Mondays with Morgan: Jocelyn Gould – new album ‘So Delighted’

Emerging from Winnipeg’s rich musical landscape, Jocelyn Gould has solidified her position as a leading figure in contemporary Canadian jazz guitar. With the release of her sixth album, So Delighted, on October 9 via La Reserve Records, Gould embarks on an exploration of the classic organ trio format, a departure from her earlier piano quartet projects.

So Delighted features a lineup of Hammond B3 organist Ben Paterson and drummer Fabio Ragnelli, complemented by guest appearances from saxophonist Christine Jensen and guitarist Joey Landreth. This configuration allows Gould to dive into a groove-oriented, blues-infused jazz tradition, aligning with the lineage of guitarists like Wes Montgomery and Kenny Burrell who have historically thrived in organ-based ensembles.

The album presents a blend of five original compositions alongside reinterpretations of works by notable composers such as Richard Rodgers and Gerald Wilson. In particular, Gould’s selection of Rodgers’ “The Sweetest Sounds” was inspired by her personal history, recalling the version she frequently watched as a child, reimagined here with the rhythmic feel of a Grant Green-style bossa nova. This choice reflects her intent to fuse her early musical influences with the textures of the organ trio.

Another standout is the rendition of Gerald Wilson’s “Teri,” a poignant tribute composed by Wilson in memory of his daughter. Gould’s decision to arrange the piece for a small ensemble, rather than its traditional big band setting, showcases the organ trio’s capacity to convey deep emotional narratives through a more intimate sonic palette. Notably, the track emphasizes melody over solo improvisation, highlighting the expressive power of thematic interpretation in jazz.

Gould’s compositional approach remains firmly rooted in melody, a principle she has nurtured since adolescence. Her creative process often involves crafting a strong melodic line first, followed by harmonies that complement or contrast depending on the complexity of the tune. This method seeks to maintain the emotional core of each piece while allowing harmonic exploration to enrich the listening experience.

Collaborations with fellow Canadian musicians Christine Jensen and Joey Landreth bring additional dimensions to So Delighted. Jensen, a saxophonist with whom Gould has shared multiple big-band engagements, contributes a supportive and nuanced presence. Landreth, a renowned slide guitarist from Winnipeg known primarily for his work in country music, offers a cross-genre synergy that enhances the album’s textural variety.

Growing up in Winnipeg, a city marked by its harsh winters and vibrant, self-sustaining music culture, Gould’s artistry reflects a connection to a community that has produced notable talents such as Joni Mitchell and Neil Young. The city’s isolation has fostered a distinctive creative environment, encouraging musicians to develop unique voices.

Looking ahead, Gould has spent much of the current year on extensive tours, performing globally and building her international profile. With plans to pause for several months to focus on composition and personal pursuits, she aims to resume touring by early 2027. Although no UK dates are confirmed at present, returning to Britain remains a priority for the guitarist.

So Delighted stands as a testament to Jocelyn Gould’s evolving artistry and her ability to reinterpret jazz traditions through a contemporary lens. The record not only honors the legacy of guitar-organ collaborations but also marks a pivotal moment in her career as she continues to expand her musical horizons.