Interview with Camila Meza on KGNU Community Radio

Chilean jazz artist Camila Meza is set to perform a solo show at the Savoy in Denver on May 22nd, coinciding with the release of her first album in six years. Meza delved into the album’s intricate recording process during the pandemic, reflecting on her recent performance at Carnegie Hall celebrating Latin American heritage while discussing her musical evolution from rock to jazz. Balancing her time amongst New York, Chile, and Guatemala, Meza continues to enthrall audiences with her emotive sound and storytelling.

In a recent interview, Meza shared her anticipation for the upcoming Denver show, marking the beginning of a series leading up to her album’s release. The intimate performance will feature Meza solely with her guitar and pedals, presenting a stripped-down set alongside some of her previous songs unperformed in Denver. Describing her excitement for the show, Meza expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the Denver audience through her music.

Reflecting on her performance at Carnegie Hall as part of the Unidos Our Sounds series, Meza recalled the unique experience of a setup where the audience surrounded her from all angles, creating an immersive and communal atmosphere. She highlighted the transformative nature of the performance, emphasizing the shared connection and experience during the event.

Meza’s journey from rock music, inspired by artists like Jimi Hendrix, to the intricate world of jazz was shaped by her family’s musical background and her brother’s introduction to the genre. Finding solace and freedom in jazz’s improvisational nature and complexity, Meza discovered a profound connection to the genre that resonated deeply with her musical sensibilities.

Influenced by the likes of Pat Metheny and Joni Mitchell, Meza shared how their multidimensional approach to music transcending genres inspired her to break free from conventional style boundaries. Drawing inspiration from their willingness to explore diverse musical landscapes, Meza integrated elements from different genres into her sound, crafting a unique and personal musical path.

Meza’s forthcoming album, recorded during the pandemic while she was pregnant, presented a novel and challenging recording process involving remote collaboration and layering tracks over an extended period. The slow and methodical approach allowed for experimentation and depth in the music, culminating in a rich and rewarding creative journey that Meza is eager to share with her audience.

Navigating her roles as a new mother and an artist, Meza discussed the influence of motherhood on the recording process, shaping the emotional depth and meditative quality of the music. Balancing her time between New York, Chile, and Guatemala, Meza embraces a tri-continental lifestyle that informs her diverse and multi-faceted musical identity, reflecting her global experiences and influences.