BOLDEN. craft their latest soundscape for the soul: ‘Cold Nights and City Bike Rides’
BOLDEN. is one of the most intriguing acts rising from the underground UK music scene. The duo seamlessly blends jazz, soul, and electronic music into one tight package, delivering melodies that can soothe even the weariest traveller.
Behind BOLDEN. is Reuben Barrett, a self-taught guitarist and multi-instrumentalist. He brings gravitas to the band’s music, with harmony and rhythm as his forte. Then there’s Catherine Rannus, whose expertise with both saxophone and flute brings a delicate and more intimate touch. Together, Catherine and Reuben form an alliance like no other, combining their strengths into something singular. They’re redefining what jazz music is—not just in the studio but also on live stages.
The name BOLDEN. was chosen as a tribute to Charles “Buddy” Bolden, one of jazz’s legendary pioneers who helped lay the foundations of the genre. BOLDEN. is now adding to that legacy, producing music that blends the essence of jazz with electronic flair.
“It felt right to name the project after someone who helped birth jazz. We’re not trying to recreate what jazz was—we’re continuing its story.”
BOLDEN. has just released a new single with a very peculiar name. ‘Cold Nights and City Bike Rides‘ is an intriguing track. Once you press play, you’re welcomed by soothing saxophone and piano. The melodies are warm and inviting. Then Reuben’s vocals enter. It’s not common for this kind of jazzy/electronic track to feature male vocals, and it’s a refreshing change of pace. Overall, the song is perfect for anyone looking to set the mood for a relaxing evening or for those feeling nostalgic for cold nights in the city—a not-so-distant past where things felt a little better.
BOLDEN. is gearing up to release their debut album, the coyly-named Would appear to be jazz., with ‘Cold Nights and City Bike Rides’ released ahead of time one of several featured singles. The album title, pulled from Catherine’s university dissertation on gender inequality in the music industry, sets the tone for a project that’s anything but conventional. With this release, BOLDEN. aims to push boundaries and provoke thought, reimagining what jazz is and who gets to shape its future.