In anticipation of his forthcoming full-length solo debut, The Kaua’i Project, critically acclaimed saxophonist James Casey released the album’s first single “New Bloom.”
The song and forthcoming music video share a message of manifesting positivity to overcome obstacles, and poignantly release in March during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. “New Bloom” encapsulates how Casey refused to let a stark colon cancer diagnosis prevent him from making his mark on the world. Wrapped in inspiration from a year of self discovery on a remote Hawaiian island, the song brings to light a mantra of soulful jazz, smooth beats and earnest emotion.
Casey – who regularly performs with Trey Anastasio Band and Phil Lesh & Friends – was diagnosed with Stage III colon cancer at just 38 years old. He is an outspoken advocate for colon cancer awareness, especially among his more vulnerable Black community, which suffers from higher mortality rates and is greater at risk for being diagnosed with late-stage disease at a younger age. Casey appeared on the Today Show earlier this month to share the new music and discuss the importance of knowing your family history and getting tested early if you're at increased risk for colon cancer.
The music video for “New Bloom,” set to release March 21, was created with the support of Olympus Corporation of the Americas. It tells a visual story of hope alongside fellow New York City creatives who are all living through – and beyond – cancer as a community. Directed by Brad Hasse, each person featured in the video is, today, persevering against cancer in their own intimate and personal ways. Watch a teaser of the "New Bloom" music video HERE.
Casey first melded music and advocacy in 2022 when he released a holiday EP, A Little Something For Everyone, which garnered praise among NPR staff picks for the Best Songs of 2022. The album’s limited-edition vinyl pressings raised thousands of dollars for the cancer community via the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and the Nancy Langhorne Foundation.
Today, while undergoing regular chemotherapy treatments, Casey is preparing for the April-May 2023 roll out of his debut LP, The Kaua’i Project. The album was developed over the past two years following a somewhat serendipitous sequence of events. Releasing his own music was never a priority for Casey, even as an accomplished multi-instrumentalist who tours the world with many top acts. That perception changed abruptly following his diagnosis. The shocking news in August 2021 served as an awakening in so many ways. Casey decided to make the most of his time – both for himself and for others. He let go of all limits to his musical career and, for the first time, began writing and recording music under his own name.
For more information and to pre-order The Kaua'i Project, visit jamescaseysax.com.
Upcoming James Casey Performances with Phil Lesh & Friends
March 15 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
March 17 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
March 18 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
March 19 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
April 23 – Skull & Roses Festival – Ventura, CA
