BLACK VIIOLET "After You" LP (2025)
“BLACK VIIOLET is the new solo project of garage-rock maven Nicole Laurenne (The Darts (US), The Love Me Nots).
Departing from her gritty rock world, Nicole - a classically-trained pianist who has also dabbled professionally in jazz - now ventures into uncharted territory: smoky, breathy vocals cooing over a mesmerizing blend of neo soul, jazz, hip hop beats, spy-movie scores, vintage torch songs, and lounge.
The meticulous production showcases Nicole’s prolific versatility as an artist, songwriter and producer, with attention to every detail in the arrangements and beats, top-tier musicians from two continents contributing real horns, upright bass, and drums, and six different music producers working together across an ocean.
The result? An undeniably cool, seductive, cinematic allure that sparkles with innovative pop vision, musical acumen, and a wide, cross-genre appeal.” - Reprobate Media
Black Viiolet press quotes :“Black Viiolet is guaranteed to leave you shaken and visibly stirred.. a steamy, spicy, spellbinding collection of songs.” - MUSIC LOVE MUSIC (UK)
“KILL ME NOW is a crystalline production that rewards close listening…sounds like it could be the next great spy movie theme…Open your ears to the unique, new view of vintage torch music from Black Viiolet and you may discover your new favorite singer.” - Abe Beeson, “The New Cool,” KNKX radio (Seattle)
“Chances are you’ve seen The Darts love by now but that won’t prepare you for the incredible BLACK VIIOLET…voodoo-jazz, swaying R&B, and artisanal trip-hop..We’re hoping for a venue nearby.” - ILLICO! Magazine (FR)
“I love It! Way way way into it.” - Fred Armisen, comedian
“Edginess and soul packed into one massive and attitude-riddled EP… so much lush character…fun, colorful, vibrant, and packed with an array of instrumentation. Brilliant record!” - The Sounds Won’t Stop (NV)
“Sultry, seducing, candlelight melodies…her sexy, near-whispering voice and sensual film noir appearance fit the mood perfectly well..Laurenne wouldn’t be out of place in David Lynch’s dark movie Blue Velvet… dim the light and let your fantasy do its thing.” - Turn Up The Volume (Belgium)
“I love what Black Viiolet has done. Seriously. I love It. Need to come to Chicago and play the jazz clubs.” - Boris Boden, The Secret Weapon Radio Show, Woody Radio (Chicago)
credits
released February 1, 2025All songs written and arranged by Nicole Laurenne (BMI)
except “My Baby Cares For Me” by Walter Donaldson / Gus Kahn (1930).