Grazina Pukaite is a Lithuanian-born contemporary vocalist based in London. Her singing style and instrumentalist-like approach to phrasing are rooted in the jazz and bebop tradition but also reflect European and Scandinavian jazz idioms, drawing inspiration from Eastern European and Scandinavian music. Her musical influences range from Jon Hendricks (the father of vocalese) to the legendary vocalist Norma Winstone.
The first release, ‘Ode to My Fingers,’ is an original composition that explores the patterns and cycles of longing/belonging and the subconscious in micro and macrocosms in us. The hypnotic soundscapes create a textural foundation for the lush harmonies, quirky lyrics, and mellow and loose melody—featuring talents of Chris Bland – Rhodes, Harry Brunt – tenor sax, Julian Woods – microtonal guitar.
Debut EP ‘Small Sessions I’ was recorded in late October 2023 and recently featured at the Guildhall Jazz Festival as part of the EFG Festival. ‘Small Sessions I’ will be released on January 8th, 2024 worldwide.