Nottingham-raised, London-based singer-songwriter and pianist Natalie Duncan returns with her long-awaited third studio album 'Black Moon', a bold and expansive release that reaffirms her place among the UK’s most distinctive voices in jazz, soul, and R&B. Created alongside her trio of Alan Mian (bass) and Dave ‘Big D’ Browning (drums), the album showcases a deeper exploration of harmony, blending live instrumentation with futuristic, synth-led textures.
Led by the striking first single ‘Crashing Into The Dark’, the record immediately sets a tone of emotional depth and sonic ambition. Opening with intricate piano work before unfolding into a rich, atmospheric arrangement, the track captures Duncan’s ability to balance technical virtuosity with raw feeling, merging jazz sophistication with contemporary pop sensibilities.
So with the new album out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
It was (and still is) the piano.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I went through many phases of discovering pretty much every genre. The Planets by Gustav Holst was my first introduction to Classical music. Louis Armstrong was my introduction to Jazz. As a teen I loved Metallica, Rage Against the Machine and drama as well as all the 90s hip-hop and RnB.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I remember owning a cassette tape of Sexy Thing by Hot Chocolate when I was maybe 5 years old!
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Blackbird- The Beatles
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not really! I just have to wait until the inspiration strikes me. I try not to force it because that has never worked in the past. Often, listening to good music inspires me to write.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Robert Glasper, Pat Metheney, Michel Petrucciani, Anatole Muster.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
My dream is to play my own massive show, to be totally honest!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The comradery of being in a band. The freedom of being by myself and losing hours to playing the piano and singing.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Having to promote your gigs and music. Having to be proficient in the business side of it.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Always try to practice/write or learn music that is slightly above your current ability or comfort zone.
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Natalie Duncan's new album 'Black Moon' is out now. Listen to it in the player below.