Collette Savard and the Savants are poised to release their self-titled debut album on Jan. 26, marking the official arrival of a bold new project comprised of highly regarded Toronto music scene veterans. Collette Savard and the Savants is available to order through collettesavard.com, iTunes and CD Baby, and the band celebrates its release with a show at Toronto’s Tranzac Club on Friday, Jan. 26. Full details HERE.

After releasing three independent albums with her former partner, John Zytaruk, singer/songwriter Collette Savard was determined for her next project to expand her scope by connecting with some of Toronto’s most experienced, dynamic and creative musicians. The results are a brilliant folk-jazz-blues hybrid showcasing not only Savard’s own highly affecting performances, but the contributions of the aptly named Savants: backup singer/percussionist Rebecca Campbell, bassist and producer John Switzer, drummer Martin Worthy, guitarist Tim Posgate, and keyboardist Megan Worthy. Campbell and Switzer worked closely with Jane Siberry for many years, while Martin Worthy was a songwriter partner with the late author Paul Quarrington.

Although the album was born out of deep sorrow, stemming from the end of her 13-year marriage and musical partnership, Savard views it as a testament to optimism and empowerment. As the band began jelling, it allowed her to try on some different musical hats, as on the Stax Records-influenced “It Shines,” and the Steely Dan-like “Last Cigarette,” which mingle alongside folk-rock gems like “In Over My Head” and “I’m Counting On You Heart.” Overall, anyone familiar with Savard’s previous three albums will likely be surprised by this new effort, which in the end became precisely her intention.