October 28, 2023 – Welcome back to Another Groove, our series dedicated to new music that is neither pure soul nor R&B but which contains elements of those genres and may please your ears. This week we feature the track “Closure” by Sean Mason.
Mason is a Julliard-trained pianist and composer from North Carolina, where he grew up playing piano in church. After catching the attention of Wynton Marsalis, Mason appeared in performances at Jazz at Lincoln Center and was signed to the Center’s record label, Blue Engine, which has recently released his new album, The Southern Suite. Mason credits Ray Charles as an early influence, and his music indeed shares a similar earthy soul and swing.
Our featured track finds Mason leading his quintet through a playful, deeply melodic piece full of gospel hooks and warm Southern vibes. Enjoy.
By Robb Patryk
