Moncef Genoud Signs with Savoy Jazz, Releases "Aqua"

Acclaimed Tunisian-born, Swiss-raised pianist Moncef Genoud has signed with Savoy Jazz and his first project for the legendary label is titled Aqua. Recorded in New York, Aqua is set for release in April 2006. The talented composer is accompanied by a stellar group of musicians including Michael Brecker, Bill Steward, Scott Colley and Dee Dee Bridgewater. Produced by Los Angeles-based Rollin' Dice Productions and dubbed his most ambitious project, Aqua comprises seven original numbers and three covers.

Blind from birth, Genoud is known for being an expressive player and his compositions are noted for their inherent melodicism. Aqua is a title indicative of the important role that color plays in inspiring his work. Moncef notes in an interview for the San Diego Union Tribune, “For me, colors are three different things: emotion, sound and what I feel I can put in my tune at the moment."

The Swiss pianist is just becoming known in the US although he has recorded ten albums as a leader internationally and has attracted the attention of those in the know as a result of his extensive touring. Genoud expects to keep up the touring momentum in support of Aqua--dates TBD. The complete track listing is as follows: “Out of the Blue," “Aqua," “Sliding Shadows," “Times Square Circle," “Summertime," “Lovely Vij'," “Moment's Notice," “Mix of Keys," “Moncef's Mood," “and “Lush Life" featuring Dee Dee Bridgewater.

Says Joshua Sherman, Senior Director of A&R and Marketing for the Savoy Label Group: “Moncef's music has an innate lyricism and sense of intimacy that is immediately appealing. His compositions are accessible without sacrificing complexity, respectful of jazz tradition without denying his irrepressible personality. Moncef is an artist with a highly individual sound and a beautiful spirit, and we are very excited to present his US debut and to work with Moncef to develop his career around the world."

Savoy Jazz is a unit of the Savoy Label Group (SLG). SLG is the North American unit of Columbia Music Entertainment (formerly Nippon Columbia), the oldest music company in Japan. Newly reorganized and now headed by Chairman Strauss Zelnick, Columbia Music Entertainment has re-emerged as a significant creative force with a stable of newly signed platinum-selling artists.