Sébastien Joulie - Loaded (2024) [Hi-Res]

This is Sébastien Joulie’s fourth album for Fresh Sound, and to me, it represents his most remarkable achievement. Leading his group, the guitarist has strived to present as many facets of their music as possible while remaining faithful to the essentials: unity and energy.

Sébastien’s playing is cool and intricate, with every chord, voicing, and melodic line perfectly suited to his musical ideas. He showcases a unique blend of intellect and emotion, demonstrating that his fluency lies as much in his mind as in his fingers. In addition to his playing, he has done extensive listening and transcription work, drawing influences not only from post-bop guitarists like Jim Hall, Grant Green, and René Thomas but also from pianists like McCoy Tyner and horn players like John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins.

His deep understanding of modern jazz is also a key part of his musical universe. All these influences have significantly shaped his evolving style and personal message, especially through his own compositions. The album itself is filled with strong rhythmic melodies, interwoven with a variety of colors and individual musical expressions, all presented in a contemporary style. The work is harmonically rich, displaying a fine sense of balance and order.

Beyond reaffirming Joulie’s position as one of the most accomplished guitarists and composers on the European scene, this album also highlights the considerable talents of his sidemen, some of whom have contributed their own compositions. Sébastien takes pride in his strong association with tenor saxophonist Stéphane Moutot, whose playing is bold, spirited, and always pushing the boundaries of his material while maintaining firm control of his ideas.

Benoît Thevenot delivers crisp, articulate, and imaginative solos on both piano and Fender Rhodes, while Michel Molines and Charles Clayette provide rhythmic depth and color. Clayette, in particular, stands out as a master of rhythmic dynamics, constantly driving the beat forward with swirling energy.

All in all, this album feels like one that grows with each listen, revealing multiple layers of richness and depth beneath the surface.

—Jordi Pujol

Tracklist

01. On the Hoof (Sebastien Joulie) 10:08
02. Olga (Benoît Thevenot) 9:06
03. From Keith to George (Stephan Moutot) 9:20
04. Loaded (Sébastien Joulie) 7:21
05. Confused (Michel Molines) 6:17
06. The Republik of Crooks (Stephan Moutot) 7:30
07. Cool Winter (Sébastien Joulie) 6:09
08. Turkish Head (Sébastien Joulie) 6:48

Personnel:
Sébastien Joulie (guitar), Stephan Moutot (tenor saxophone), Benoît Thevenot (piano, keyboards), Michel Molines (bass), Charles Clayette (drums).
Recorded at Chuck’s House Studios, Saint Etienne, France, November 2023