In a world of music full of suggestive lyrics, plenty of cleavage and almost too much auto-tune, Brandi Disterfelt's sophomore album brings something classy to the table coupled with a little bit of attitude and raw talent.

Second Side, released last week, is all about a new side to her music, said Disterfelt. Whereas her debut effort saw a more classic jazz turn, Second Side has some pop influence. The reason behind her decision to add more pop was from playing in a lot of jazz societies post-Juno win and finding she loved playing upbeat, danceable jazz for people her own age, she said. The joyous beats on Second Side were also largely influenced by Brazilian pop sensation Milton Nascimento. Another difference with this particular album is that she found herself drawn to lyrics, inspired by Joni Mitchell.

“Jazz with a little bit more of an edge,” said Disterfelt, of the album's theme. “I wanted to create something new.”

The versatility shown on the album is reflected in her love of the acoustic bass — an instrument she fell in love with because of its sound and size, she said. “(You) can play classic with the bow,” she said. “Or hip hop lines.”

“Bass players' biggest role is to keep the groove.”

Originally from the west coast, she's currently in New York, studying with Ron Carter who played in Miles Davis' band — arguably one of jazz's heaviest hitters. She was also recently selected to be Quebec's 2009/2010 Revelation Radio-Canada Musique Ambassador, which she calls “an honour” — praising Quebec audiences for their spirit and boisterousness.

Disterheft is about to hit the road again, heading to Vancouver and prepared to bring her accessible and upbeat jazz to audiences again. But rather than the idea of a dark, moody jazz bar scene, her shows are all about fun.

“Swing, uplifting, making people want to dance,” she explained. “Let's have a great time!”