The James McGowan Ensemble is an Ottawa, Ontario-based 13-piece group consisting of two quartets and a number of solo artists, including its namesake piano player/director, James McGowan.
This year saw the group release their album, Reaching In, a concept album and the first half of an extended story told through music, spoken-word program notes, and visual art. It depicts a protagonist’s journey from struggles of isolation, low self-worth, social anxiety, addiction, and loss, to finding peace, acceptance, belonging, and a sense of community.
Or as he describes it:
“We all experience personal and collective struggles, and sometimes hide from reality, but this concept album shares a musical representation of my own process to reach in, work on myself, and seek inner peace, with the hope of re-engaging in society — reaching out.”
Reaching In sees the ensemble tap into a rich blend of jazz, rock, classical music, and a bit of a flow totally of its own that is a rich and rewarding listen.
Enjoy the title track below and find the entire album available to stream and buy now at Bandcamp.
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