Funk-Jazz in the Fast Lane

Aleks sever lays it down on extravagant.

- Art Thompson

IT ONLY TAKES A FEW SECONDS OF LISTENING to Aleks Sever to recognize the fire and soul that she brings to her music. Sever’s knack for catchy melodies coupled with her impressive guitar chops is a recipe for success in the instrumental arena, and the guitarist’s fearless approach, inventiveness, and spirit of adventure make her latest album, Extravagant, a gem. “I always try to find something new that exites me or is some kind of breakthrough when I write,” says Sever. “For inspiration I listened to a lot of jazz, funk, and hip-hop. Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue and Bitches Brew got played almost every day for a long time.”

Along with Miles, Sever cites John Coltrane, Maceo Parker, Prince, and James Brown as early influences. “I was really captivated by the grooves and the incredible harmonic depth and sense of freedom from their horn players. I started developing kind of a hybrid rhythm style, combining some of the chord shapes and more interesting melodic elements of the jazz approach with the raw groove of funk, which has always been my first love. More recently I started listening to a lot of rap and hiphop, and the phrasing, use of space, and the total intensity is very inspiring. I have a lot of respect for rap artists, and the skill it takes to create a story with a groove.”

Can you give us some insights into your songwriting process?