Photo credit: Alex Lake
London, UK – [27th September 2024] – Renowned classical-soul pianist Alexis Ffrench is thrilled to announce the release of his latest album, Classical Soul Vol. 1, arriving today via Sony Classical. This much-anticipated project marks Ffrench’s first brand new studio recording in two years and promises to be a nostalgic journey through the timeless sounds that have shaped his unique musical DNA.
Drawing inspiration from his late father’s cherished record collection, Classical Soul Vol. 1 masterfully blends the soulful melodies of legends like Sam Cooke, and Etta James with the contemporary rhythms that defined Ffrench’s youth during the golden era of Hip-Hop. The album pays homage to icons such as Roberta Flack, particularly her unforgettable recording of ‘Killing Me Softly,’ which won the Grammy for Record of the Year 50 years ago seamlessly fusing these early influences with Ffrench’s signature classical style.
The album includes the recent single “Soar”, an uplifting multi-cultural anthem featuring Congolese singer-songwriter Fally Ipupa and Pentaonix’ cellist and beatboxer Kevin Olusola, celebrating people coming at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Recorded at the legendary Miraval Studios, owned by Brad Pitt and Damien Quintard, this album encapsulates the essence of Ffrench’s innovative sound—a blend of classical refinement with soulful, modern-day influences. Miraval Studios, known for its history of hosting some of the most groundbreaking recordings in music, serves as the perfect backdrop for this deeply personal and reflective piece.
Classical Soul Vol. 1 is a continuation of the poignant and avant-garde music that has defined Alexis Ffrench’s career, solidifying his status as one of the UK’s most distinctive and groundbreaking artists. As the pioneer of the ‘Classical Soul’ genre, Ffrench has captured the hearts of millions worldwide, nearing a staggering one billion streams across his catalogue. His previous chart-topping albums, Dreamland and Evolution, have established him as the fastest-growing classical artist globally, resonating with a diverse audience that spans generations.
“This album is a reflection of my musical heritage and the soundtrack of my life. It’s an ode to the music that has shaped me—not just as an artist, but as a person. I wanted to capture the soul of these influences while infusing them with the classical elements that are so intrinsic to my identity.” – Alexis Ffrench
Fans and newcomers alike can expect Classical Soul Vol. 1 to be an exploration of the rich tapestry of sounds that have influenced Ffrench throughout his life. With its heartfelt nods to the past and a modern twist, this album is poised to become a landmark in his already illustrious career.
A pioneering superstar of Classical Soul, Alexis’s sound refuses to be limited by genre, time period, or by expectations of the kind of musician he should be. Rather than leaning into the narrow, traditional understandings of ‘classical’, Alexis instead leans outward, expansive in his perspective, drawing on a mosaic of influences that takes the listener by the hand and leads them on a journey through a world of possibility.