Aria Jay is a musician and producer based out of Brooklyn, NY. She’s been singing and studying music since she was 11 years old.
Background
As an alternative R&B singer, Aria Jay has had a variety of key influences as she has grown into her own unique sound. Initially, she worked with opera master Judy Hages in studying the classical Bel Canto technique. Later down her academic path Aria found her way to The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in Manhattan. There, she studied jazz performance and composition.
After graduation, Aria collaborated and traveled with Josh Kwassman of Truth Revolution Records, and Viva Deconcini of Beat the Donkey/Taylor Mac.
In the past year, she worked with producer/drummer Cam Outlaw on her debut EP Growth, which will be released in the spring of 2017. She has also been active in playing solo shows and DJing on the Brooklyn music scene.
Thoughts
“He Said” is an exploration of Aria’s most personal reflections. It’s sweet and largely minimalistic, leaving the vast majority of the song to be filled with her vocals. A great stylistic choice, as the outcome is a concise, and undoubtedly beautiful experience. There’s very little filler here.
When the pace picks up, the song stops just short of becoming visceral, calmly exploring her options and articulating well. Narratively enjoyable, Aria here seems to be rather true to herself — and consequently relatable. At its closing, you can tell it’s an emotional release with the lantern, and even if you weren’t able to connect throughout the song, you may feel of sense of release and a weight off your shoulders anyway.
Credits
“He Said” was directed by Janet S. Kim. Aria Jay brings together Aria on vocals, Cameron Outlaw for production and drums, with Chris Ash on MPC and synths.
Support
You can find Aria Jay on Facebook, Instagram, Soundcloud and her own website.
