Photo: Robert Albion (Albion Productions)
Pop fusion saxophonist and producer Nick Stefanacci introduces his new single/music video, “Fantasy,” a track lifted from his forthcoming EP, Secrets, set to release on May 10, 2024. Carefully crafted, Secrets highlights the evolution of Stefanacci’s sound.
Talking about the upcoming EP, Stefanacci says, “After seeing how well my first smooth jazz singles had done on radio and Smooth Jazz Top 100 Charts, I felt that it was a good time to dive in and release a whole body of work in that genre. I feel the writing on this set of tunes is really special, and collaborating with such phenomenal artists has been an absolute privilege.”
He goes on to speak about how “Fantasy” came together, “‘Fantasy’ was just one of those songs that just worked. Everything clicked from the start of the writing process, through all the production. It all just worked. ‘Fantasy’ draws inspiration from some of the legends of R&B like Donny Hathaway and Luther Vandross; I just wanted to recreate that classic R&B vibe, and I think it’s pretty darn close.”
Secrets follows on the heels of Stefanacci’s previous releases, including four long players and three EPs, spanning pop, funk, and R&B. Secrets sees him moving in a different direction, venturing into the realm of smooth jazz.
Fantasy
Artists featured on Secrets include Rich Aveo, who provides vocals on “Christmas Eve” and pianist Carrnell Harrell on “The Masquerade,” as well Mel Brown on bass, and Eric Valentine on drums. In a rare display of his gifts, Stefanacci takes over the lead vocals on “Fantasy” and “King of Pop.”
Along with performing around the world, Stefanacci has shared the stage with Bernard “Pretty” Purdie, Derek Trucks, The Four Tops, and hip-hop legends Ja Rule, and DMC (of Run-D.M.C.). Stefanacci was also the featured saxophonist in the series finale of NBC’s smash hit, Lipstick Jungle, starring Brooke Shields
“Fantasy” opens on a creamy R&B intro flowing into a delicious, swaying groove, followed by the entry of Stefanacci’s soaring saxophone, dressed in velvety, glossy tones. Stefanacci’s evocative tenor imbues the lyrics with warm, quixotic timbres. On the solo section, Stefanacci’s sax sculpts textures that glide, wheel, and ascend with luscious vibrancy.
At once charming and intimate, “Fantasy” reveals coils of smooth jazz atop an infectious rhythm, resulting in a captivating tune.
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