Manchester, United Kingdom
Release Date: 2024-05-07
Check out ReWorks Vol.2 here: ReWorks Vol.2 EP Link
In the vibrant heart of Manchester, the Neil C. Young Trio is redefining the boundaries of jazz. Led by the prodigious UK jazz guitarist Neil C. Young, the trio has carved out a unique space in the jazz landscape, blending soulful energy with harmonic sophistication. With their latest release, ‘ReWorks Vol.2’, they invite listeners on a journey through reimagined classics, infused with their signature improvisational flair and technical prowess.
An Interview with Neil C. Young
1. Can you tell us a bit about the Neil C. Young Trio?
Neil C. Young Trio is a jazz ensemble based in Manchester, United Kingdom. Led by the talented UK jazz guitarist Neil C. Young, the trio is renowned for their soulful and energetic performances, described by Bill Milkowski of Jazz Times as ‘full of soul and energy’ and ‘harmonically sophisticated.’ Our music draws from a diverse range of influences, including the Blue Note library, Central and North American music, and Western Classical traditions, all interwoven with improvisation and organization.
2. What inspired the creation of ‘ReWorks Vol.2’?
‘ReWorks Vol.2’ is part of an ongoing project where we repurpose existing hooks and established patterns to generate fresh musical expressions. The goal is to draw out unique elements within each track, flipping them to create new musical landscapes. It’s an adventure in Action Jazz and Grunge Fusion, aiming to respect the lyrical content while presenting it in a novel way.
3. Could you describe the creative process behind this EP?
The creative process involved two main approaches. First, we analyzed existing ideas to understand how they could be developed or contrasted. Second, we played freely to discover new ideas without analytical constraints. This back-and-forth between technical analysis and pure creativity helped us craft the unique sound of ‘ReWorks Vol.2’.
4. How would you describe the sound of the Neil C. Young Trio?
Our sound is a fusion of all the music I’ve grown up with, centered around an electric guitar-led trio. It’s grungy, a bit gnarly, with consistent themes of riffs or longer repeating melodic/bass lines. This foundation allows for improvisation and exploration, creating a dynamic and engaging musical experience.
5. What elements did you focus on in this project?
For ‘ReWorks Vol.2’, we focused on elements within the tracks themselves, drawing inspiration from their unique features. For instance, we flipped rhythmic structures and melodic phrases to create new feels and sonic environments. This internal focus allowed us to bring out new angles and perspectives in each track.
6. What inspired you to start making music?
I’ve been making music from a very young age, influenced by my musician father. My parents allowed me to find my own path, making the journey of creating music enjoyable and not a grind. Music has always been a form of therapy for me, a way to express myself and solve problems creatively.
7. How do you plan to keep your fans engaged?
We plan to keep our fans engaged through live gigs, recording sessions, and regular updates on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. There’s one more ‘ReWorks’ EP set to release later this year, completing the set of four. After that, we’ll focus on writing original music, potentially incorporating a string section to balance our discography.
8. Can you provide further details about your upcoming releases?
The third volume of the ‘ReWorks’ project is slated for an autumn release, bringing the total to four EPs. This release will feature extended improvised solos and a more live-sounding performance. Tracks include Prince’s ‘Take Me With U’, Elvis Costello’s ‘Almost Blue’, and Madonna’s ‘Crazy for You’, giving it an 80’s vibe.
9. Did you collaborate with anyone on this project?
While I led the initial arrangement ideas, the ‘ReWorks’ project involved collaboration with other performing and recording musicians. Their input during rehearsals and recording sessions was crucial in crafting the final performances, making it a collective effort rather than a solo direction.
10. Is there a message or theme you hope listeners will grasp from your music?
The ‘ReWorks’ collection aims to support and continue the themes of the original tracks. For example, ‘A Mouse In A Windmill’ continues the playful story of a mouse, while ‘What’s Going On?’ reflects on social and environmental issues still relevant today. Each track is meant to resonate with its original message, albeit presented in a new musical context.
As Neil C. Young Trio continues to innovate and enchant audiences with their unique sound, ‘ReWorks Vol.2’ stands as a testament to their creative vision and musical dexterity. Be sure to experience this fresh take on jazz classics, available now on Spotify.
