Powerful soul jazz singer Gregory Porter (pictured left), has signed a major new record deal with Universal France, a move capping off a brilliant year which saw him release his acclaimed second album Be Good, while taking the European jazz festival circuit by storm, and sees him make a much anticipated return to the ReVoice! Festival on 12 October (for two shows) – at London’s Pizza Express Jazz Club; the very same venue which first helped him break into the UK, and subsequently, the rest of the world. Porter first appeared on Universal France when he contributed vocals to producer Nicola Conte’s 2011 album Love & Revolution. His signing to this particular label could hint at a move into more soul funk territory, although when Gregory commented on any major label moves earlier this summer, he reassured Jazzwise “the music comes first,” hinting his move to any major label would not affect his trademark authenticity.

Fans keen to get their ears around yet more new material from Gregory in the meantime should also check out the first two funk-fuelled cuts on The Rongetz Foundation’s Brooklyn Butterfly Session album, set for release on 24 September, and includes Porter's emphatic vocals on the single ‘Gogo Soul’, on a strong set of material written and produced by trumpeter Stéphane Ronget. Porter is also featured on three songs on saxophonist David Murray’s forthcoming new album that was recorded in New Orleans, New York and Washington DC, which is due for release early next year. His gift for adding political bite to his soulful appeal gets an added boost on the latter session, as he sings lyrics penned by poet/playwright Ishmael Reed and Abiodun Oyewole of The Last Poets. David Murray also appears at the London Jazz Festival on 18 November, with his Big Band and neo-soul singer Macy Gray, who also features on the album.

– Mike Flynn