Prepare to be swept away by the soulful and captivating voice of Maija, a rising star who’s creating waves with her unique approach to jazz and contemporary music. Hailing from London and now based in the Washington, DC area, Maija has been singing and recording since the age of nine, and her new album Broken Kiss is the culmination of years of musical evolution. Among the standout tracks is her beautifully reimagined rendition of the Brazilian classic “Beijo Partido” (Broken Kiss), a song originally written by the legendary Toninho Horta.
A Masterful Rendition of a Brazilian Classic
While “Beijo Partido” has long been adored by Brazilian music lovers for its intricate melodies and evocative lyrics, Maija adds a unique depth and presence that breathes new life into the piece. Accompanied by a stellar group of musicians—including David Kane on piano, Drew Gress on bass, Mike Smith on drums, and Glen Cashman on saxophone—Maija’s version of “Beijo Partido” stands as an impeccable fusion of Brazilian rhythm and jazz sensibilities.
Her take on the track is haunting and mesmerizing, with every note showcasing her incredible vocal range and emotive delivery. Maija’s voice effortlessly glides through the complex chords and rhythms, revealing an artist who not only pays homage to the original but reinterprets it through her own musical lens.
Broken Kiss: A Personal and Musical Journey
Maija’s new album Broken Kiss is a collection of songs that span several years of her creative journey, featuring a mix of original compositions and heartfelt covers. The album’s title track, “Broken Kiss,” serves as a perfect example of Maija’s ability to blend vulnerability with musical sophistication. The song, like much of the album, explores the complexities of love, longing, and heartbreak, with Maija’s stunning vocals leading the way.
Unlike many albums, Broken Kiss features only one song that isn’t sung in English: “Abrázame”, a beautiful and heartfelt Spanish track. Maija’s fearless approach to music shines through, as she seamlessly switches languages, making it clear that her artistry knows no boundaries.
A Collaboration with Top-Tier Musicians
The musicians featured on Broken Kiss are some of the finest in the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia) and New York area. The collaboration on this project is nothing short of spectacular. Maija herself wrote the melodies and lyrics for two standout tracks—“Let’s Keep This a Secret” and “Lonely Old Man in the Moon”—with Wayne Wilentz contributing the harmonic arrangement. The synergy between Maija and her talented bandmates results in an album that is at once intimate and expansive, with each track telling a story that resonates deeply.
The album was recorded at Bias Studio in Springfield, VA, and Gizmo Recording Company in Silver Spring, MD, with the final product mastered by Greg Lukens. These high-quality production values give Broken Kiss its polished yet deeply personal sound, making it clear that Maija has put her heart and soul into every note.
The Magic of Broken Kiss and the Future Ahead
With Broken Kiss, Maija offers listeners a deep dive into her musical world—one filled with passion, authenticity, and impeccable artistry. From her stunning rendition of “Beijo Partido” to her own original compositions, this album is a testament to Maija’s evolution as an artist and songwriter. It’s clear that she’s not just creating music; she’s telling stories that transcend language and genre, speaking directly to the hearts of those who listen.
Maija’s ability to blend genres, emotions, and influences—whether it’s the delicate balance of jazz and Brazilian music or her seamless incorporation of English and Spanish lyrics—proves that she’s an artist who isn’t afraid to push boundaries. Her voice and music resonate with anyone who has experienced love, loss, and the beauty of music as a form of self-expression.
If you haven’t yet, now is the perfect time to experience Broken Kiss. Allow yourself to be enveloped by Maija’s world—one where every kiss is broken, every note is perfect, and every lyric is an invitation to feel something deeply.
Stream Maija’s Broken Kiss on:
Follow Maija on Instagram: @MaijaMusic
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