Travis Hall to Release New Album “HeART Museum”

re-crossing project that incorporates soul, 70s funk, jazz harmony, and raw emotion into a compelling collection.

Hall’s background in opera and extensive classical training, including over 200 performances with The Atlanta Opera, has laid the foundation for his new endeavor. He is now unveiling a more personal side – his voice, stories, and artistic vision – enveloped in warm analog tones and heartfelt songwriting.

Describing the album as his “first child,” Hall reflects on the labor-intensive process of creating HeART Museum. Drawing inspiration from his real-life experiences, especially a significant relationship that unfolded during the album’s inception, the songs navigate the emotional journey of new love, uncertainty, recollection, and inherent sorrow with a deep musical foundation.

Originally composed as melodies without formal songwriting instruction, Hall shaped the album while pursuing a graduate degree at Georgia State University. His primary goal was not just the diploma but also access to the institution’s esteemed jazz courses, rehearsal spaces, and a pool of talented musicians.

The album is preceded by three lead singles: “A Day” (released June 6) – a roller-disco groove interwoven with gospel-style background vocals, “Lightning” (released July 19th) – a horn-heavy funk anthem with a bold attitude, and “Fireflies” (released August 30) – a nostalgic 90s-style soul ballad reflecting on first love.

By skillfully balancing improvisation and intuition, incorporating jazz theory, and even Debussy motifs, Hall added structure to his early compositions like “Fireflies” and “A Day.” The result is a sound that fuses classic 70s soul with contemporary textures and emotionally resonant lyrics.

Citing Mariah Carey as his favorite artist, Hall’s album draws more heavily from the sonic influences of Luther Vandross, LaBelle, Aretha Franklin, Donny Hathaway, and the production expertise of Ashford & Simpson. Embracing a traditional approach of live instrumentation, analog warmth, and rich harmonies, he emphasizes the magic of real musicians playing together.

HeART Museum symbolizes not only a remarkable debut album but also Hall’s metamorphosis from a conservatory student to a soul artist, from disciplined vocals to vulnerability. While his voice was honed in classical music, it is life experiences, particularly love, that have shaped this record.

The album captures the essence of budding romance — a period of innocence and brilliance. However, beneath the surface, there lingers a shadow, a sense of doubt and uncertainty – sentiments that are encapsulated in songs like “A Day” and “Fireflies.”

HeART Museum isn’t just music; it’s a profound expression of Hall’s evolution as an artist and an introspective journey into the complexities of human emotions. His transition from the structured world of opera to the depths of soul music is a testament to his versatility and artistry. Embracing his vulnerability, Hall invites listeners on an intimate and emotive musical voyage with HeART Museum.