The freshest in vocal jazz
#1 NACC Jazz Album Debut
"Ford steps into the spotlight with a full arsenal of well-penned originals and a voice that suggests he has studied for years. It has soul and is technically assured. His vocal prowess is the icing on the proverbial cake."
"New Standards might have the air of a jazz album, but its soul-based vocalist transcends the jazz idiom to a cross-over appeal that will light the fire of any soul-singer aficionado. Ford’s voice easily moves and stretches in any given direction he takes it to suit the mood of the tune."
"There is an immediate recognition of Al Jarreau in his voice that gives the album a reminiscent excitement of vocal prowess. A wonderful array of original vocal jazz tunes with a respectful nod to the legacy of vocal jazz, performed in a soulful way, with an impressive instrument in Ford’s voice."
"If you can't sing it live, you can't really sing it."
-Chaka Khan
In this era of emerging spiritual and socio-political consciousness, current music in the Jazz idiom fails to address my personal struggles, secrets, and reconciliation necessary for real growth and freedom as a person and an artist. Though the work never ends, working through the effects of childhood poverty, fatherlessness, and emotional abandonment were cornerstones of personal evolution. These are universal themes, and just like love, beauty, and joy, they warrant a space for contemplation in Jazz.
-Darrian Ford
