Since wrapping up Tony! Toni! Toné!’s epic reunion tour, musician Keyon Harrold has been able to turn his attention back to his solo career and his brand-new album Foreverland. Inspired by love, loss, vulnerability and encouragement, the 10-track album features guest turns from Common, Laura Mvula, Chris Dave, Robert Glasper, Jean Baylor, Malaya and PJ Morton.
In the leadup to the album’s release, Harrold gave fans a sample of what they could expect with singles like “Don’t Lie,” “Find Your Peace” and the album’s title track. His vision is complete with Foreverland's release as he peels back the curtain to the inner workings of his heart and mind.
For their turn on “Beautiful Day,” Harrold and Morton take on the role of supporter as they encourage listeners to keep their heads to the sky, even during tough times. “I know life has been painful / so much working against you / today is a beautiful day (beautiful day) because I say,” Morton sings earnestly. The duo penned the song while in Morton’s hometown of New Orleans following a conversation between the two about this thing called life. “It’s such a beautiful thing to create music that comes from the heart and soul,” Harrold said of the collaboration.
While the guest spots are album highlights, it’s Harrold and his trumpet that take center stage on Foreverland. The St. Louis native effortlessly turns the instrument into a communication device, conveying a sense of urgency one minute, as on “Gotta Go (Outer Space)” to the more sensual undertones of “The Intellectual.”
In fact, Keyon admits that sometimes he prefers to let the trumpet do the talking. “What I can offer as a musician who plays an instrument with no words is an honest conveyance of emotion. Some of these notes, I play them because there’s not a better word,” he expressed recently.
With the release of Foreverland, Keyon Harrold proves that he is more than ready to step into the spotlight again. Up next for the dynamic musician is a mini-tour that includes a two-night stand at The Sun Rose in Los Angeles and a three-night run at NYC’s famed Blue Note. Visit Keyon’s website to view all tour dates.
Keyon Harrold Foreverland [Amazon][Apple Music][TIDAL]
