Beyond Words is where Bobby McFerrin finds the magic in music, and that is the title of his long-awaited new recording, the twelfth in a highly original creative journey that has already brought this musical innovator 10 Grammy Awards. In an arrangement as unique as McFerrin himself, the album will be released on March 12, 2002, and marketed jointly by legendary jazz label Blue Note and revered classical imprint Angel Records. McFerrin was signed to the sister labels under the Jazz & Classics umbrella of Capitol Records in early 2001 and both are a natural home for the performer whose creative energy flows freely through the worlds of jazz, classical, pop, choral, a cappella and world music.
On his own distinctive terms, McFerrin embraces the challenge of the title Beyond Words. He utilizes his four-octave range and complex vocal technique to create a tapestry of alluring sound, establishing a common musical language the whole world can relate to. McFerrin taps into a freedom of imagination that very few artists are able to express. He combines his joyous and seemingly effortless approach with a truly virtuosic technique.
Bruce Lundvall, President of Jazz & Classics, Capitol Records, states, “Bobby McFerrin is simply beyond category and it makes total sense for him to pursue his musical vision without genre limitations. Blue Note and Angel Records will provide a nurturing musical home for Bobby's unique genius."
Produced by Linda Goldstein and co-produced by Gil Goldstein, Beyond Words is McFerrin's 12th full-length release and takes the listener on a pilgrimage through McFerrin's influences from around the world. African, Asian, Spanish, Middle Eastern, Western and traditional jazz elements can be heard on pieces like “Invocation," “A Silken Road," “Ziggurat" and “Marlowe." McFerrin even flirts with drum and bass music on “Taylor Made," a song in which he teams with his son Taylor on mouth percussion. McFerrin uses keyboards to create layers of sound that interweave with multiple layers of vocal textures. He composed all 16 tracks, except for his adventurous take on Chick Corea's “Windows." Corea, Richard Bona, Omar Hakim and Cyro Baptista also back McFerrin on several tracks.
The release of Beyond Words is sure to be one of a number of successes for this groundbreaking performer. Recently, McFerrin made his debut as conductor of the Vienna Philharmonic - one of the world's greatest orchestras - for several triumphant concerts.
Looking towards the future, McFerrin plans to explore choral music on an album that will also be released on Blue Note/Angel Records.
BOBBY MCFERRIN
Beyond Words
Blue Note 34201
March 12, 2002
For more information contact All About Jazz.
