Since John Smatla re-released the self-debut of his cosmopolitan global fusion collective Ultrablue to the digital world in 2023, the former music teacher and NYC based keyboardist, composer and producer has been unstoppable, releasing singles paying tribute to greats Earl Klugh (“Maria in Blue”) and Herbie Hancock (“Herbie”). Ultrablue’s latest single, the lush, free-flowing and charmingly romantic, “We Were In Love” isn’t an homage to a specific famous person but features cool and subtle contributions from contemporary jazz all-stars Chieli Minucci, Randy Brecker and former Spyro Gyra drummer Joel Rosenblatt. These greats work their magic in support of Smatla, who showcases his beautiful melodic piano joy and elegance like never before. Like the previous two singles, “We Were In Love” will appear on Ultrablue’s upcoming album NEW YORK STORIES.
