Celebrated Canadian jazz vocalist Heather Ward debuts her solo album “Honeysweet,” showcasing a rich blend of original tracks and fresh jazz arrangements
Seattle, Washington —Produced collaboratively by Heather and Dave Houghton, and recorded under the expert mixing of Ben Lange at Lange Recording Studios, Heather Ward’s new release: “Honeysweet” features a collection of Seattle’s finest musicians.
The ensemble includes John Hansen on piano, Martin Budde on guitar, Moe Weisner on bass, Luca Cartner on drums, with Kate Olson on sax and flute, and Carey Rayburne on trumpet. Heather’s children, Shaina Ward Siegel and Aidan Ward-Richter, also contribute significantly; Shaina on bass and Aidan providing piano, drums, and arrangements, highlighting the album’s deep personal connections.
The album comprises a thoughtful mix of jazz standards, an original title track, and innovative jazz interpretations of songs from other favorite genres—a stylistic hallmark Heather has developed over her extensive career. Critics have lauded Heather’s “smokey, sultry alto” and her “tremendous vocal performance,” with the album described as swinging hard and captivating listeners with its “accomplished musicianship” and “ease and grace.”
This project serves not only as a demonstration of Heather’s vocal and artistic prowess but also as a launchpad for her anticipated increase in live performances and engagement within the jazz community. Now that her children have grown and she has transitioned away from her 9-5 commitments, Heather is fully dedicating herself to her music career. “Honeysweet” represents this new focus, with its blend of deeply personal reflections and broad musical explorations.
Listeners can purchase “Honeysweet” on Heather’s website and all major music platforms. Fans and new listeners are also invited to the album release party, encouraged to book voice lessons, and reach out for interviews and reviews. Heather continues to teach private voice lessons and remains an active member of NATS, enriching her students’ lives with her vast experience and passion for jazz.
Join Heather Ward as she delves deeper into the jazz genre, crafting a legacy that celebrates authenticity, passion, and the transformative power of music. Heather’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of following one’s passion and the beautiful complexity of life captured through the art of jazz!
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ABOUT
Heather Ward, a seasoned jazz vocalist originally from Canada and now based in Seattle, introduces her debut solo album, “Honeysweet.” Released on May 27, 2024, this album signifies a major milestone in Heather’s career, marking her full transition from a diverse musical and theatrical performer and educator to focusing solely on her passion for jazz.
As Heather embraces this exciting new chapter, her journey from art school and gallery performances to studying Jazz Performance at Capilano University, and her accolades like performing in Vancouver’s International Jazz Festival, all converge in this album. Heather plans to keep the momentum going with already another set of tracks ready for a potential second album and more live performances planned.
CONTACT
Heather Ward
Name: Heather Ward Studios LLC
Email: heatherwardstudiosllc@gmail.com
LINKS
Facebook: www.facebook.com/quirkyjazz
YouTube: youtu.be/Hf8UkWOuft4?si=SJHqjxNFGii2Ppil
Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/5HIMEIXIinvDq4SayktZAr?si=fX7PJuPjRBKmNZHcIAr8Dg&preview=none
SoundCloud: www.soundcloud.com/heatherwardstudios
Reverbnation: www.reverbnation.com/heatherward
All About Jazz: www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/heather-ward
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@heatherwardstudios
Source: ArtistPR