UK saxophonist, vocalist and composer Kim Cypher releases her third album on 22 November. ‘Catching Moments’ – with guests Liane Carroll, Ray Gelato, Ashley Slater and Antonio Forcione – has been four years in the making and follows on from ‘Make Believe’ (2016) and ‘Love Kim x’ (2019). Kim and her band are at Pizza Express Jazz Club Soho on Monday 11 November.
UK Jazz News: Why is the album called ‘Catching Moments’?
Kim Cypher: The writing process for ‘Catching Moments’ has been very different to my two previous albums. I started writing the tracks back in 2020 as stand-alone tracks to be released as singles. Then, the pandemic struck, and everything changed. I found myself writing prolifically to express a range of feelings and emotions. This was coupled with an overwhelming feeling of pride for my fellow musicians and those working in the arts for all their resilience and the incredible work they do. So, I launched a vast project called ‘Brighter Tomorrow’ devoted to highlighting and celebrating those who work in the arts. The project grew and attracted support from fellow musicians, the music media world and the wider community (the campaign hashtag is #brightertomorrowforthearts on socials.)
With all this new music and a passion to celebrate fellow musicians, an unexpected, unplanned new album was born. The title needed to reflect the music, which had been inspired by special moments in the world and life over the past four years. Life is short and special moments should be cherished. So, the title ‘Catching Moments’ perfectly represents what the album is all about.
UKJN: People have said that the album reflects your optimistic nature. Is that right?
KC: I hope so. I am a firm believer in fate, and I truly believe that everything happens for a reason, so I guess this allows me to find optimism and positivity in every situation. Even in some of my more reflective pieces of music, I try to portray the positives. I think the whole album is a journey of emotions, but I hope the listener will feel uplifted and positively inspired.
UKJN: Who are the guests and what is special about them?
KC: It has been important to bring in the right musicians to reflect the wide range of styles and to express my music with absolute heart and soul. Along with an all-star band, I brought in special guests Liane Carroll, Ray Gelato, Ashley Slater and Antonio Forcione. I admire and respect each of these musicians for their exceptional musicianship and for the unique personality each one brings.
UKJN: Have you already had the album launch? Where was it and how did it go?
KC: Yes, I performed an Album Preview show at Ronnie Scott’s on Father’s Day. It was a sell-out performance and was concluded with an audience standing ovation. I couldn’t ask for any more than that and I am truly grateful. It also believe it was fate that the performance was on Father’s Day as I planned to unveil the track ‘Where Time Goes’ which is a track marking the first anniversary of losing my dear Dad in 2022. This track also features a stunning black and white cinematic video, filmed at stunning Monknash Beach in South Wales and was featured as ‘Video of the Day’ by Jazzwise:
Last month I performed the official ‘Album Launch’ in my hometown of Cheltenham, at one of my regular jazz venues, Dunkerton’s. Over 200 local supporters came out for a spectacular night with my 8-piece band, special guest Ray Gelato, the Flaming Feathers dancers and compered by Jazz FM’s David Freeman. So, the album has been well and truly launched!
UKJN: And tell us about the London tour launch and about B.D. Lenz?
KC: Next up is a return visit to the wonderful Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho on Monday 11 November to launch the album tour. This will be an evening showcasing music from the album but also featuring my good friend, US guitarist B.D. Lenz. I have collaborated with B.D. on several recordings and I always tie up with him as part of his UK tours. It turned out that he’s in the UK this month, so it worked out perfectly to include him in this special gig. There are still a few tickets available if anyone would like to join us (Booking link below).
