John Chiasson
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada | AFM
Music
Press
Chiasson gained recognition as the bass player for The Rankins, but he is far, far removed from those Celtic influences as he presents a very definitive study in jazz with a pop feel. A student of classical music and jazz. Chiasson is in a class of his own. The title track, which he wrote with George Antoniak, is the only original on the album and one hundred percent Cancon. This is a key track and very radio friendly. What follows is a treasure of simple yet beautifully-arranged standards, any one of which will attract the attention of A/C listeners. Chiasson's vocal property comforting and very persuasive. He wraps his own tonal quality around these wonderful standards as if they were his own. He is exceptional on Errol Garner's Misty with a generous vocal assist by Raylene Rankin, and on Billie Holiday's God Bless The Child, Hoagy Carmichael's Stardust, and Johnny Green's Body And Soul. And there's more, not a clunker in the bunch. That extra touch of instrumental class was provided by drummer Scott Ferguson, Dave Staples on keys, guitarists George Antoniak and Mark Alcorn, and, of course bassist Chiasson who also doubles on guitar. Produced by Chiasson and Ferguson and recorded at The Center For Art Tapes in Halifax. - RPM Magazine By Walt Grelis
Discography
Here In The Moonlight - CD
It Never Entered My Mind - CD
Lonely Hearts Club Jazz Band - CD
The #1 hit video of "Here In The Moonlight" is always available for viewing at:
www.jazzsinger.ca
Photos
Bio
Biography: John Chiasson
As multi-talented as he is musical, singer, bassist and guitarist John Chiasson does it all. From live performance to studio sessions, from jazz to pop to traditional, Chiasson’s creative scope is deep and multifaceted. 1997 saw the release of Here in the Moonlight -- a collection of light jazz numbers that marked his professional debut as vocalist. Audience response sent the video to #1 on the Bravo! Video Countdown, to the tune of healthy CD sales.
The album’s success speaks to the diverse influences that shape Chiasson’s musicianship, not only as instrumentalist and vocalist, but also as writer and arranger. Two years of classical/jazz training, combined with national and international tours with artists such as Lennie Gallant, Scott Parsons, The Rankin Family Band and Natalie MacMaster, have culminated in a thriving and diverse career.
While touring with Natalie MacMaster, Chiasson’s regular spotlight performance – a poignant rendition of “Autumn Leaves” – became a true showstopper and the inspiration behind his latest recording project. This new album will feature more jazz standards from the 1920-1960s era, all performed in the pop jazz style that fans have grown to expect from a performer who values tradition: “I love the way songs were written back then; no electronic gimmicks, just great music – a lost art.”
On record and in concert, Chiasson presents his audience with a pleasant, accessible form of jazz that draws on a variety of styles including Latin, Swing, and Blues to enrich the listening experience. This versatility lends itself to a range of venues, from an intimate engagement to a large-scale concert setting. His conscientious attitude, combined with over 20 years' involvement in the Canadian and international music scenes, make John Chiasson a performer in tune with his time, his audience, and his industry.
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