Innovative New York based jazz vocalist songwriter Juliet Varnedoe released her debut album “Cajun Bleu” on April 12th 2024, presenting her imaginative interpretation of Cajun musical traditions.
As a producer and songwriter, Varnedoe brings a highly original blend of music which combines New Orleans blues with the French cabaret drama of Juliette Gréco and the lyrical wit of Blossom Dearie. Growing up in Louisiana with a German father and Cajun mother, Juliet’s formative years were filled with sounds of Acadian folk songs, jazz standards, and classical piano lessons.
With over a decade of moves across the United States, Juliet returned to her native Louisiana after receiving a Don Quixote Grant and Macdowell Fellowship which enabled her to study Cajun French and Acadian music in the Bayou Teche region. It was here that the seeds of Cajun Bleu were planted.
The result not only presents a fresh, authentic twist on the rich and varied American music tradition, but narrates a tale of independence, exploration, nostalgia, and self-discovery, as seen through the lens of a resilient Cajun spirit that steadfastly moves to preserve the unique French American culture in the southeastern lands.
The assembled musicians offer a unique mix of instruments that range from the tuba and trombone to the accordion and electric keys, conjuring memories of both the old and new. On one end of the spectrum, Clark Gayton (trombone/tuba) serves as a living link to the past as the great- grand nephew of New Orleans legend Manuel ‘Fess’ Manetta. On the other hand, drummer Shawn Pelton brings a contemporary flair as the go-to percussionist for the Saturday Night Live TV show.
Together, they create a sonic tapestry that can evoke the pioneering spirit of King Oliver’s Creole Band one moment and the sultry French sophistication of pop icon Serge Gainsbourg. The artistic vision was masterfully pulled together by Brooklyn-based producer Ben Rubin, also known for his role as a bassist and mixer at House of Cha Cha. Rubin seamlessly blends the electronic and acoustic sides into one sparkling sonic whole. Coincidentally, Rubin and Varnedoe came close to crossing paths in the 90’s at the legendary Bruno’s club, founded by Juliet’s husband, where Ben performed with the Dred Scott trio. They didn’t realize the connection until the project was well underway.
This jazz-infused homage to the past and future of Cajun traditions brings together a rich heritage with a passion for American music which is both nuanced and irresistibly foot- tappingly feel-good.