FV MUSIC BLOG REVIEW OF “THE ASSUMPTION”

Hailing from Chicago, musician Michele Thomas has released the captivating album ‘The Assumption’ in March 2022. It is a jazz record that puts Thomas as an artist at the top of her game.

‘No More’ opens the release to an attention-grabbing drumbeat before the full band enter, laying the solid foundations for Michele Thomas’s breathtaking vocal performance. Her voice is filled with heart and soul and instantly captivates the audience.

‘These Days’ is features gorgeous keys, a compelling rhythm section and charming vocals. We adore ‘Spiral’; it has beautiful, unexpected chordal progressions. Thomas’s vocal performance takes the listener on unexpected twists and turns, which keeps the listener on their toes.

Finally, ‘Can’t Find My Way Home’ closes the release, and it has the listener reaching for the repeat button!

Comments

Thomas began a crowdfunding campaign to make and release this superb record. She says about the process, “Community has played a huge role in my life. When people invest in you, and you do what you love, it can be very impactful.”

She continues, “I think my story has been about finding myself while growing up with a strong community where so many things have come from my friends and colleagues.”

Influences

Thomas cites her influences as coming from artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Dianne Reeves and Cassandra Wilson. We can hear these muses on ‘The Assumption’ but make no mistake, Michele Thomas is a musician who stands shouldered to shoulder with these powerhouse artists.

Thomas has been joined by musicians Chris Mahieu – Rhodes/piano, Chris Greene – saxophones, Clark Sommers – bass, Neal Alger – guitar, Jeff Hedberg – trumpet, and Darren Scorza – drums on this superb album. Together they have created a piece of art that is timeless.

So make sure you add ‘The Assumption’ to your weekday playlist. Michele Thomas is an exceptional talent who you need to hear.

FVMusicBlog March 2022