Irish jazz guitarist Hugh Buckley brings a fresh spin on familiar tunes from the 60s and 70s with Purple Dayz, his latest album. Known for his skilled interpretations of jazz standards and original compositions, Buckley ventures into pop and rock for this project, reimagining iconic songs from artists like the Isley Brothers, Jimmy Webb, Labi Siffre, the Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix. Joined by Scott Flanigan on organ and Shane O'Donovan on drums, Buckley forms an organ trio that breathes new life into these beloved tracks, infusing them with jazz textures and dynamic rhythmic twists.
A stand-out feature of Purple Dayz is the contribution of Hugh's son, Eoghan Buckley, who makes his vocal debut on two tracks, Wake Up Everybody and Imagine. The inclusion of vocals adds another layer of expressiveness, with Eoghan lending heartfelt delivery to John Lennon's Imagine, which Buckley has uniquely re-harmonized into a minor key for a darker, introspective take.
For Buckley, Purple Dayz is a personal journey through music that shaped his early years. "This project has been in the pipeline for some time now," he shares. "To play songs that resonate with me from my formative years with some of my favorite musicians and in one of my very favorite settings, the organ trio, is something special for me."
Each track is thoughtfully arranged, showcasing Buckley's inventive approach:
- I Hear You Knockin’ (Bartholomew/King) retains its rock spirit but is transformed with a funky groove and fresh chordal textures.
- Wide Eyed and Legless (Andy Fairweather Low) moves to a Latin beat, creating a vibrant contrast to the original.
- Hey There Lonely Girl (Schuman/Carr) captures a "down home" vibe, with Scott Flanigan’s groovy organ solo adding depth.
- Can’t Buy Me Love (Lennon/McCartney) swings in this version, complete with Buckley's harmonic twists.
- Purple Haze (Hendrix) closes with a funky feel, featuring the entire trio in a spirited reimagining.
Buckley is a self-taught guitarist and a staple of Ireland's jazz scene, having performed globally and worked with internationally acclaimed artists like Van Morrison, Georgie Fame, and Sheryl Bailey. With a discography spanning several acclaimed albums, his work displays both versatility and a deep love for jazz. Besides his performance career, Buckley is an educator, an author, and a seasoned arranger, always dedicated to enriching the jazz community.
Purple Dayz is more than an album—it’s an homage to the music that shaped a generation, offering Buckley's unique take on classics. This album invites listeners into an intimate yet innovative musical space, where jazz meets the anthems of yesterday with fresh, soulful energy.
To purchase a physical copy of Purple Dayz by mail, please send €17 (including postage and packaging) via PayPal to paypal.me/hughbuckleyguitar. For a digital download only, the cost is €10. The album will also be available on streaming platforms at a later date, allowing more listeners to experience Hugh Buckley's creative journey through the music that shaped him.
