Multi-Grammy award-winning vocalist Kurt Elling has released Wildflowers, Vol. 2 on digital services. It’s the second release in his impromptu Wildflowers series, recorded on September 20, 2024 with pianist Joey Calderazzo and trumpeter/composer Ingrid Jensen.

It was also announced recently that Wildflowers, Vol. 1 was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Jazz Vocal Album category. 

In late August, Elling released Wildflowers, Vol. 1, which was conceived, recorded, mixed, mastered and released in a week’s time. Following that unexpected release, Vol. 2 continues this journey. Partnering with long-time friend and pianist Joey Calderazzo, known for his work with Michael Brecker, Dave Holland, and Branford Marsalis, Elling cultivated a raw, stripped-down sound.

This latest release marks a shift from his Grammy-nominated SuperBlue project co-led by Charlie Hunter.

Wildflowers, Vol. 2 intentionally highlights “how modern technology can amplify creativity without sacrificing artistic control.”

Elling describes the day of recording Vol. 2:

What a day!! Recorded Volume 2 of Wildflowers—this time with Joey Calderazzo and Ingrid Jensen—C train to Dizzy’s Club to hit with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at the Lincoln Center Orchestra—then a 1 train to Smoke Jazz Club to reconnect with Branford Marsalis and the blazingest band in the world—and even caught the last notes of Artemis’ genius Birdland Jazz Club.

Tracklisting:
1. Lost in the Stars (Music: Kurt Weill / Lyrics: Maxwell Anderson) 2. Stars (Endless Stars) (Music: Fred Hersch / Lyrics:  Norma Winstone)
3. It’s Only a Paper Moon (Music: Harold Arlen /  Lyrics: Yip Harburg and Billy Rose)
4. Current Affairs (Music: Joe Zawinul)
5. August Winds ft. Ingrid Jensen (Music & Lyrics: Sting)