for your consideration
Best Jazz Vocal Album
Best Instrumental Composition
Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals
Best Improvised Jazz Solos
Each track on Gemini, the new album from pianist, singer and composer Adrianne Duncan, is a mini-suite in its own right. Duncan draws upon her background in classical music and jazz to create her rich sonic palettes, while also being informed by such songwriter-poets as Joni Mitchell and Nick Drake. Her dense harmonies and often unconventional structures leave room for improvisation and melodic development, supporting quirky and intelligent lyrics that speak to her love of story and character.
The ensemble of world-class jazz musicians includes Nick Mancini on vibraphone, Dan Lutz on bass, Jimmy Branly on drums, Katisse Buckingham on sax and flute and John Tegmeyer on clarinet. Recorded in Pasadena and Los Angeles, Gemini is a sophisticated contribution to the creative original jazz canon.
gemini album credits
Adrianne Duncan: piano, vocals
Nick Mancini: vibraphone
Dan Lutz: bass
Jimmy Branly: drums
Katisse Buckingham: flute, saxophone
John Tegmeyer: clarinet
All compositions except “Roxanne” by Adrianne Duncan
“Roxanne” written by Sting; arrangement by Adrianne Duncan & Nick Mancini
Produced by Adrianne Duncan
Recorded and engineered by Tom Weir
Mixed and mastered by Jimmy Branly
total running time 41:03
“On her Gemini, the vocalist/pianist/composer proves herself an adept and compelling artist in the jazz genre, one who isn't afraid to take some chances. . . ’Roxanne’ is particularly fine take on the tune, from a particularly promising jazz artist..”
All About Jazz ★★★★
“With her gorgeous vocals and improvisational ability, Adrianne Duncan alternately moved and wowed the crowd.”
Chicago Reader
“Adrianne Duncan, with her powerful voice, was to my mind the standout performer of the evening.”
Chicago Windy City Times
“Her poised and supple delivery indicated that a substantial talent has begun to blossom.”
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“Supremely confident.”
Chicago Sun-Times
“A charming performer with passion and a beautiful, strong voice. . . . The crowd loved it.”
LA Jazz Scene
“Her intelligent structures left substantial room for improvisation. Duncan embodied relaxed precision on the keyboard and proved warm and confident.”
Metaljazz.com