My World is the Sun
Dominique Fils-Aimé
Ensoul Records (singwithmi.bandcamp.com/album/my-world-is-the-sun)
Captivating Montreal-based vocalist and composer, Dominique Fils-Aimé has already left her indelible mark on the international jazz world, having received two JUNO awards for “Vocal Jazz Album of the Year” as well as the 2024 FELIX Award for Best Album for her release, Run Deep. Her fifth studio release, My World is the Sun, features mainly her own distinctive compositions, as well as a deep dive into the marriage of blues, soul, jazz and other contemporary forms. Fils-Aime is well-known for her skill at lyrical interpretation, and regularly takes her audiences on surprising, moving and soulful journeys – and this recording is no exception. A sonic, sensory and emotional treat, rife with thought provoking lyrics as well as diverse musical motifs.
Fils-Aimé has assembled a fine musical coterie for this project, including producer/engineer Jacques Roy; Claudette Thomas on upright/electric bass; Jacques Roy on drums; Harvey Bien-Aimee on keyboards; David Osei Afrifa on piano; Hichem Khalifa on trumpet, Elli Miller Maboungou on percussion; Shawn Mativetsky on tabla; Etienne Miousse on guitar and Steeve St-Pierre on violin. The programme begins with Ma Melodie (Intro) written by Patricia Carli and Leo Missir. A simple and beautiful air, performed with a single, unapologetic guitar and Fils-Aimé’s warm, supple alto voice. A remarkable track is Sea of Clouds, where a mystical, chant-like melodic line, morphs into an esoteric journey, replete with gorgeously arranged, diatonic layers of vocals.
Also stunning is The River. Soulful and healing, Fils-Aimé’s powerful vocal performance and arrangement embraces the heart of African-American Gospel music (whose roots extend deeply into mother Africa). A true stand-out is the thoroughly delicious Going Home. Composed by Nans Clastrier and Fils-Aimé, this song features fine guitar work as well as compelling lyrics and an intoxicating mood.
