Today, emerging soul and jazz vocalist Alicia Waller released her debut album Louder, Then. A classically trained singer with a master’s in international relations and music diplomacy, the release finds Waller using her cross-cultural expertise to explore the vast tapestries of Black music in America. Defying the patriarchal boundaries of feminine expression and forged from a conviction for deep development and introspection, Louder, Then is a declaration to herself and the world that her voice will be heard.
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When asked about her return to jazz and soul, Waller said “I’d been looking at music from across the African diaspora as part of my study of ‘vernacular music.’ After a period examining the incredible diversity of Black sound globally, I became curious about what it would mean to contribute my own cultural experience to the practice. This eventually led to writing in my mother tongue, which resulted in the creation of this project and its predecessor. Through both, my aim has been to explore African-American vernacular musics alongside other forms, influences, and themes that have informed my journey along the way.”
Album – Louder, Then – YouTube
Co-produced by bassist/arranger Marcos Varela (Gary Bartz, Billy Hart and Geri Allen), Alicia Waller’s debut album is an unapologetically ambitious introduction to her musical world. Steeped in her love of contemporary R&B and jazz, and filtered through a global array of influences, the release represents the culmination of years of creative evolution and collaboration. Following her 2020 EP, Some Hidden Treasure, the duo’s partnership deepened, aiming to replace traditional songwriting with “world building”. The result is filled with rich, diverse textures that emphasize the density and conversation between parts.
Beyond her influences, Waller’s music aims to defy the false stereotypes of a female artist, opting for a sound that is heavy, driven and rebellious. Conceived in dialogue with a variety of musical idioms within the African diaspora, her new work draws upon an informed and explorative repertoire to create new tapestries; ranging from her renowned plush, dreamlike sound, to contemporary soul bangers.
photo credit Kendra Irene
