Cormac Kenevey - Turning Skies (2018)

“he brings heart, warmth and spirit to everything he sings” - Jazzwise Magazine

“Immediately refreshing...he exudes confidence, wit and style ****” - The Times

Turning Skies is the third album from critically acclaimed Dublin singer, Cormac Kenevey. The much anticipated follow-up to his Candid Records releases This is Living and The Art of Dreaming confirms his reputation as a unique and assured voice in the world of jazz-influenced vocals.

A highlight of Turning Skies is the new lyric for Big Day (Sky Turning Grey) that comes with the personal endorsement of its composer, jazz piano star, Brad Mehldau. Kenevey has penned a touching paternal lyric for this warm and beautiful melody.

Other track choices are varied with some classic jazz repertoire (Stolen Moments, I’ll Never Be The Same) as well as some more contemporary choices from Kristina Train (Saturday’s Are The Greatest) and Paul Simon (Train In The Distance). Kenevey has also collaborated with Italian guitarist Julien Colarossi for the new song How I’ll Know (Song for Lili). The lively latin/swing track The Carioca has long been a favourite at Kenevey’s live shows and is finally recorded for posterity.

Over a decade since he was first discovered by jazz industry legend Alan Bates, Kenevey’s vocal style has become more mature, with an understated confidence in his delivery and a great respect for the artists that have had an influence on him “I can hear lots of little stylistic things and identify them as influence from various people… some were intentional ‘nods’ and some that just popped in there. There are elements of Al Jarreau, Jon Hendricks and especially Mark Murphy, all of whom have sadly passed away in recent years. As for other influences coming through, I’ll challenge the discerning vocal jazz listeners to decide! Hopefully I just sound like me.”