Sean Mason - The Southern Suite

Sean Mason’s debut album, The Southern Suite, showcases the rising star’s unique blend of Southern elegance and urban sophistication. Praised by both Wynton and Branford Marsalis, Mason’s infectious, melodic compositions reflect his North Carolina roots and the vibrant energy of New York City. The album's standout track, "Closure," epitomizes this duality, representing the end of a chapter and expressing Mason’s defiant yet respectful approach to his musical heritage. Rooted in gospel nostalgia, "Closure" intersects the rhythm of swing with the contrapuntal techniques of classical music, embodying Mason’s freedom to break the rules while honoring his musical ancestors.

The genesis of "The Southern Suite" came from an all-star quintet handpicked by Mason: Tony Glausi (trumpet), Chris Lewis (tenor saxophone), Felix Moseholm (bass), and Domo Branch (drums). Recalling their first rehearsal, Mason says, “It was during the first rehearsal that we realized how special of a group we were. We had only played through my first two songs when we all stopped, looked at each other, smiled... and said, ‘Whoa—we should record this.’”

Mason describes the album as being situated at the intersection of ‘renaissance’ and ‘street culture,’ with each song representing a deviation from traditionalism and the cultural norms he often felt pressured to conform to. "The Southern Suite" portrays a resolution of these polar forces and stands as a bold statement of purpose from Mason, who is well on his way to becoming a leading pianist and composer of his time.

Born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, Sean Mason began playing piano at the age of 13, teaching himself by ear to play the music he was most attracted to. His approach quickly evolved into a highly original language, steeped in the sound of the South and allowing an extended time for groove while displaying a vocabulary far beyond his years. As a bandleader, Mason leads the Sean Mason Quartet, a band assembled to play his original music, which has been described as highly melodic and infectious.

"The Southern Suite" captures Mason’s journey and his resolve to embrace and embody paradoxical concepts through his musical language. It is a testament to his generational talent and a significant contribution to the world of jazz.