Album Notes

The sounds and styles of New York vocalist/composer Jocelyn Medina cross cultures, creeds and continents. Her original music fuses elements of Brazil, Spain, Africa and India with jazz harmonies, funk grooves and adventurous improvisations delivered through compelling lyrics and a distinct sound. Whether by means of an unexpected melodic turn, a hook that leaves you hopeful, or the rich resonance and dexterity of her voice, she seeks to touch on each listener’s individual experience with messages of universal truth and an inventive artistic approach.

Jocelyn gathered much of her eclectic mix of artistic influences during the four years she spent living abroad in Madrid, Spain, where she performed in jazz festivals and venues throughout Europe and recorded her first full-length CD of original compositions, “The Journey Begun.” Since moving to New York City in 2005, she has established herself as a unique and powerful voice in the local jazz scene, where she continues to diversify her repertoire merging genres and defying classification.

On “We Are Water,” her sophomore release, Jocelyn is accompanied by a veteran band of international all-star players including Rodrigo Ursaia, Kristjan Randalu, Miles Okasaki, Raphael McGregor, Aidan Carroll, and Bodek Janke. The album features 10 original compositions and one arrangement of the prolific Brazilian composer Hermeto Pascoal, showcasing intricate plays of vocal, horn and flute lines, and multi-layers of drums and percussion.

“…(her) seductive voice transforms each live performance into an authentic multicultural experience…demonstrating her remarkable finesse in the renovation of musical styles and genres.” (La Mundial, Spain)