Reaching In / Reaching Out

Reaching In / Reaching Out is an extended story told through music, spoken-word poetry, and visual art of a protagonist's journey from struggles of isolation, low self-worth, social anxiety, addiction, and loss, to finding peace, acceptance, belonging, and a sense of community. This multi-movement suite is composed and performed in a classical-jazz fusion style. Using powerful musical expression and recurring motivic gestures the work conveys deep emotions and extra-musical meaning. Supplemented by poetry, the instrumental music itself and the painting of Reaching In guides us through a narrative of overcoming personal challenges to offer an uncertain, yet hopeful future. 

The two-album project is in six acts, where each song is a “scene” in the story. The instruments of the ensemble generally represent large ideas. Piano—the thoughts of the protagonist; Strings—the emotions of the protagonist; Horn section—engagement with others and the community; Rhythm section—the protagonist's heartbeat, energy and well-being; with each instrument also having a voice in telling the story. See below for a list of tunes, solos, contributing artists, and additional meaning behind the music.

Reaching In album was released on June 23, 2023. Reaching Out album official release date is May 24, 2024.

Please listen to an interview with James about the big picture ideas in the Reaching In / Reaching Out project on the Paradigms Podcast with host Baruch. 

Trailer for Reaching In; Photo of JME at Music and Beyond Festival (2022)

Reviews for Reaching In

“The work is at times theatrical in its parts, sometimes classical, sometimes jazz-inspired, but undoubtedly a grand and beautiful artistic creation, somewhat radical, which will only appeal to those of you capable of being moved by a work of art to the point of feeling the need to discuss it among friends. Few works of this style are created nowadays, which is all the more reason to take an interest in it.” — Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move

“The mix of classical and jazz is superb in this album… a storytelling narrative that is extremely thought provoking and fourth wall breaking, a true masterpiece…somehow, he keeps surprising us and keeps raising the musical bar, till the very last second of ‘Reaching In’… This album could not be recommended enough, it’s absolutely mind blowing and entrancing.”  — Hamza Sharkas, Sistra

"...a curious and compelling concept album... The confluence of jazz and classical music inspires some lush textural arrangements." — David Reed,  Kingston Whig Standard

"...Reaching In is a gorgeous showcase in neo-classical instrumentation and conceptual pursuits from the James McGowan Ensemble." —  Mike Mineo, Obscure Sound

“The set concludes with the subtly Afro-Cuban flavored “Acceptance,” a serene and melodic way to wrap up a fascinating and musically luxurious album.” — Bill Kopp, Musoscribe

“Reaching In is not the first album to tackle these themes, but it’s definitely one of the best and it’s executed with delicacy, great care, and a startling amount of talent.” — Cody Conard, Big Take-Over Magazine

“With each masterful composition of the 16-track named after a personal struggle, there’s a progressing in the journey as well as in the music. From the fragmented, fractured, emotion of ‘Internal Conflict’ to the smooth, cello-led sorrow of ‘Acceptance’ to the cool, empowering and hopeful groove of ‘Time to Rise,’ the story of personal conflict and healing all there, laid out in beautifully composed music.” — Kath Galasso, OnStage Magazine 

“The arrangements are beautiful, and the combinations of instruments are well-chosen. With the juxtaposition and contrasting genres coming together in many places, there is a continuity – much like life. Reaching In is an interesting, rich, album that demonstrates James McGowan’s skill at looking beyond genre definitions and using elements of more than one to convey his thoughts and desires.” — Sammy Stein, Something Else!

“Each instrument is used with precision, with not one member of the group outshining the other. Sure, there are standout guitar lines, piano rolls to die for, and a brass section that screams ‘yeah we know our shit, pal’ but altogether, they trade solo bravado for the chance to make an instant classic together… I highly highly highly suggest you listen to this sprawling sixteen song collection. Who knows, maybe you’ll hear your story in these tracks as much as I do.” — Harry, EMCEE

“This is an excellent example of a composer thinking beyond one particular musical style and focusing on what needs to happen to convey the story that starts from within. The writing is first-class, as is the playing, and the storytelling so vivid and emotionally connected. It is not often I hear such an affecting work of art that is equally theatrical, classical, and jazz inspired.” — Simon Defty, Simply Jazz Talk

"Mix of impressionist cello and piano give solace on "Inner Peace" with Moxon give some rockish guitar on the melodic “Augmented Reality.” None of the juxtapositions feel forced, and the music feels comfortable guiding you through the pilgrim's progress." — George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly

"The collection of sixteen tracks combines bold tonal connections, juicy instrumental expression, recurring themes and several key musical motifs. Thus, the concept album holds together, it does not fall apart. And there's always something to listen to. The listener is constantly surprised, he is captured by images, his imagination blossoms; the music is like a soundtrack to an imaginary movie. Of course, sensitive and expressive recitations also evoke imagination and personal reflection.” — Jan Hocek, Jazz Port (translated from Czech)

“Reaching In sees the ensemble tap into a rich blend of jazz, rock, classical music, and a bit of a flow totally of its own that is a rich and rewarding listen.” — Will Oliver, We All Want Someone to Shout For

“Reaching In is thoughtful, inspirational, and highly recommended as a motivational listening experience.” — Midwest Book Review

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros

NOHO Arts District.com

Descriptions for tracks in REACHING IN 

Act 1

1. Imagine, Part 1 - Jamaal Amir Akbari, spoken word; Despax string quartet and Modasaurus jazz quartet. The first six tunes explore the depth of internal turmoil (of isolation, grief, anxiety) and the hopeful commitment to do the self-work of reaching in.

