musical achievements, Citroen is also known for her activism, particularly her efforts to commemorate the Jewish victims of the Holocaust in Gouda through the placement of Stolpersteine, small memorial stones. Her commitment to both her art and her community makes Soesja Citroen a truly inspiring figure in the world of jazz.