Denielle Bassels
IT GOES LIKE THIS- ALBUM RELEASE MEDIA PAGE
A fearless fusion of jazz, folklore, and raw storytelling—epic, unapologetic, and utterly spellbinding.
Denielle's New Single "Poppies in Bloom"
M✓A✓P✓L✓
76bpm (5:16)
Key of A Major
FILE UNDER Indie folk, acoustic singer-songwriter
SOUNDS LIKE/FOR FANS OF: Cat Power, Feist, Adele, Florence Welch, Weyes Blood, Cat Power
Photo by: Jen Squires
© (P) Denielle Bassels SOCAN 2025
DSP LINK: https://ffm.to/poppiesinbloom
UPC: 199538597714
ISRC: QMDA72582368
© (P) Denielle Bassels SOCAN 2025
Music and Lyrics:
Denielle Bassels and Mike Mathieson
CD Graphic Design: Denielle Bassels
We acknowledge the financial support of FACTOR, the Government of Canada, and of Canada’s private radio broadcasters
It Goes Like This - Album Funded in part by:
FACTOR Canada
Ontario Arts Council
Toronto Arts Council
Canada Council of the Arts
DSP LINK: https://ffm.to/poppiesinbloom
Download Assets
ABOUT THE SINGLE and DELUXE ALBUM EDITION
POPPIES IN BLOOM: A Song Born of Resistance
Bassels’ new single is understated, raw, and haunting, a rise-from-the-mud acoustic anthem. Written after a freezing night stranded on Toronto Island in a snowstorm, the song pushes beyond that darkness to stand against the “black boots on boars”: those who trample dreams and try to keep voices small.
Inspired by the “Tall Poppy” idiom, where those who stand out are cut back to size, the track responds with a chant-like refrain: a quiet yet unyielding act of defiance, a vow to bloom against silence and suppression.
Featuring darkly expressive acoustic bass, by Scott Hunter, soulful harmonies by Meg Contini and Colin Edwards Crewe, and vibraphone and additional production from longtime collaborator and platinum awarded Thom Mckay, produced with friend and co-writer Mike Mathieson, it's minimal and cinematic space lets Bassels’ restrained yet gorgeous vocal shine with unwavering power.
A surprising turn for Bassels, and yet fully in line with her reputation for risk-taking, Poppies in Bloom reaffirms her stance as a fearless artist who leans into the unexpected.
Denielle Bassels Unveils Her Third Studio Album "It Goes Like This"
DELUXE EDITON
Toronto, ON – Denielle Bassels, a commanding force in the Canadian music scene, proudly presents her third original studio album, "It Goes Like This," less than a year after her Juno-nominated second studio album, “Little Bit a’ Love,” released in late spring 2023. A testament to her elevated vocal and songwriting prowess, “It Goes Like This” is a lush, cinematic journey that transports listeners to a world reminiscent of their favourite epic vintage novel. Each track weaves a story under dim lights with a never-empty glass of cognac, inviting listeners into a space where every note and lyric tell a tale. Denielle's storytelling is vintage in style yet contemporary in sound, creating a unique blend that pushes the boundaries of jazz and ushers in a new era of jazz songwriting.
With her stellar band accompanying her, she confidently takes centre stage, weaving a tapestry of melodies with warm, velvety tones and electrifying belting. Denielle expands her horizons, delving deeper into production and arrangement, joining forces, at times, with acclaimed songwriters like Gemini winner Lily Frost, versatile producer/violinist/arranger Drew Jurecka, and, for the first time, her sister, Amber Bassels, who contributed to the track "Woman Like Me )” This song, is a powerful anthem about embracing one’s identity against the standards of society.
"Lighthouse," written and arranged by Denielle, is a cinematic opus about facing one's fears, after great failure and hurt. The tempo changes throughout the song signify the constant battling we do in life, conquering new fears and reaching new heights, each battle refining our being and preparing us for the next level up.
Denielle strikes up a second-time collaboration with Grammy-nominated Drew Jurecka, who co-produced many of the songs with Denielle, along with platinum-awarded Thom McKay, and explores new teammates like Vic Florencia. She switches up guitar for piano as the main harmonic instrument, played by two-time Juno nominee Ewen Farncombe, with guitar stylings by Nathan Hiltz, Eric St. Laurent, and George Koller on upright bass.
