Songs for Lovers and Losers

Album Description

Dive into the sultry and sophisticated world of Soesja Citroen with her latest vocal jazz album, "Songs for Lovers and Losers." Released on May 12, 2021, under the Baseline Jazz label, this captivating collection of 14 tracks offers a rich tapestry of timeless classics and hidden gems, all infused with Citroen's velvety vocals and impeccable phrasing. Spanning a little over an hour, the album is a testament to Citroen's artistry and her deep connection with the jazz tradition.

From the playful and poignant "Lovers and Losers" to the smoky and introspective "Angel Eyes," Citroen navigates the complexities of love and heartbreak with grace and nuance. She pays homage to jazz legends with her renditions of standards like "Lush Life," "Alone Together," and "Love for Sale," while also introducing lesser-known treasures like "I'm in A Minor Key Today" and "Speak Low" to a wider audience. Her unique interpretations breathe new life into these songs, showcasing her remarkable range and emotional depth.

Throughout the album, Citroen is accompanied by a stellar ensemble of musicians, creating a lush and immersive soundscape that highlights her vocals and the intricate arrangements. Whether she's crooning a tender ballad like "Willow Tree" or belting out a bluesy number like "I Ain't Got Nothin' but the Blues," Citroen's passion and authenticity shine through.

"Songs for Lovers and Losers" is not just an album; it's an experience that invites you to explore the highs and lows of the human heart through the lens of jazz. Soesja Citroen's remarkable talent and artistry make this a collection that will resonate with jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

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.