2. Thoughts and Prayers - Despax string quartet and Modasaurus jazz quartet. Solo by Valérie Despax (cello).

3. Internal Conflict - Despax string quartet and Modasaurus jazz quartet.

4. Grief and Despair - Despax string quartet. Joined by Modasaurus jazz quartet (free improvisation from 4:35 to the end).

5. Uncertain Future - Modasaurus jazz quartet. Solos by Alex Moxon (guitar), JP Lapensée (bass), James McGowan (piano).

6. Reaching In - Despax string quartet and Modasaurus jazz quartet. Solos: James McGowan (piano), JP Lapensée (bass)

Act 2

7. Imagine, Part 2 - Jamaal Amir Akbari, spoken word; Cal McGowan (cello), Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solo: Alex Moxon (guitar). These next five tunes explore one's efforts to rise out of turmoil, while dealing with mental health issues and escapism, eventually coming to terms with the simple reality that you are worth it.

8. Time to Rise I - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solo by Petr Cancura (tenor sax).

9. Tripping Triceratops - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solos by Alex Moxon (guitar), Mike Tremblay (tenor sax), Jamie Holmes (drums).

10. Augmented Reality - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solo by Mark Ferguson (trombone).

11. Simple Reality - Despax string quartet, James McGowan and JP Lapensee.

Act 3

12. Imagine, Part 3 - Jamaal Amir Akbari, spoken word; Despax string quartet and Modasaurus jazz quartet. These next five tunes build on efforts to reach in to seek peace. A bittersweet realization is that inner peace may not be possible but efforts to understand oneself and one's inner child can lead to self-acceptance. 

13. Inner Peace - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solos by James McGowan (piano), Olivier Philippe-Auguste (viola), Cendrine Despax (violin).

14. Inner Child - James McGowan (solo piano).

15. Through My Tears I Cry - Despax string quartet and Modasaurus jazz quartet. Solo by Jean Despax (violin).

16. Acceptance - Cal McGowan (cello), Modasaurus jazz quartet

Descriptions for tracks in REACHING OUT

Act 4

1. Personal Credo - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. 

2. Imagine, Part 4 - Jamaal Amir Akbari, spoken word; Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. The first five tunes acknowledge the hard work of personal well-being and growth, while setting a goal of engaging with one's community by reaching out.

3. Reaching Out - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solos by Alex Moxon (guitar) and Jamie Holmes (drums); short solos by everyone.

4. Minding my Time - Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solos by Ed Lister (trumpet) and Petr Cancura (tenor sax).

5. Alone in a Crowd - Despax string quartet. Joined by Modasaurus jazz quartet (free improvisation from 4:35 to the end).

Act 5

6. Imagine, Part 5 - Jamaal Amir Akbari, spoken word; Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, the four horns,  solo by Cal McGowan (cello). These next five tunes explore the connections one has to our loved ones and inspirational people, and the loss we experience when they die. The pieces express sadness and grief, as well as coming to terms with their loss by honouring their lives. 

7. Corean Poultry (Tribute to Chick Corea) - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, the four horns.

8. Blue Lament - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and solos by JP Lapensée (bass), Ed Lister (trumpet) and Cal McGowan (cello).

9. Pause - Despax string quartet. 

10. Elegy - James McGowan (piano), JP Lapensée (bass), Jamie Holmes (drums), solo by Mike Tremblay (tenor sax).

Act 6

11. Imagine, Part 6 - Jamaal Amir Akbari, spoken word;  Despax string quartet and Cal McGowan (cello), Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. These final seven tunes conclude the journey by celebrating the importance of engaging with others in community, despite its challenges, and reflecting upon the process to accept oneself.

12. Time To Rise II- Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet. Solo by Alex Moxon (guitar). 

13. Chaotic Good - Despax string quartet, Cal McGowan (cello), Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns. Solos by Alex Moxon (guitar), James McGowan (piano), JP Lapensée (bass), and Jamie Holmes (drums). 

14. Together - Cal McGowan (cello) and James McGowan (piano).

15. My Story - Despax string quartet, Cal McGowan (cello), the four horns, and solos by James McGowan (piano), JP Lapensée (bass), and Jamie Holmes (drums).

16. Reflection - Despax string quartet, Modasaurus jazz quartet, and the four horns, with solo by Cal McGowan (cello). 

17. Song Without Words - Mike Tremblay (tenor sax), James McGowan (piano), JP Lapensée (bass), Jamie Holmes (drums).  

RIRO Photo Gallery

REACHING IN and REACHING OUT CREDITS

James McGowan: piano/keyboards, producer, compositions and poetry (SOCAN)

Alex Moxon, guitar; Jean-Philippe (JP) Lapensée, bass; Jamie Holmes, drums & percussion. The first four artists make up Modasaurus.

Cendrine Despax & Jean Despax, violin; Maxime Despax & Olivier Philippe-Auguste, viola; Valérie Despax & Cal McGowan, cello;

Ed Lister, trumpet; Mark Ferguson, trombone; Petr Cancura & Mike Tremblay, saxophones

Jamaal Amir Akbari [a.k.a. JustJamaal ThePoet], spoken word artist

Steve Foley: audio recording and pre-mixing; Rob Cosh: mixing and mastering

An Nguyen: painting and CD cover artist

We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts