Morgan Guerin is undoubtedly becoming a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene in New York. Signed to the legendary Candid Records, he represents a new generation of jazz artists ready to shift the traditional perception of the genre. In this context, his new album “Tales of the Facade” serves as a manifesto of his innovative approach to jazz.

Indeed, this album is one of the major releases of May 2024. The title alone prompts one to ponder: what stories lie behind the facades of our everyday lives? And how can music reflect or even alter our perception of the world around us? Morgan Guerin explores these questions through the lens of his album, resulting in a truly unique outcome.

photo by Chase Guerin

Guerin has set himself an incredibly ambitious task: to create music that everyone will enjoy. The times when everyone listened to the same thing are long gone, making this task seemingly fantastical. However, he approaches it with extraordinary courage, mixing genres as a bartender mixes cocktails. The first thing that strikes the ear upon listening is the depth and layering. Jazz forms the skeleton, around which styles intertwine: pop, R&B, hip-hop, and synth sounds. It’s as if he is constantly playing a game of tag with you—just as you begin to get used to one motif, he cleverly jumps to another.

Many might think that the way to the heart of a broad audience lies through pop music that follows the latest trends and fashions. However, Guerin chooses a different path. Morgan Guerin decides not just to follow trends but to create something genuine and alive, something that can speak the language of modernity while still retaining deep roots in the jazz genre.

Each track on the album is like a separate story, full of emotions and colors. You can imagine listening to these tracks in different settings: sitting in the dim light of a cozy bar with live jazz music, or walking through a bustling city to the invigorating beats of hip-hop. This is music that changes with your sensations and mood, adapting and revealing itself anew with each listening.

In the track “Retopia,” the soulful jazz resonates with an undertone of somber synth-pop music. This creates a wave of dark sound, offering a new experience of jazz music. Quite experimental with a rich arrangement is “Delayed Green.” Listening to such an opening to the album, I can’t help but think about how the dense sound and the abundance of gritty, swinging synth elements reflect our reality. Morgan Guerin also raises questions in the album about “who we really are, outside of social networks.“

photo by Chase Guerin

Seeking an answer to this question involves deep analysis, studying human psychology, and even one’s own feelings. Perhaps this is why the album sounds so provocatively stylish, unabashed, and at times even daringly candid? I appreciate that Guerin isn’t afraid to be open with the world, and the freedom of sound in which R&B and jazz blend in the track “We Are More” seems to encourage not being afraid to be oneself. You won’t find similar music in the world of jazz because Morgan Guerin’s vision of jazz music is unique. His style is distinctive, and the emotions he conveys through sound immediately hit the mark. In the track “Peace Of Mind,” in a light manner, through gentle vocals and the sensual sound of jazz interrupted by hip-hop energy and pure spoken word, Guerin addresses the pandemic and war.

In the track “Day By Day,” Morgan Guerin uses a chorus of voices to address the inescapability of anti-Black racism. It seems that the sound of the album truly reflects reality and resonates timelessly. The album concludes with “Something In The Air” and “Homeland Heroine,” on a very strong and melancholic note. “Something In The Air” blends the tenderness of soul jazz and light R&B, adding a strong rhythmic pattern that polishes and enriches the entire release. The final track, “Homeland Heroine,” is influenced by Guerin’s personal life and his many influences — one of which is Patricia Hill Collins, the author of Black Feminist Thought.

The album “Tales of The Facade” amalgamates the influences, emotions, and extensive experience of Morgan Guerin. His music is accessible to listeners all around the globe, and everyone can find a track that resonates with their soul. The timelessness and love in “Tales of The Facade” are audible in every beat, making the album unique and distinctive.

So, if you’re ready for an adventure in the musical world where jazz meets modernity, “Tales of The Facade” might just be the album to open new horizons for you. But be prepared: this journey is for those who are not afraid to step away from stereotypes.

*This review was made possible by SubmitHub