Voor Naima Joris melancholy is never far away. Even a cheerful song is inevitably soaked with the deep blues of her voice. Together with the balanced power and musical ingenuity of Brussels Jazz Orchestra, the singer undertakes an atmospheric journey along the repertoire of, among others, Amália Rodrigues, Leonard Bernstein, Cesária Évora, Abbey Lincoln and Stromae. Although the project title Saudade is usually translated as an emotional mix of loss, missing and love, the concept is approached by BJO and Naima Joris with a lively musical energy. Saudade is a stimulating project for both parties: by working together with the incomparable talent that Naima Joris is, the 17-piece Brussels Jazz Orchestra wants to redefine what a large jazz orchestra can be. While BJO remains faithful to the dynamic and energetic sound for which the band is known, an intimate, quiet and subtle side is also highlighted. In this way, the orchestra creates space for the different depths of Naima’s voice and Saudade testifies to
a musical intimacy that will leave no one untouched.