September 8, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                

Contact: Kerrie Sadler                                                                      

kerrie@ilyaserov.com

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ILYA SEROV EXPANDS STYLE, EMBRACES HOPE THROUGH NEW SINGLE

Award-winning Trumpeter Releases CHILLIN’ in His New Genre-bending Format

“A very cool space with a down-tempo jam that’s out of this world” — Dave Koz

 

(Los Angeles, CA) Innovative trumpeter Ilya Serov announces the release of his first original single, Chillin’which is accompanied by his new music video just out under the same title. Together they mark a significant new direction for the young artist, who is already known for his sterling renditions of popular songs from the Big Band era. While his previous two albums were a compilation of Big Band, swing, and standard jazz tunes, Serov’s imaginative alchemy has enabled him to successfully explore other musical genres, as well.

“This release is very special to me as it departs from my usual style. It’s been a labor of love, discovery and truly listening to my inner voice during this time of reflection as we’ve sheltered in place,” says Serov. “Chillin’ is my own creation and I feel vulnerable in this moment, so I wanted to make it perfect as it touches the world. It’s about leaving today’s worries and Covid-19 behind; about hope and letting the power of music lift our spirits and unleash fearless dancing as we finally step outside.”

The recent musical expansion is rooted in Smooth Jazz, R&B and Neo Soul, then further explored with a catchy sense of youthful freedom. Despite the pandemic he was able to include exceptional artists on the single. Seasoned musicians joining his own trumpet and keyboard talents are guitarist Kay-Ta Matsuno (with whom he collaborated and was musically influenced); keyboardist Greg Manning; bassists Maurice Ellis (audio) and Will Birckhead (video); drummer Chad Wright; and percussionist Ronnie Gutierrez. Both the recording and video reflect the currently required, socially distanced format.

“The process of creating and collaborating during this time has helped me escape today’s reality,” Serov explains. “I hope to give my listeners the same satisfaction of just ‘chilling’ as they watch the video or listen to the single.”

Shot in downtown Los Angeles, the video reflects a modern, diverse, and uncharacteristically quiet city. Though brightly lit, the streets are eerily empty and lack the usual hustle and bustle. However, dancer Peyton Avery brings them to life in the singular moment of joy she exudes through her movements, which take her from the inner confines of her apartment to the sidewalk beyond.

“We are alone, yet in this together. As we quiet our minds, we surrender,” says Serov. “My music is about hope and joy. I believe Chillin’ is the new way of living.”

Saxaphonist and smooth jazz sensation Dave Koz weighed in on Ilya’s new release before debuting it on his August 30, 2020 Dave Koz Lounge radio show on SiriusXM. “While Ilya has been around for quite a while, mostly covering the Great American Songbook, he’s now venturing into a very cool space of chill instrumental music with a down tempo jam … I’ve gotta say, it’s out of this world,” he said. 

Chillin’ was composed by Ilya Serov and Kay-Ta Matsuno, and was produced by Serov. It was mixed by Ken Freeman, mastered by Steve Hall, and recorded by Tom McCauley. Cover photography is by Arina Borodina, with graphic design by Tatiana Gorunov.

Chillin’ is available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and YouTube. Ilya Serov may be found at https://www.ilyaserov.com; on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ilyaserovmusic; and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/ilyaserovmusic/. Listen  -- Stream – Download the single here: https://linktr.ee/ilyaserov

ABOUT THE ARTIST: Multi-talented Ilya Serov is a Los Angeles-based trumpeter, vocalist, band leader, and producer who first discovered the trumpet at age seven in his hometown of Saratov, Russia. He was classically trained at the prestigious St. Petersburg Conservatory, but ultimately followed his passion for jazz by relocating to the U.S. in 2008 at the age of 21. Today, through his live concert performances and recordings, he has already built a solid following among fans and musicians alike.

Serov debuted his first album of standard jazz vocals, September in the Rain, in 2013. One year later, he was named Best New Artist at the Hollywood International Music Awards.  His second album, Back in Time (2018) was an homage to the Big Band era, featuring the artist's smooth prowess on trumpet and unique vocal style. The album is highlighted by Serov's collaboration with Grammy-winning percussionist Poncho Sanchez; legendary pianist Roger Kellaway; and acclaimed sax player Eric Marienthal. 

Smooth Jazz sensation Dave Koz has included Serov as a guest performer on two of his popular Dave Koz and Friends at Sea jazz cruises that toured throughout Europe and Australia. He has also been featured on The Dave Koz Lounge on SiriusXM’s Watercolors, as well as on KJAZZ 88.1FM, expanding his fan base to include smooth jazz afficionados near and far.

Through it all, Serov remains dedicated to preserving jazz as an American treasure while also exploring new dimensions. “I love all forms of this music,” he says. 

For a full bio click here.

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