Music Rooted in Sicily, Shaped by New York
Original music, creative reinterpretations and live performances from NYC and beyond
Jazz Vocalist, Songwriter, & Performer
For over twenty years I have performed throughout Europe, the United States, and Canada, sharing my original music and reimagining songs from a variety of traditions and genres. From intimate jazz clubs to concert halls and festivals, music has always been my first language.
Actual languages fascinate me too for very language has its own music. So over the years I've delighted myself playing with the sounds of Italian, English, Spanish, Punjabi, Portuguese, French, Sicilian and Neapolitan.
About My Music
My music is rooted in jazz, storytelling, and the meeting of cultures. I draw inspiration from folk traditions, contemporary songwriting, improvisation, and the countless voices that shape the city I call home.
I was told my music is difficult to put in a box and I wear this observation like a badge of honor.
In fact I find it also describes me as a person. Through contamination I look for creative ways to express my emotions and to communicate them to my audience like an embrace.
Watch & Listen
Sicilian & Italian Music
Traditional songs, original compositions and contemporary interpretations
inspired by my homeland and Italian culture at large
Jazz & Beyond
Jazz standards, unexpected arrangements and genre-crossing performances
rooted in improvisation and storytelling
Original Songs
Original compositions exploring identity, language, memory and belonging
Discography
Double Mirror (2017)
My debut album, featuring original songs and inventive reinterpretations performed by an intimate yet uncommon double trio: voice, upright bass, electric bass, and two drum sets. The two ensembles weave in and out throughout the album, creating ever-changing sonic landscapes. A journey through jazz, storytelling, and musical cross-pollination.
Shakin It Up! (2022)
Released under the name Pat Battstone and created entirely through extemporary composition in the studio, Shakin' It Up! is an adventurous exploration of free jazz and collective creativity. Spontaneous, energetic, and unpredictable, the album documents the process of composing music in real time through improvisation, interplay, and shared artistic instinct.
Selected Singles
Press & Testimonials
Hear it straight from music critics and colleagues...
“Laura Campisi is something else, an unusual jazz vocalist/songwriter from Palermo, Sicily, by way of New York City, with avant-garde leanings.” ~ Allen Morrison (Downbeat Magazine)
“Pushing the creative envelope is a sure way to both stir interest in a project and promote progression within an art form. Vocalist and jazz raconteur Laura Campisi wastes exactly zero time doing both.” ~ C. Michael Bailey (All About Jazz)
Campisi has a vocal style all her own and it’s quite captivating. Originally from Palermo, Sicily, now based in New York City, she has an approach that’s not mired in tradition. This enables her to create completely fresh-sounding, yet oh-so-right interpretations of such standards as “I Love You, Porgy” and “Love For Sale.” ~ Paul Freeman (Pop Culture Classics)
"Laura sings with a depth of passion, and maturity that bring the music alive.” ~ Vincent Herring (sax)
"Laura Campisi brings a fresh, playful, and modern approach to the jazz canon. It was a pleasure to add my voice to this recording." ~ Zach Brock (violin)
Booking
Whether performing original music, jazz standards, Sicilian repertoire, or cross-cultural projects, performances can be tailored to the venue, audience, and occasion.
Available For
-
Concerts & Festivals
-
Jazz Clubs & Listening Rooms
-
Cultural & Educational Programs
-
Private & Special Events
Let's make some music happen.
