ROADS is the debut album of the Léa Castro 5tets. The project came to life in 2010 when Léa Castro initiated her collaboration with pianist and violinist Antoine Delprat. In 2013, double bassist Alexandre Perrot, drummer Ariel Tessier, and saxophonist Rémi Fox joined the ensemble.
Exploring a mix of original compositions and standards, jazz is infused with soul and pop, reflecting the journey of a young generation of jazz musicians who have grown up with diverse musical genres.
Léa Castro's compelling alto voice, rich in swing, intense tenderness, and quiet strength, captivates listeners from the first note. Influenced by jazz icons like Nina Simone, Carmen McRae, or Diane Reeves, as well as soul figures like Otis Redding and Bill Withers, some of her compositions are inspired by colorful imaginings—from Spain to the Orient, tracing Léa Castro's North African heritage.
The innovative lineup of the quintet allows for variations that adapt to each track. Piano, violin, flute, drums, cajón, or a choir are optionally featured. The album carries a shift from infectious energy to the gentleness of chamber music, where tonal colors blend, with the voice and emotions as the guiding thread.
Line-Up:

    Léa Castro - vocals
    Antoine Delprat - piano, violin, backing vocals
    Rémi Fox - saxophones, backing vocals
    Alexandre Perrot - double bass, backing vocals
    Ariel Tessier - drums, cajon, backing vocals

Guests:

    Macha Gharibian - piano, vocals (track 6)
    Axel Rigaud - flute (track 3, 8)
    Boris Lamerand - violin (track 6, 10)
    Julia Robert - viola (track 6, 10)
    Louise Leverd - cello (track 6, 10)

For more information, visit www.leacastro.com