Gigi EP by Genevieve Marentette

The debut jazz EP "Gigi" (2012) was produced by George Koller and recorded, mixed, and mastered by Bernardo Cisternas at Number 9 Audio in Toronto.

The project was born on a sunny afternoon when Koller invited the brilliant American pianist Mark Kieswetter and vocalist Geneviève Marentette — nicknamed "Gigi" by her dear friend Jaymz Bee — into the studio for an impromptu trio session, inspired by the shows they had been playing together at the time. What they captured that day became a heartfelt six-song collection, introducing Gigi to the recording world.

The EP features reimagined ’80s favorites "True" (Spandau Ballet, arranged by KC Roberts) and "I’m Not in Love" (10CC, arranged by William Carn), the rare German bossa nova "Primrose Samba" (discovered by Aki Abe of Cosmos Records), Marentette’s own lyrics to Mal Waldron’s "Soul Eyes," and a deeply moving version of "For All We Know" that showcases Kieswetter’s sensitivity and depth.

Dedicated to Mark Kieswetter (1960–2025) — not only a gifted pianist and collaborator, but also a generous spirit who helped shape the Canadian jazz community. His touch is present in every note, and "Gigi" preserves a snapshot of three artists playing in the moment — raw, soulful, and deeply human.

Singing professionally under her mother's wing since age 5, Gigi sings with a rawness and soul that one might attribute to a unique hippy parentage and her teenage exposure to the Detroit music scene. She's known primarily for her fearless live approach to song interpretation and her many diverse recordings and collaborations. She's found in Toronto, Detroit, Hong Kong and Berlin.