Following an emphatic creative run of back-to-back album releases over the past few years, including 2021’s ‘Reflections’ and 2022’s ‘Sketches’, Paul Grant returns with a Spring-time bop that’s ready to bring the sun home. ‘Rivers’ acts as the introduction to his forthcoming ‘Forward’ EP.
The track is a continuation of a collaborative spirit that’s seen Paul team up with the likes of Kiefer, Braxton Cook and Emmavie. This time, Grammy-nominated producer Chris Keysis brought into the mix, adding euphoric synth pads and his own improvisational flare to complement Paul’s expansive, Brazilian-flavoured arrangement.
Talking about ‘Rivers’, Paul explains “Rivers is influenced by Brazilian music of the 70’s and features orchestral elements and keyboards by my friend and producer Chris Keys, who was recently nominated for a Grammy after his contributions to Lizzo’s latest album.”
Paul has been steadily making his mark as a go-to producer within the jazz-hip-hop scene on the west coast and beyond. Upcoming EP ‘Forward’ continues with his mission to bridge the spaces between genres, and cultivate a community of collaborators that continue to push his music in exciting new directions. With hip-hop as the canvas, Paul’s paints of choice are the hues of jazz, R&B and Brazilian funk. Other collaborators on the project include vocalist brayla, and Grammy-nominee Billy (Will Jordan).
A multi-instrumentalist & producer from California who has produced, mixed, and mastered four solo albums (and one collaborative album with Adrienne Indigo), Paul has worked with a range of talented artists, including Kiefer, Braxton Cook, and Emmavie. He’s also built a bond with frequent collaborators Amy Ahn, Morgan Burrs, and Benjamin Totten. In addition to production, he also does session guitar work for other artists, and has found support from the likes of Soho Radio, Stereofox and Iggy Magazine.
Wonderful series of collaborations showcasing a breadth of soul, rooted in Detroit's rich musical history. Filled with chunky hip-hop and r&b-infused licks, touches of house and breakbeat and a wonderful cast of guest vocalists, it's a really rich album that rewards you on repeated listens. Jason Piper
I love a good concept album and this brief overview of the artist's love-life-cycle is brilliant. Doesn't hurt that she's clearly a lovely person and makes you feel privileged to share her personal journey. Just another mark of a great artist! mattogravy