Freedom in every Note
One might almost say that Jowee BasH! Omicil comes from another planet—or at least from a world where genres have no boundaries; but springboards into freedom. The Canadian-Haitian musician, composer, and life philosopher is a true musical polymath, whose virtuosity and imagination extend across saxophones, clarinets, flutes, pocket trumpet, Rhodes, piano, voice and more. Every note is an expression of his boundless creativity; every instrument, an extension of his free spirit.

A Manifesto of Authenticity
sMiLes, Jowee’s 11th.album, is a manifesto of uncompromising authenticity. It celebrates personal expression, the beauty of imperfection, and the courage to take risks. What might first appear as a rebellious tapestry reveals itself as a clear declaration of limitless freedom and happiness — the red thread running through all of his work. Jowee is a liberator of sounds, minds, and hearts. Being true to oneself and trusting in one’s instincts are the ingredients that allow us to embrace ourselves and others. From this, Freedom and Peace emerge.

The album opens with a homage to Abbey Lincoln’s “Throw it Away”, a call to let go, for the truth to be told. From there, Jowee unfolds a universe across eleven tracks plus a bonus piece, taking listeners on a musical journey through the imaginary worlds: Cabo Verde, 52nd Street NY, the voodoo drums of Haiti, the cosmic echoes of an open mic session and many more. Each note embodies his philosophy of “Trust The Note”, from the very first sound to the final track, “SHouLd I sMiLe?”, a duet with award-winning vocalist Dominique Fils-Aimé, a pure jewel. Jowee pays tribute to Roy Hargrove, nods to Wayne Shorter, bows to Miles Davis and yet remains unmistakably himself: never imitating, always innovating.

“Miles taught us to be fearless, to embrace imperfection, and to trust the moment,” says Jowee. “sMiLes continues that Conversation - a celebration of Freedom in it’s Truest ArT Form.”

Breaking Rules, Opening Spaces
Some artists don’t just change music - they change the way we hear it. They break rules, invent new languages and open new spaces. Jowee BasH! Omicil carries that spark within him. sMiLes is not a conventional tribute to the great pioneers: no imitation, no backward glance. It is what happens when freedom takes the command and the music asks: “What’s next?” (press release)

Jowee Omicil is a sonic force of nature — a fearless improviser, multi-instrumentalist, and visionary who transforms every stage into an electrifying experience of rhythm, spirit, and connection. The son of a pastor with Haitian roots, Jowee brings a raw, spiritual intensity to his music — you know what to expect. He doesn’t just play; he takes you to the field of justice, where Afro-Haitian grooves, jazz, and contemporary sounds collide in his so called BasH!. A musical genius and a mind-blowing entertainer, Jowee is simply unavoidable — infusing every moment with love and drawing his audience in irresistibly, creating an experience they can’t help but crave again and again.

Jowee Omicil is a musical polyglot, composer, and sonic storyteller, weaving narratives of heritage, spirituality, and cultural fusion through his multi-instrumental prowess. He fuses Afro-Haitian sounds, with contemporary to funk and free jazz, spiritual eclecticism, and beyond. Unpredictable and freedom-loving, each note resonates with an authentic expression of his artistry. With saxophones, flutes, cornet, clarinet, and even vocals at his command, Jowee's performances are soulful and evocative; his compositions are more than melodies—they are reflections of his cultural heritage and personal experiences, infused with a sense of purpose and meaning.But what truly sets Jowee apart is his unpredictability; he views his performances not as mere concerts but as transformative experiences. Each show is a communion—an invitation for audiences to immerse themselves in the BasH! vibe, a feeling of love and unity that surpasses the ordinary. With an uncanny ability to surprise and captivate, Jowee ensures that no two performances are alike. By journey's end, the BasH! vibe permeates the crowd, leaving them not just entertained but healed and profoundly understood. Jowee's essence is rare and unmissable—a singular experience that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

Born in Montreal to Haitian parents, his journey into music began in the embrace of his father's church, where the saxophone became his conduit for spiritual expression. Imbued with the rhythms of his Caribbean roots, Jowee's musical journey took him from the pews of his father's church to the halls of Berklee College of Music in Boston and the vibrant streets of New York City. Along the way, he encountered musical luminaries like Ornette Coleman and Roy Hargrove, each shaping his unique sound that transcends borders and genres. As well througout his career with Branford Marsalis, Richard Bona, Kenny Garrett, Marcus Miller, and Wyclef Jean. Notably, he served as the master of ceremony at Quincy Jones' 85th birthday tribute concert and appeared in Damien Chazelle's Netflix show, 'The Eddy.' Amidst the pandemic, he released his solo album 'LeKture,' collaborated with Randy Kerber on 'Y Pati,' formed the 'Big In Jazz Collective,' and recorded 'M.O.M' with the Moutin brothers.

As an educator, Jowee imparts the importance of dedication and self-expression to his students, urging them to forge their own musical paths. Yet, Jowee's artistry extends beyond creation; he seeks to uplift and inspire.

From the intimate confines of recording studios to the grand stages of international festivals, Jowee's music transcends boundaries, connecting listeners across cultures and continents. Music, for him, is liberation—a fusion of jazz, deconstructed by masters like Ornette Coleman, with echoes of freedom suites by Sonny Rollins and Max Roach. It's prayer and protest, solace and rebellion—a melody that knows no bounds.