Still in his early twenties, he has already racked up impressive credits: pianist James Francies has collaborated with global stars of jazz and hip-hop, from Pat Metheny, Marcus Miller, and Chris Potter, to Lauryn Hill, Common, and Chance the Rapper. He has appeared with The Roots on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon alongside his mentor and friend Questlove.

Like his debut album Flight, its successor Purest Form was released on the legendary jazz label Blue Note. James Francies took his time recording the songs, which resulted in an orchestral quality. In his compositions he expresses a fascination for melody and texture. His themes are personal as well as universal: love, grief, frailty, and fortitude.

James Francies piano/keys, Orlando Le Fleming bass, Damion Reid drums