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A performer of extraordinary versatility her live shows are intimate journeys that chronicle her experience as a female artist in the 21st century. Because of her musical prowess, mesmerising vocals, non-compromising lyrics and ability to deftly reinterpret songs on the cello, Ayanna is able to straddle both the classical and urban worlds effortlessly. She is the definition of eclectic soul.
Currently working on her sophomore album Ayanna has recently appeared on Channel 4 (Sing It Loud) and Later…with Jools Holland (BBC1) and is preparing to return to the live arena whilst working on a number of commissions for ensembles and orchestras in UK and Europe.
Nottingham raised singer/songwriter/pianist Natalie Duncan's sublime piano playing and expressive, lyrical voice first came to the attention of those in the know in 2009 at the age of 19 with the release of her debut EP "Natalie Alexis Duncan". However, it was 2011 and her involvement in the BBC programme "Goldie's Band By Royal Appointment", the three-part series that was the brainchild of drum and bass pioneer Goldie, that she came to wider attention. Following her appearances on that show she was signed to Universal’s Decca Records and produced her first album "Devil in Me", which was released in 2012 to considerable acclaim, the Guardian declaring "An incandescent star is born". Towards the end of that same year she appeared on "Later with Jools Holland" which led to her touring as support for Muse. Since then she has, amongst many other things, released an electronic EP, "Black & White", and a single titled "Lies" which is currently highly streamed. After returning from Thailand where Goldie facilitated the recording of her new album, Natalie released her second album "Free" in July 2020 on Goldie’s label, Fallen Tree 1Hundred. She received excellent critical acclaim from publications including Mojo, Blues and Soul plus Echoes and Bandcamp who both made it album of the month.
Lead single 'Sirens' debuted on Trevor Nelson's Rhythm Nation and it was also spot played by Jamie Cullum BBC2 and long time supporter Cerys Matthews on BBC6 music. Keen supporters from Jazz FM made "Free" their record of the week where multiple songs were played and discussed. Natalie launched the album with a live intimate recording from Ronnie Scott's Club London, plus the first live performance of it took place at London's Jazz Café in October 2020. She is currently working on her third album pencilled for release Autumn 2022 as continues to perform live.
Recent quotes:
“Natalie has dug deep to produce a set of genuine, heartfelt and resonating songs. The stripped-back feel and fine ensemble work incredibly well allowing what Quincey Jones used to say “enough space for God to walk through the music” (Blues & Soul)
“...she draws comparisons with Nina Simone and Alicia Keys, but has developed her own soulfully compelling style as well as a voice whose honeyed, silky caresses are to die for” (MOJO)
“Free is a fine album, probably my favourite of the year so far.” (Echoes Magazine, 5* review, Soul Album of the Month)
https://thevinylfactory.com/news/natalie-duncan-new-album-free-vinyl-goldie-label/
https://daily.bandcamp.com/album-of-the-day/natalie-duncan-free-review