Since her arrival in the San Francisco Bay Area Joyce Cooling was always infected by music. But it was Wes Montgomery’s solo on If You Could See Me Now which Joyce turned to the guitar. Her contact to Jay Wagner, a keyboardist on San Francisco’s Brazilian circuit, gave her the impetus and energy to start her solo career. Her first album was Cameo (1990), a Brazilian-oriented music under the strong influence of her partner and musician Jay Wagner.

Her breakthrough was her Heads Up International debut Playing It Cool (1997), presenting a mixture of Latin and smooth jazz. The title song reached #1 on the Gavin Report and was the foundation for her great fan community. Based on a frequent appearance on numerous gigs and festivals her next album Keeping Cool (1999) could extend her popularity and success. Still on the heights of charts followed her albums Third Wish (2001-GRP), This Girl Got To Play (2004) and Revolving Door (2006-Narada Jazz), musically anchored in the smooth jazz genre. Released from any label contract in the absolute weightlessness of independence Joyce found back to her roots on her album Global Cooling (2009).

After a long hiatus of ten years Joyce returns with her new album Living Out Loud (2019) on her own label Rhythm Kitchen. Exquisitely produced by Jay Wagner, this 5-song EP is Cooling, Wagner, and friends at their best! With a nod to where they’ve been, coupled with a full-on embrace of the now, Living Out Loud is an innovative twist on their signature sound. Joyce’s musicianship shines with a unique, soulful energy and the entire album makes a passionate statement. From the uplifting 1st single, “It’s So Amazing,” to the sultry, “Marina’s Dream,” Living Out Loud takes the listener on a colorful, compelling journey. The exciting title track boasts superb playing from Joyce and the band, and the R&B-tinged “Got To Find My Own Way” is downright crazy funky. The EP ends with “Carry On,” a gorgeous vocal ballad with a whole lot of heart. The trip is rich and powerful and one worth taking.

Buy the album on Amazon.com.