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Yearly Archives: 2025
Nick Marks – Cinematic Chromatics Vol.III [Marks Brothers]
New York based artist Nick Marks returns with Volume 3 of the Cinematic Chromatics series. Born and raised in Melbourne Australia, Marks grew up in a fertile music scene. Since moving to New York in 2016, Marks has established himself as a sought after producer, composer and musical director, Volume One leans into his deep passion of film scores. The result was an impressive blend of strings and electronics. Volume two pivoted towards jazz fusion and hip hop. Volume three brings it all together. “Alpha Bete” packs a lot of funk along with soothing synths and strings. “Into The Void” is a breezy mid tempo burner featuring wordless phrasings from Arta Jekabsone. The jazz funk fusion genre is a crowded market but Marks has the chops to stand out. The six track release is one satisfying release after another.
https://nickmarks.bandcamp.com/album/cinematic-chromatics-vol-iii
Nyron Higor – Nyron Higor [Far Out Recordings]
Nyron Higor returns with his sophomore release to 2022’s “Fio de Lamina”. The sublime recording is rooted in the foundation of Northeastern Brazilian rhythms. “Louro Cantador” is a subtle bossa nova tune that will transport you to the beaches of Brazil. Higor plays drums, bass and synths on this track among others. “Sao So Palavras” is another mellow tune that features vocals from Higor along with Alici Sol and Bruno Berle. Another vocalist, Johanna, brings warmth to “Estou Pensando Em Voce”. Rubens Adati’s guitar and piano arrangements raise the track to another level. Higor along with many of his contemporaries have composed a marvellous recording that captures the essence of Brazil. In addition Higor is an emerging talent to keep on your musical radar.
Anthony Joseph – Rowing Up River To Get Our Names Back (Vol. 1) [Heavenly Sweetness]
Poet Anthony Joseph has invited a few old friends for his latest release “Rowing Up The River To Get Our Names Back”. Producer David Okumu is on board for this set and sound is notable from the start. “Satellite” has a hypnotic funky groove aided by Okumu’s spacey synths along with vocals from Eska. “Tony”, an ode to the late drummer supreme Tony Allen is a spirited Afrobeat gem. The horn section adds a touch of spice lead by trumpeter Byron Wallen. “A Juba For Janet” continues the journey across the African diaspora in the form of infectious roots reggae dub plate. Joseph pulls us into a day in the life of the Afro Caribbean experience. The listener feels like an invited guest and no doubt having a grand old time. Okumu’s sonic production puts us in the right frame of mind. This release sits firmly alongside Joseph’s previous stellar recordings.
https://anthonyjosephofficial.bandcamp.com/album/rowing-up-river-to-get-our-names-back
Ronald Snijders – Penta [Night Dreamer]
Dutch-Surinamese multi-instrumentalist Ronald Snijders latest release “Penta” is his debut for Night Dreamer records. The label known for it’s direct to disc recordings. Snijders released four albums between 1977-1983. Over four decades he has over fifty releases. Snijders supporting cast are premier musicians in their own right. Drummer Yoran Vroom, bassist Jeroen Vierdag and Mike Del Ferro on keys. Together they create a thumping groove for Snijders melodic flurries to soar. The opening track “Kaseko Sisters” kicks hard with a heavy bass groove and heavenly flute harmonies. “Ode To Wayne Shorter” is a mediative tribute where Snijders is joined by Efraim Trujillo on soprano sax. Snijders is widely recognised in the Netherlands, having received the Boy Edgar prize in 2022. However his recordings have been largely obscure outside the Netherlands. Night Dreamer has reissued his earlier work. It’s worth the effort to give those recordings a proper listen. This recording is certainly worth supporting as well.
Lawne – Attic [Wah Wah 45s]
Joe Nicklin and Joe Martin are the duo known as Lawne. Their debut LP “Attic” is a mashup of Afrobeat Dub and psychedelic rhythms. The title is inspired by their attic that was transformed into a makeshift studio. The opening track “Mamasong” is an uptempo burst of wah wah guitar rhythms, thumping bass and tasty synths.”Beta Pan” starts out with psychedelic dub rhythms before shifting the tempo up a notch. At this point the tune becomes a high energy bass heavy banger. “Ame Tova” is a sublime tune that follows the same formula. There are vocal harmonies sprinkled throughout but this is mainly an instrumental vehicle. Nicklin and Martin have created a vibe here in the form of a melodic soundtrack. A marvelous debut worthy of repeated listens.
