UK jazz star Emma-Jean Thackray: ‘I had the word weirdo thrust upon me. So I’m reclaiming it’

Thackray’s album *Weirdo* captures her journey of resilience and creativity through music, blending fusion jazz, funk, soul, and free jazz. Drawing from her neurodivergent traits, which enhance her multi-instrumentalism but also present unique challenges, the album reflects themes of struggle, loss, and hope, central to its narrative after losing email sending ability. Influenced by artists like Kamasi Washington, *Weirdo* balances bold imagery with tracks like "Thank You for the Day," embodying both starkness and hope. The album marks a significant moment in her career as she tours, continuing to explore these themes through music.