The first thing that comes to mind when I listen to this blues-inflected soul jam is pure, visceral emotion. Jalapeno Records songstress Izo FitzRoy delivers a raw and dynamic performance on her latest single "Little Birdie." With a melodic sincerity that conjures images of the great Aretha Franklin, Amy Winehouse, and Yola, Izo Fitzroy injects the feels into every single note, adding an infectious sense excitement to powerful lead vocals, uplifting harmonies, and a flavor of jazz with her own hand on the keys.
After years of directing gospel choirs her recording career took off in earnest after FitzRoy wrote and recorded the bulk of her debut album “Skyline” while living in New Orleans for the better part of a year. With a helping hand on the production side from industry heavyweight Dr Rubberfunk, their creative partnership flourished and quickly grew into a full-length record that channelled her gutsy gospel style through the lens of vintage, groovy funk.
Following the success of her debut album Izo was in demand and toured across Europe tirelessly — all the while writing her next record and lending her talents to others, including features for Kraak & Smaak, Smoove & Turrell, Flevans, and Dr Rubberfunk. In late 2018 disaster struck and she lost the ability to sing. The only option she had to save her career in music was to have surgery on her vocal chords — which silenced this songbird for 3 excruciating months, followed by a long period of vocal rehabilitation.
By summer 2019 she was back with an even greater range, and now Izo FitzRoy has returned to doing what she does best — stunning crowds night after night with her vocal talents, often accompanied by up to 9 gospel backing vocalists. Izo FitzRoy combines an honest, feel-good style of songwriting with all the treasured hallmarks of classic soul: an incredibly expressive lead vocal, solid instrumental performances that flourish in the rich intersection between blues and jazz, and a warm feeling that life begins anew with every moment of inspiration.
