(April _, 2024) Jazz/funk bassist Christian de Mesones makes multiple statements by titling his upcoming album You Only Live Twice. de Mesones is a fan of James Bond films and the album’s title is a nod toward the fifth movie in the 007 franchise.
However, de Mesones also had some deeply personal reasons for selecting You Only Live Twice. The title serves as recognition that this is de Mesones’ second full-length album, but also an acknowledgement that the bassist is taking full advantage of his second chance. De Mesones was a bass player in New York’s heavy metal scene, and he fully immersed himself in the decadent lifestyle of the era and genre.
De Mesones decided to turn his life around and jazz/funk played a significant role in the change. “Stay,” the single featured in this First Listen highlights the way that de Mesones fuses jazz and funky R&B. de Mesones’ bass playing serving as the funky foundation for this mid-tempo love song, and that allows the sweetly seductive vocals of Nes Powers to woo a guy to remain in his current location.
The track also sports some creative improvisation on guitar and saxophone. Check out “Stay” here. You Only Live Twice drops on April 12.
By Howard Dukes
Christian deMesonas ft. Nes Powers – “Stay”
