It’s surprising that Jayson Norris’ album Freedom Twenty Eight is his first offering to New Zealand listeners considering the London-based Kiwi has successfully released two albums overseas and regularly sells out shows internationally.
Moving to the UK in 2004, Jayson set to work immediately. By tirelessly gigging about London, hard work and epic live shows, he carved a niche in the music scene, making a name for himself.
Now a man in demand, the fruits of his labour are paying off and his unique sound, which sees him combine rich earthy vocals with a blend of soul, roots and rock has secured him residencies at a range of respected venues and led to Jayson sharing the stage with huge names such as Andrea Bocelli, Paul McCartney and Mark Knopfler.
Not content to rest on his current overseas success, Jayson – a proud New Zealander – has now got his sights set on home and is emphatically making his mark with Freedom Twenty Eight. The album – a dynamic blend of sounds, subject matter and genres – conveys Jayson’s explosive and diverse live show and captures the soul and emotion of him both musically and in his heartfelt lyrics.
The first singe from the album “Freedom To Live” (released Feb 2010) stands as a mark of respect and a means for remembering our forefathers who fought in the wars for our freedom. It is also a personal homage from Jayson Norris to his late grandfather Charlie Norris who was in the 28th Maori Battalion.
In contrast the album’s second single, “Love Someone” (released May 2010) is a playful pop song about love gone wrong, featuring Jayson’s mate, Jason Kerrison (Opshop) on backing vocals. Perfectly timed for summer, current single “Window” combines big sing-along chorus hooks, cheeky ukuleles and a rollicking bouncing beat, which has helped to make it a current live favourite.
To celebrate the release of his NZ debut Freedom Twenty Eight, Jayson is back home for the summer and will be embarking on a NZ tour with special guest Chris Cope starting in Christchurch. A testament to Jayson’s talent, he’s also been asked to support and join the cast of Fly My Pretties for their two Summer Showcase dates this January, will be playing two stages (Dub & Roots and Amphitheatre) at Homegrown and will be performing at the Jameson Jam Sessions with The Black Seeds.
Entry is free up until 10pm and then it will be $10 so make sure you get there early...