Close Counters – Lovers Dance Academy [Northside]
Melbourne natives Finn Rees and Allan McConnell are the duo better known as Close Counters. In a short time they have built a reputation for crafting infectious groove inspired soulful recordings in the shape of house and broken beat. “Lovers Dance Academy” their latest release is filled with high energy compositions. In addition, some of their Melbourne friends are on board to lift these tracks to another level. “Constant Love” is infectious up-tempo boogie funk with fellow Melbourne native Jace XL on vocals. “Waiting All Night” is another sonic banger with warm synths that features Allysha Joy. “Freedom We’re Needing” takes the party to a fever pitch. Led by Shiv on vocals, the high energy tune is laced with warm percussion and gorgeous piano melodies. These guys are rapidly building a catalogue of tunes that are well worth checking out. This new release brings a lot of heat. A clever title with recordings that certainly deliver.
https://closecounters.bandcamp.com/album/lovers-dance-academy
Inkswel & Andre Espeut – Synchronicities [Compost Records]
If there’s a category for hardest working DJ/Producer then Inkswel would certainly be a finalist for the title. “Synchronicities”, his latest project is a collaboration with UK singer songwriter Andre Espeut. Inkswel dishes up a collection of funk n soul gems for Espeut’s soulful vocals to shine. “Play With Fire” is a gritty tune fueled by organ and guitar grooves. “Downtown” is a trip to funky town that features Los Angeles rapper Abstract Rude. “Callin 4 U” is a taste of synth powered broken beat goodness featuring Amsterdam flautist Han Litz. Inkswel’s compositions have no shortage of infectious funk and soul grooves. This release is no exception.
Tomin – Untitled Dirge [International Anthem]
The new album from multi-instrumentalist Tomin Perea-Chamblee and his septet expands the horizons of the big band sound. The ten track release demonstrates his prowess as a composer as all but two tracks are originals. The septet is composed of musicians from Brooklyn to Chicago. “Untitled Dirge” is an emotive tune with layers of harmony. Tomin’s trombone melodies along with Cellists Clerida Eltime and Lester St Louis create orchestral moments that resonate long after the track has finished. The tone feels somber at first but shifts to hope for a new beginning. The punchy bass from Luke Stewart sets the tone on “Movement”. Tomin’s heavenly flute melodies are undeniably soothing. Although recorded live, Tomin’s overdubbing of trombone, cellos, bass clarinet and flute heightens the mood throughout. Tomin’s re-imagination of the big band results in an exploration of moods, rhythms and gorgeous melodies. The Brooklyn based musician is certainly on the rise.
Scrimshire – Music For Autumn Lovers [Albert’s Favourites]
Adam Scrimshire’s latest release focuses on the seasonal transition to Autumn. “Music For Autumn Lovers” captures the emotional shift we all experience with nature. Physically and mentally moving from outdoors to indoors and essentially into hibernation. Scrimshire performs all instruments here with his continued excellance. “Hazel” begins with pensive acoustic guitar rhythms. The melancholy “Willow” is another moody tune heighthen by euphoric strings and hints of drum n bass. These two tracks along with “Blackthorn” and “Hawthorn” were recently written and produced by Scrimshire. The other tracks were part of an earlier EP released in 2022. Scrimshire paints a vivid picture of the beauty of Autumn through the eyes of his reflective compositions. The result is a deeply personal expression of moods that you’ll enjoy in all seasons.
https://scrimshire.bandcamp.com/album/music-for-autumn-lovers-2
Joel Sarakula – Soft Focus [Legere Recordings]
Joel Sarakula’s latest release “Soft Focus” is a collection of light funk and jazzy pop recordings. Born in Sydney Austraila Sarakula has built a following around the UK where he’s now a resident, “I’ll Get By Without You”, produced by Shawn Lee is a laid back blue eyed soul stomper. “Back For Your Love” has a touch of Northern Soul with jazzy synths and funky wah wah guitar rhythms. “Midnight Movie” is a sunny uptempo tune with a touch of samba. “Soft Focus” is a time capsule into late seventies soulful pop recordings. Sarakula’s falsetto will remind you of crooners like Michael McDonald and Boz Scaggs. The recordings will inject you with good vibes while yearning for simpler times.
Richard Spaven – Solo Subject [Fine Line]
Richard Spaven has been the go to drummer for a number of the emerging stars on the UK jazz scene. With his latest project “Solo Subject” he picks up where he left off with his last album “Spirit Beats”. Two of the Uk ‘s premier rappers are on board for this project. “Spaven’s Arc” features Wildchild from the hip-hop group Looppack. Wildchild’s flow and lyrical dexterity complements Spaven’s drum snare rhythms. UK rapper Tendayi drops a fiery verse alongside the gritty groove of “Mind State”. “Find Peace Within”, a rework of the Liquid Biskit classic jumps out of the speaker with infectious percussion and synths. Another instrumental highlight is “Faders”, a ferocius drum n bass banger. Spaven’s fierce yet gentle drumming lays the groundwork for the wave of spirited piano flurries. Another impressive release from the mighty drummer.
