9-time Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Tierney Sutton has received a “Best Jazz Vocal Album” Grammy nod for every project she has released in the last decade. Known for her impeccable voice and imaginative treatments of The Great American Songbook, Tierney is heralded for her abilities as both a jazz storyteller and her ability to use her voice as an instrument. 

In our conversation, we talk about her newest album, Paris Sessions II, released on May 6. It’s a rich collaboration with her husband, classically-trained guitarist Serge Merlaud, and the two take their musical connection to even deeper levels through songs dedicated to the late songwriter Marilyn Bergman.

Paris Sessions 2 was recorded during lockdown at L. A. 's Tritone Studios. Acoustic bass guitarist Kevin Axt, a member of the Tierney Sutton Band since 2005 and a key component of the first Paris Sessions, came back on board for Paris Sessions 2, providing resounding bass lines and all-important chordal work behind Merlaud's lyrical guitar solos. Legendary flutist Hubert Laws, who recorded remotely from his home studio, blends beautifully with Sutton's crystalline voice on five songs.

Michael Major of “Broadway World” said it best. “Sutton has continued to weave her spell with a combination of pure, pristine vocals, emotional honesty and striking reinventions of familiar tunes. That spell is very much intact on Paris Sessions 2.”

We agree