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Biography
After receiving an impressive education in the genre that has formed the very core of his musical approach from day one at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in Greenwich Village, New York City, Jose James went on to launch a career based around his unusual, highly idiosyncratic mixture of jazz and hip hop in 2008, when he released his first album, ‘The Dreamer’. He followed that up with a second release on the Brownswood label, ‘Blackmagic’, before making a major step forward, both in terms of his own career and for the contemporary jazz movement in general; he was signed by the legendary jazz label Blue Note, an imprint best known for tending towards the more classical side of the genre.
Since then, James has released a further couple of albums, ‘No Beginning No End’ and ‘While You Were Sleeping’, and his international fanbase continues to expand accordingly - thanks in no small part to his consistent touring schedule. Additionally, James has released three collaborative albums with his peers: ‘Live at Cafe Loup’ in 2008, with Junior Mance, ‘Twelve Tons of Love’ in 2009 with Chico Hamilton, and ‘For All We Know’ in 2010, with Jef Neve.
Live reviews
Jose James live is an experience. Having seen him six or seven times live since '11, I know of what I speak (and write).
While all musicians strive to provide this, Jose James does so with power, honesty, vulnerability, insane pipes, a smoky and sultry vibe, backed up and shared with a round of instrumentalists so immersed in talent and skill that the concert is one that you remember forever.
While Blue Note signed him for No Beginning, No End, Jose James is far more than a jazz musician. There are elements of blues, hip hop, R&B, electronic pop, and everything great about old school in what he makes.
With beauty and truth, every song tells a story. His story, of course. And depending on where you are in your life each time you hear, the story shifts. And that is evidence of a musician who is on his path to becoming an icon.
Full disclosure: I've been a real fan for a while and blogged about him in October 2011: http://manufactureddrama.blogspot.com/2011/10/change-of-season-means-amazing-music.html
glossgal
Jose is such a beautiful soul and it shows in his music. Every song every lyric every note from his voice is truly heart felt. Love it when he turns his voice into an instriment or the scratches on vinyl. And the way he groved and synched with Nate Smith on drums could only be experienced to be appreciated. Nate is also a talent onto his own. His dancer was beautiful beyond words. In all an amazing experience. Love you Jose.
kimsim1965
So second time José James cancelled a concert in 6 month. God only knows WTF was the cause this time. Two hours before the concert was due XJazz posted a picture of the sound check. And then 1.5 hours before it was announced the concert was cancelled due to "serious health problems". Well guess it translates into either drug or alcohol abuse...
bokky
Listen to your session today May 20th Jose' James. I enjoyed it. Sent you a love ticket. Hope to hear from you soon in Los Angeles. Just been turned on to your music and think your HOT with twice the sizzle. Kepp on pushing baby you've got what it takes and then some.
Peace.
delores-wright
Awesome good show at Paradiso. Singing some of his best combined with some new work. First time I saw his new band, great performers espescially Nate Smith
Best : Jose records us singing you can come to my door
Best perfomance by the artist: Park bench
Thomas
tedeka
Awesome performance by Jose James. Forgot to tell him when he signed my cd & spoke to me that I was so impressed that he had it in vinyl.
He is not to be missed.
Can't wait to see him again.
sdml6
I love Jose James. I got all his vynils. But last night wasn't good at all. No musicians, just one drummer and a few buttons. And I am sorry to say. What was he on ?? Really disappointed.
pierre-monribot
Freakin' great concert! Great singer with a tight band. Played all his classics and more. Also Jose took the time to connect with his fans. Don't miss his next gig. Definitely worth it!
eduardo_chavez
Great show by a fantastic singer and band.
I enjoyed the evening and looking forward to December to see him again .
And José don't mind the taxi drivers you are a great guy.
monique-pellikaan
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