Dora Morelenbaum – Pique [Mr Bongo Records]
“Pique”, the solo debut from Dora Morelenbaum is awash with sublime jazz infused Brazilian rhythms. A member of the group Baja Desejo, Morlenbaum’s own project allows her to put her talents on full display. The blissful opener “Nao Vou Te Esquecer” showcases her heavenly voice over warm keys and soft guitar melodies. “Nem te procurar” is a light Disco number with an infectious groove. “VW Blue” is a jazzy number where Morlenbaum’s wordless phrasing aligns seamlessly with the stellar musicianship on board. The soothing ethereal “Petricor” is another highlight among many here. Ana Frango Eletrico serves as co-producer and creates a balance between mellow and funky tunes. Morelenbaum’s voice is understated yet passionate so you’re instantly pulled in. There’s a new generation of talent emerging from Brazil and Morelenbaum is certainly one to watch. This engaging debut is evidence of that.
Nubiyan Twist – Find Your Flame (Deluxe Version) [Strut Records]
“Find Your Flame”, the latest release from Leeds based Nubiyan Twist is a melting pot of flavors certain to satisfy your musical palette. You want toe tapping funky grooves. You got it here. A slice of reggae and afrobeat rhythms. Yes, there’s plenty of that too. Guitarist/producer Tom Excell manages to tie all these components together while receiving contributions from a number of notable musicians. “Lights Out” instantly pops partly due the soulful vocal harmonies but mainly because the unmistakable bassline from the legendary Nile Rogers. Frontwomen Aziza Jaye elevates the recordings with her gorgeous vocals. Jaye equally shines on the tropical “So Mi Stay”. The punchy Afrobeat rhythms of “Carry Me” receive a boost from Afrobeat pioneer Sean Kuti. “Slow Breath” featuring Mali native Mamani Keita allows us a moment to catch our breaths and enjoy the mellow groove. “Free” is another burning track featuring Ego Ella May holding down the chorus. Afro Futurist band Onipa is essentially Nubiyan Twist plus rapper K.O.G (Kweku Sackey). If you need one album to kickstart your next party then this is the one. No doubt you’re gonna have a funky good time.
https://nubiyantwist.bandcamp.com/album/find-your-flame-deluxe-edition
Sam Nobrega – Ponta de Dois Lados [Freestyle Records]
“Ponta de Dois Lados” is the debut from Sam Nobrega. Brazilian born and now living in Lisbon, Nobrega channel the legacy of vocalists such as Joao Denato, Milton Nascimento and Jorge Ben just to name a few. The eight track release a soothing collection of raw Brazilian folk compositions inspired by the songs of his youth. The opening track “Surpreenda-Se” blends soothing vocal harmonies, trombone rhythms and keys. “Sangue Latino” is a festive tune punctuated by myriad of rhythms. Nobrega’s vocals dance along with the guitar and percussion rhythms. You may get the feeling to dance along as well. A delight of a debut that captures the essence of samba, bossa nova and other Brazilian fabrics of the culture. Nobrega is a new voice to keep an eye on.
Ludivine Issambourg – Above The Laws [Heavenly Sweetness]
“Above The Law” is the third solo release from Parisian Flautist LudivineA Issambourg. The eleven track release is an intoxicating brew of jazz funk with a array of musicians bringing these compositions to life. Eric Legnini’s sunny flurries on the Fender Rhodes compliment Issambourg’s flute melodies on “The Bear”. The horn section is equally compelling. Alexandre Herichon’s trombone stands out among the ensemble of saxophonists on board. “Angel Dust”, the Gil Scott Heron hit receives a rework with none other than Brian Jackson. Jackson, of course was part of the duo that composed the original and his vocals add a fresh take on the classic. “Heartbeat” opens with a laid back funky bass groove from Xavier Zolli. Issambourg’s passionate soloing is the icing on the cake. Issambourg’s prowess of her instrument is on full display here. There’s a hint of the Mizell brothers vibe as the worlds of jazz and funk blend seemlessly. Overall it’s a statement from Issambourg that she can compose tasty grooves with the best of them. A deeply satisfying record without a doubt.
https://ludivineissambourg.bandcamp.com/album/above-the-laws