Article Contributed by Cameron Shepherd
Published on 2026-02-21
With Diavola, her upcoming Blue Note debut album arriving May 1, Gabrielle Cavassa introduces herself in the best way possible, by letting the music unfold naturally. “Prisoner of Love,” the album’s first offering, moves at its own temperature, drawing the listener in without asking for attention.
Cavassa’s voice is settled and open-toned, carrying the melody with quiet control. She shapes each line with intention, trusting the pauses as much as the notes themselves. The performance feels deeply grounded — music that knows when to lean in and when to step back.
That approach reflects the heart of Diavola, an album that reveals Cavassa’s range as a bandleader, songwriter, and fearless interpreter who treats each gesture with care and reverence. Co-produced by Joshua Redman and Don Was, the project brings together a remarkable group of collaborators—Jeff Parker, Larry Grenadier, Brian Blade, and Paul Cornish—whose playing creates a softly lit frame for Cavassa’s voice.
As Cavassa explains, “I really respect songs and I really want to honor them in the best way.” On “Prisoner of Love,” that respect shows up in the long tones, the careful dynamics, and the confidence to let simplicity speak. “Modernity is important to me,” she adds, “but the truth is I really am coming from a tradition.” The result feels aware of its history without leaning on it.
Across Diavola, Cavassa resists a clean self-portrait. The album lives in the tension between opposites—light and shadow, restraint and desire—allowing both to exist without resolution. It’s music shaped by contrast, where urgency and stillness sit side by side rather than cancel each other out. That balance feels central to Cavassa’s voice as an artist, one that listens closely before responding.
“Prisoner of Love” offers a clear entry point into that world. Spend some time with the track, and if you have the chance, seeing Cavassa live adds another dimension to the music — You can stream HERE.
Diavola is available for pre-order now on Blue Note Store exclusive signed color vinyl, black vinyl, CD, and digital download.
Follow Gabrielle Cavassa
Website • Facebook • Instagram • TikTok
Upcoming Show:
Feb 28 – New Orleans, LA – TICKETS
