You might be familiar with Wolfgang Valbrun already. Back in 2023, he debuted his solo project with the EP, Where Is the Peace, and before that, he had played for UK sould and jazz band, ephemerals. And through that, he also performed and wrote for French hip-hop and soul legend Guts (after they met at renowned Glastonbury festival, nonetheless). Well, the American-born, Paris-based singer-songwriter is back on track with a new single, Sun Don’t Shine, out today via Jalapeno Records.
Exploring the converging points between jazz, soul, and rock, Valbrun has been crafting a unique, easily recognisable sound over the years. He’s a fully rounded artist, and since taking the step to go solo, he’s kept doing that. New single Sun Don’t Shine is just a testament to that. The song starts with some drums, and quickly we hear Valbrun’s voice singing: “I can see you want more from life, what I got won't lift your ego tonight.” Over the three minutes and a half, we also hear some melodic guitar riffs as well as lively trumpets and brass instruments. All of these elements make this genre-bending song a beautiful blend of soul, rock, and jazz.
This is the third (and last) single before the artist releases his debut album, Flawed by Design, set to release on May 31st this year. According to the label, Wolfgang’s new record is “a powerful and introspective look at human frailty.” Before Sun Don’t Shine, the Paris-based singer had previously released Almighty $$, with a more rock undertone, and Where is the Peace, a protest song against institutional racism and social injustice and a powerful call to take a stand. Oh! And if you’re in London, you can’t miss his upcoming concert in Camden’s Forge on May 30th. See you there!