As the album unfolds, listeners are not only treated to a diverse musical landscape but are also given access to the very heart of Denielle Bassels' artistic expression. Her colourful past becomes a canvas upon which Denielle paints her emotions, thoughts, and reflections, showcasing the transformative power of music. Influences from Ella Fitzgerald and Dinah Washington blend seamlessly with folk, django jazz, folk, and even country, reflecting Denielle's rich and varied musical upbringing.
Special guests include Eric St. Laurent, Bridgette Anderson, and trumpet aficionado Alexis Baro. Most of the songs were recorded live off the floor in the studio, with some overdubs by Alexis, Drew, and Eric St. Laurent. The track "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" was a one-take at the end of a long studio session, adding a swingin' groove that earned it a spot as a bonus track.
So, buckle up for a wild ride through thrilling jazz originals, soft melodies, and a fusion of jazz, swing, and folk. As you immerse yourself in the tracks of "It Goes Like This," each note carries the weight of grit, wisdom, and grace, creating a space where authenticity reigns supreme, differences are celebrated, and music becomes a powerful vessel for personal and universal storytelling.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Denielle Bassels - denielle@deniellebassels.com
TRACK DESCRIPTIONS
"It Goes Like This"Deluxe Version - SPRING 2026
1. Lighthouse (3:33) Dminor, 186bpm (varying), jazz, swing, folk
A cinematic jazz epic, blending Django Jazz, steampunk flair, and operatic drama. The track's eerie preamble leads into a high-energy sea battle of sound, with dramatic tempo shifts and a sweeping string arrangement by Grammy-nominated Drew Jurecka.
2. A Woman Like Me (2:47) Bb Major, 121bpm, jazz, swing, blues
"A Woman Like Me" is a powerful and sassy anthem inspired by her sister Amber Bassels who co-wrote the lyrics. This song is about embracing one's identity with confidence, regardless of size, color, or age, and daring to feel like a million bucks. The lyrics explore the idea of someone wanting to steal what makes you shine and take it for themselves, making it an empowering track for anyone ready to face any situation with strength and poise. This vibrant and bold song serves as a new anthem for women ready to hit the town or tackle any challenge, celebrating self-assuredness and inner radiance.
3. Strange Love (4:17) Eminor, 114bpm, jazz, blues, folk
This rendition transforms the song into a powerful and romantic ballad about forgiveness and moving on. With a lush arrangement, rockabilly vibes from Eric St. Laurent on guitar. Bassels infuses the track with deep emotion, adding a new layer of intensity and heartfelt expression.
4. Songbird (3:47) Bb Major, 80bpm, folk, singer-songwriter, country, jazz
is a haunting track that blends folk, country, and jazz. Denielle's gripping narrative of losing her soulmate and having to hide the pain from world pulls at the heartstrings as it enchants. Featuring soft electric guitar and tender violins Denielle's vocals effortlessly shift from softness to intensity, this track draws listeners in with simplicity in its raw emotion.
5. Emmêlée (3:44) Ab Major, 75bpm, jazz, swing, ballad
A song about the rollercoaster of crises people face when dealing with clinical depression. French lyrics transcribed and recreated by Quebec Poet Laureate of 2022, Paul Ruban. The song is ecclectic, merging folk, swing and indie in a fun, and exhuberant romp. A surprisingly not uncomfortable journey through depression.
6. Chasin' Butterflies (3:24) Emin, 93bpm jazz, blues, swing
Whatever Lola Wants vibes, reminiscent of the haunting melodies of Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Amy Winehouse. This introspective track explores the struggle of breaking free from toxic love patterns, with the Bassels' realising the importance of trusting herself after enduring repeated heartbreak. With sultry vocals and evocative instrumentation.
7. Gunna Be Hell (3:25) F Major, 93bpm, pop, 50's, jazz
The anti wedding proposal song. brings a sassy, humorous twist to a classic 50's vibe, reminiscent of Buddy Holly meets Brittany Howard. Featuring a catchy melody and Andrews Sisters-type harmonies, this track tells the true story of a disastrous proposal from a long-term boyfriend, leading to the realisation that marriage isn't in the cards. The song's playful and spirited tone perfectly captures the mix of frustration and amusement in such a moment.
