Marie Goudy – Trumpet, Voice
Jocelyn Barth – Voice
Stu Harrison – Piano
Nick Arsenault – Bass, Voice
Andrew Scott – Drums, Voice

Featuring Alison Young – Alto Sax (10)
Produced by Elizabeth Shepherd

Hold On to Me is the debut full-length album by Toronto jazz-pop quintet Paloma Sky. It features ten tracks composed and arranged by bandleader and trumpet player Marie Goudy,  and showcases the sensational voice of lead singer Jocelyn Barth. The music traverses a wide range of jazz sub-genres, from Latin to soul to swing, but the common thread is a strong foundation of catchy melodies and rich grooves. The album delves into themes of love, passion, and triumph. Even the songs that address themes of loneliness and heartbreak  are infused with positive energy as Goudy finds the beauty in the pain.

Goudy’s main compositional influences are Stevie Wonder, Maria Schneider, and Kenny Wheeler. She approaches writing music as though she were writing a novel: establishing a harmonic and melodic ‘setting’ that the listener can immerse themselves in, and using unexpected harmonic shifts as ‘plot twists’ that delight the ear, ultimately culminating in a narrative climax.

Marie Goudy’s fiery trumpet solos are a standout feature of the album, adding an energetic spark and dynamic range to each piece. Paloma Sky consists of vocalist Jocelyn Barth, trumpet player Marie Goudy, pianist Stu Harrison, bassist Nick Arseneau, and drummer Andrew Scott. Four out of the five musicians are accomplished vocalists, and Hold On to Me makes full use of their skills with lush, four-part vocal harmonies throughout the album. The record is produced by six-time JUNO nominee Elizabeth Shepherd, whose contribution imparts a pop sensibility to an album that remains firmly rooted in its jazz foundations.

Paloma Sky’s music is enjoyed by a broad range of audiences. Even listeners who usually shy away from jazz find themselves enthralled with the band’s sound. This album has something for everyone, whether they’re a die-hard jazz fan or completely new to the genre. 

mariegoudy.com

Release Date: Friday, September 13th, 2024