Luminoso step into 2026 with their vibrant new album '3-2-1', a dynamic fusion of classic jazz sophistication, pop sensibility, R&B smoothness, and Latin colour. Led by pianist and composer Brian Clemens and fronted by Milan-born jazz vocalist Francesca Confortini, the record captures the band’s signature balance of timeless swing foundations and playful, cabaret-infused charm. Both nostalgic and contemporary, '3-2-1' is crafted to be lived with and danced to, reflecting Luminoso’s high-energy live reputation across cities including Dublin, Barcelona, Istanbul, and London, where they’ve headlined prestigious venues such as Wilton’s Music Hall.
The album’s radiant title track '3-2-1 (I’m In Love With You)' sets the tone with a lush piano introduction that blossoms into bright horn arrangements, handclaps, and an irresistibly catchy hook. Elsewhere, tracks like 'The Best I’ve Found' lean into sleek, 90s-tinged pop influences layered with smooth jazz harmonies and groove-driven polish. Blending influences that span Ella Fitzgerald to Pink Martini, Luminoso deliver a record that feels effortlessly stylish yet refreshingly modern, positioning themselves as one of the most exciting jazz-infused acts to watch in 2026.
So with the new album out now, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and what has been inspiring them most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Brian: At first, I assumed it was the piano. But after thinking more carefully, I realized it was actually the guitar. I began playing piano at a very young age, around four, so it was always present in my life and often felt like work. The guitar, on the other hand, did not enter my world until I was twelve. Much of the music my parents played while I was growing up was centered around the guitar, especially rock and pop from the 60s and 70s. Because of that, the guitar always felt almost mythic to me, slightly out of reach, yet deeply familiar.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Fran: As a child, I grew up listening to a lot of old Disney classics from the movies that I loved, which we would sing along to in the car with my family. Those melodies and progressions are stuck in my head since I was a little kid and to this day I still enjoy listening to those beautifully crafted theatrical pieces. I think that’s somehow visible in Luminoso, as there are some melodic moments in there where I can fully express that part of me. Growing up, I fell in love with classic funk and infectious grooves, whilst being still curious and devouring anything I could find, from rock to dance to orchestral music.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Brian: My parents had a huge collection of albums. The entire den was filled with records and CDs spanning from the 1950s onward. However, the first record I truly felt was mine, even though it was bought with my parents’ money, was American Idiot by Green Day, which I believe was around 2004/2005. I played it constantly on my blue portable CD player and even had to argue my case to convince my parents to buy it, since it was full of decidedly non kid friendly lyrics and themes.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Fran: One??? there are at least 10000! But if I have to choose one, I’d say “In My Life” by the Beatles. It’s so simple, and the melody is almost childish, but it gets to the point so quickly and it hits you with honest and warm lyrics. It also works in any rearrangements I’ve ever heard, which means the ingredients at its very core work and are well crafted.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Brian: Honestly, no. And maybe I should, as maybe I would write a lot more music if I did. For me, the conception of a song cannot feel forced. I have sort of been at the mercy of creative bursts or ideas. Sometimes this comes as a simple melodic phrase in a dream, sometimes it comes as a lyrical theme while I’m in the car, sometimes I hear a potential song’s chorus while on a hike. Then, the usual ritual comes about, sitting by the piano, recording multiple melodic or phrase options into voice memos, pulling up a rhyming dictionary, and so on. But for this ritual to take place, the idea already has to be there.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Fran: I am a big fan of Willow, her latest album with John Baptiste is incredible and a great crossover between jazz and alternative rock. Her voice is so interesting and colourful, and the songs are never predictable.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Brian: An impossible choice between Paul McCartney or Billy Joel.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Fran: At the end of a show, if one person alone comes to tell you that when you played that one song, it reminded them of something in their life, or it made them feel something, that’s the most rewarding part. Being able to communicate and share emotions through your work is incredible. When you multiply that one person that came to speak to you, and suddenly it’s a lot of people, then it becomes something very difficult to describe, all you know is that it’s the best feeling in the world. Also, as a singer, when I’m in the middle of a song I am in an untouchable place, I feel safe and able to express myself. These are the best parts of the job!
And what is the most frustrating part?
Brian: Even with an insanely busy schedule, the week never truly feels secure in the way a full time job would. There is a constant undercurrent of insecurity that comes with that, especially when explaining to others what I do. I could be coming off the best gig in the world, or the most lucrative private event. I could be feeling pure joy and complete contentment with my career and the manifestation of my passions. Yet when somebody asks what I do, I never know how to clearly explain what my job actually is.
That, and the mixing of my passion with work. Of course, I am extremely thankful that I am able to work in this industry, but the piano is not always the most pleasurable thing to return to after a long day of work.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Fran: If you’re the best musician in the room, then you’re in the wrong room. Always try to be surrounded by people you can learn from. Brian: Listen to Fran, as she knows the right answers to questions.
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Luminoso's new album '3-2-1' is out now. Listen to lead single '3-2-1 (I’m In Love With You)' in the player below.