8. Winter Dream (3:23) A major, 112bpm, bossa nova, jazz
written during a winter retreat in Northern Ontario. Inspired by the breathtaking sight of a three-foot blanket of snow sparkling in the morning sun, this song transforms the snowy landscape into a billowy, fresh sea, inviting listeners on a dreamy escape. The serene and captivating melody blends the smooth rhythms of bossa nova with influences from Laufey, Liane La Havas, and Astrud Gilberto
9. Stone Love (3:16) E minor, 115bpm jazz, smooth jazz, cinematic
Reminiscent of the snake in the jungle book with hypnotic vibes about the magic of pure love everlasting. Inspired by a conversation with a friend about what it means to find true love. It’s like it was always there, like a spell was cast eons ago and it just grows and grows until it’s as strong as mountain, immovable.
10. I Can't Give You Anything But Love (3:57) F Major, 92bpm, jazz, American Songbook, swing
A super swinging version of the American Songbook track, recorded in a single take at the end of a 7 hour recording session. This track hits all the notes and grooves.
DELUXE VERSION - FULL VERSION ON VINYL ONLY - SPRING 2026
11. Poppies in Bloom (5:16), A Major, 78bpm, Indie- folk, Singer-songwriter, acousitc, soul, blues
a hypnotic, raw indie-pop chant with layered harmonies — a rise-from-the-mud anthem about refusing to be cut down. Written after getting stranded in a Toronto snowstorm, the song channels grit, and resilience into something defiant and beautiful. For fans of Feist, Florence Welch, and Weyes Blood, it belongs on Indie Pop & Chill, Women of Indie, and moody headphone playlists.
12. We Are The Rage (3:13), A minor, 140, Jazz, punk, ska
a genre-bending protest piece that refuses to whisper. Denielle Bassels and her co-writer Taylor Abrahamse (a transgender artist) turned personal wounds into a blistering musical manifesto, stitching together decades — centuries — of shame, surveillance, and small-minded suggestions that have policed the bodies, identities, and appearances of women and gender-diverse people.
ABOUT DENIELLE BASSELS
DENIELLE BASSELS – IT GOES LIKE THIS (DELUXE VERSION)
Toronto-born vocalist and songwriter Denielle Bassels has always walked her own path, weaving jazz, folk, blues, and indie into bold, theatrical storytelling. Her career began unexpectedly in Lausanne, Switzerland, where she arrived as an au pair and left two years later as a professional jazz singer. Returning to Canada, she quickly carved her space in the scene, blending captivating vocals with an imaginative songwriting voice.
Her debut album What About Wool Wishbags (2017) was named a Top 5 Albums of the Year by Jazz FM91. Her follow-up, Little Bit a’ Love (2023), earned a 2024 JUNO nomination for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year and cemented her reputation as one of Canada’s most compelling singer-songwriters.
Now Bassels expands her vision with It Goes Like This (Deluxe Version) — coming Spring 2026 on vinyl and funded by FACTOR. The release retains the whimsical edge of the original album while pulling listeners into darker, defiant landscapes.
New Tracks on the Deluxe Edition:
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“Poppies in Bloom” (Oct. 3, 2025), raw, stripped-back, and haunting. Written after a freezing night stranded in a Toronto snowstorm, it rises as a vow to bloom against stigma and suppression. Anchored by Scott Hunter’s darkly expressive acoustic bass and lifted by layered vocal harmonies, it’s a quietly unbreakable act of defiance.
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“We Are the Rage” (2026) — a jazz-punk-ska firebrand, roaring with unapologetic energy. Furious yet celebratory, it captures Bassels’ instinct for risk and reinvention.
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Together, these songs push the album into new territory: stripped-back yet cinematic, intimate yet explosive.
Bassels’ momentum is also fueled by her upcoming Chalmers Fellowship (Ontario Arts Council). Beginning October 2025, she will spend three months in France studying the French influence on vocal jazz, opera, and improvisation — research that will inspire her first bilingual French-English album.
“There is something about the imaginative way in which Denielle thinks, crafts and creates music that is undeniably her own.”
— Dani Elwell, JAZZFM91