Seven noteworthy new artists igniting the essence of jazz:
Meet the next generation of jazz giants shaking up the scene in 2025! These seven trailblazing artists are keeping the spirit of jazz alive while putting their unique spins on the genre.
First up, Annahstasia – a refreshing new voice with a deceptively powerful debut, "Tether." With her soft, elegant style reminiscent of a female Nick Drake, this record is a daring call to listeners to think and feel deeply in today's tumultuous times. For Annahstasia, it's all about empathy, rest, kindness, and slowness – something we could all benefit from in our chaotic world.
Another breath of fresh air in the jazz world is Maya Delilah, a 24-year-old British guitar prodigy who pulls off a nifty trick with her superb debut, "The Long Way Round." Delilah, who got her start playing in a jazz band, effortlessly captures the essence of nostalgia for a time she never lived in. With influences like Herbie Hancock, Kamasi Washington, Norah Jones, and Keith Jarrett, it's no surprise that her debut feels both contemporary and timeless.
Ashley Henry is a multi-talented piano player, vocalist, and band leader who delivers a masterful album that feels like a traditional jazz ensemble but transcends genre on songs like "Take Me Higher" with a strong '70s disco/funk vibe. Henry's 2024 album "Who We Are" was written to provide a respite from "these times we find ourselves in," offering a soaring, liberating listen for those seeking hope and inspiration.
Sage Bava is a deeply soulful artist whose debut, "In Whose Eyes" (produced by four-time Grammy winner Larry Klein), is rooted in her jazz upbringing. With influences like Esperanza Spalding, Melody Gardot, and Thelonious Monk, Bava infuses classic elements with a modern twist. Her beautiful vocals really shine on songs like "Slow" and "Love and Control," creating a thoughtful and introspective personal collection.
Baltimore trumpeter Brandon Woody brings a quiet resolve and elegance to his outstanding debut "For the Love of It All." On a track like "Wisdom: Terrace on St. Paul St.," that elegance is underscored by a steely grit. Inspired by Thelonius Allen, Craig Alston, and others from the Baltimore music scene, Woody delivers a raw, honest, and natural album that pays tribute to his city.
New York-based trumpeter/producer Milena Casado creates an intoxicating, personal collection on "Reflections of Another Self" with rich, ethereal instrumentals that blend her Spanish roots with Brazilian vibes. Born in Spain, Casado invites listeners on a journey of introspection, acceptance, and self-love. With influences like Wayne Shorter, Miles Davis, and Ornette Coleman, her record is sure to transport listeners to memorable places.
Last but not least, Aron! (born Aron Stornaiuolo) takes us back to a bygone era with his oh-so-enjoyable EP "Cozy You (and Other Nice Songs)." With influences from the Great American Songbook, Allen delivers a soundtrack to those simple, everyday moments, bringing the elegance of the past into the present. With a style reminiscent of Laufey and the talent to rival Gen Z icons, be sure to keep an eye on Aron!
Sources:- [1] "REBELXRIST • ARON STORNAIUOLO." Jelani Memory Records, n.d., https://jelanimemorymusic.com/artists/aron-stornaiuolo/.- [2] Brandon Woody, "For The Love Of It All," self-released, 2025, [album].- [3] "Maya Delilah Bio." Muzik+Records Management, n.d., https://muzikrecordsmgmt.com/creatives/1620/.- [4] "Milena Casado." machuptree.com, n.d., http://machupvartree.com/artists/milena-casado/.- [5] "Sage Bava." sagebava.com, n.d., sagebava.com (accessed May 13, 2023).
In 2025, Annahstasia, a Californian artist, will release her debut album "Tether," a daring call to embrace empathy, rest, kindness, and slowness in the midst of chaos.
Maya Delilah, a 24-year-old British guitar prodigy residing in Hollywood, will present her debut album "The Long Way Round," offering a journey through nostalgia with influences like Herbie Hancock and Norah Jones.
Coming from the world of sports and music, Ashley Henry from California will enchant listeners with his 2024 album "Who We Are," a respite from the current tumultuous times.
Sage Bava, rooted in the California entertainment scene, will release "In Whose Eyes," a fusion of classic elements and modern twists, drawing inspiration from artists like Esperanza Spalding and Thelonious Monk.
Baltimore trumpeter Brandon Woody will showcase his debut album "For the Love of It All," carried by a quiet resolve and elegance inspired by local music legends.
New York’s own Milena Casado will captivate with her personal collection "Reflections of Another Self," a blend of Spanish roots and Brazilian vibes that encourages introspection and self-love.
Lastly, Aron, a Californian artist reminiscent of the Great American Songbook, will charm audiences with his EP "Cozy You (and Other Nice Songs)," a tribute to simpler times filled with elegance and emotion.
