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Time Grove: Time Grove Roots [Wah Wah 45s]
Time Grove Roots is the brainchild of Pianist Nitai Hershkovits and beatmaker/producer Rejoicer. Joined by an array of equally talented musicians, they’ve created an amalgation of atmospheric soundscapes wrapped in jazz, funk, and other musical styles. Among the highlights are “The Navigator”, where drummer Sol Monk lays down a studdering hypnotic beat for vocalist Shuzin. Guest vocalist Georgia Anne Muldrow sounds right at home on the haunting piano driven “Sattelite Dish”. “The Chase After Tomorrow” is a down-tempo tune filled with frenzied beats by Bemet aka Rejoicer and Hod Moshonov plus vocalist KerenDun. “My Turn” is a dreamy composition from Hershkovits filled with adventurous soloing from dynamic guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel. This is an engaging release that’s filled with pleasant surprises and comes together beautifully. Definitely worth checking out.
Tenderlonious: The Shakedown [22a ]
After a slew of impressive EPs, Ed Cawthorne aka Tenderlonious drops a proper full length album. “The Shakedown” features his current band the 22a Orchestra, a collective of like minded musicians who know how to groove. The album was recorded in one session and the vibe is laid back 70s jazz and soul styles. “Expansion”, a chilled out fender rhodes driven tunes filled with spirited drumming from Yussef Dayes and Reginald Omas on percussion. Cawthorne’s flute soloing dances over the beat and figures prominently throughout this session. “Yussef’s Groove” highlights Dayes prowess in driving the rhythm. “SV Disco” is a nod to Detroit hip-hop group Slum Village. The track is laced with an infectious bass groove courtesy of Fergus Ireland and tasty keys from Hamish Balfour. Tenderlonious had already made a name for himself for dropping infectious beats and heavy grooves. He’s steadily evolving into a formidable jazz musician as well.
Kamasi Washington: Heaven and Earth [Young Turks]
With “Heaven and Earth” Kamasi Washington picks up where “The Epic” left off. Like “The Epic” this is a triple lp filled with orchestral arrangements, a angelic choir and an array of talented musicians from his hometown of Los Angeles. The title reflects Kamasi’s view into the world and it’s potential vs it’s struggle. “Fists of Fury” is transformed from a Bruce Lee soundtrack to an anthem for justice that features Dwight Trible among others on vocals. “Hub Tones” is a blistering cover of a Freddie Hubbard original that features Chris Gray on trumpet. There’s plenty of notable Kamasi compositions as well. “Vi Lua Vi Sol” is a soft melodic tune that features Branden Coleman on keys and the vocoder. Trombonist Ryan Porter applies warm solos as well. “One Of One” is another fiery tune that brings it all together. A climatic arrangement supported by the choir, a strong rhythm section and blistering horns from Washington and Gray. Simply another superb release from a rising star who shows no signs of slowing down
DJ Simon S: Music 4 Alternative Souls [Futuristica]
DJ/Producer Simon S has been at the helm of Futuristica for well over a decade. Few labels have consistently released as much high quality downtempo grooves and jazz infused soulful hip hop during this period. The aptly titled “Music 4 Alternative Souls” is filled with dreamy tracks and thought provoking hip hop that sink into your body and warm your soul. “Looking” is sublime downtempo soul by vocalist J.Mcfysian. Newcomer Georgie Sweet’s tender vocals are a delight on the blissful “Half Human”. Rapper Jack Jones spits poignant verses on the gritty “Slick”. There’s some notable remixes as well. K15 reworks “For You” into a lush house stomper and Mecca 83’s layered beats on “Beautiful” are also a highlight. This superb release is just a snapshot of the notable contributions from the Futuristica family. Press play, lean back and enjoy.
The Lewis Express: The Lewis Express [ATA Records]
Based in Leeds, The Lewis Express pays tribute to the sixties soul jazz trio Young Holt that also featured famed pianist Ramsey Lewis. With recurring members from the ATA label they revisit a time where jazz and RnB lived side by side. “Love Can Turn A Man” is a slow burning piano driven tune featuring pianist George Cooper. “Cancao De Momento” is an upbeat funky Latin tune with a stirring piano intro followed up with spirited percussion from Pete Williams. “Brother Move On” is a classic soul jazz tune that features funky horn arrangements to complement the double bass work of Neil Innes. This is another strong release from the emerging ATA label that will get a warm reception from funk and soul enthusiasts.
Waaju: Waaju [Olindo Records]
Waaju is a quintet specializing in Afro Caribbean funk with a touch of jazz. The London based band have collaborated with a number of acts like Ashley Henry, Jordan Rakei and others. Although it’s only an ep with five tracks they leave a lasting impression with infectious compositions and sparkling performances. The energetic opening track “Ali’s Mall”is filled with pulsating percussion and warm guitar arrangements. It’s also a nod to Malian guitarist Ali Farka Toure, a huge influence on the band. The polyrhythmnic “Kaolack” has sketches of dub and features sparkling cerebral electric guitar playing from Tal Janes. “Waaju” is filled with spirited percussion from Ernesto Marichales. Sam Rapley’s Tenor sax is also a highlight. One can only hope that this is just the appetizer and a full length lp will be forthcoming. It should be a certainty based on the strength of this engaging record.
Otis Sandsjo: Y-OTIS [Wejazz]
This is the debut album from Swedish native and Berlin based Saxophonist Otis Sandsjo. “Y-OTIS” is filled with dazzling compositions built around wobbly polyrhythms and electronics. Bassist Frans Petter Eldh, who also produced the album knows how to shake things up end move in an exploratory direction. On engaging tracks like “Yung” and “BOO!”, Sandsjo’s melodic riffs meld seamlessly with glorious interaction from pianist Elias Stemeseder. “Sun Sun” is another abstract tune that kicks off with heavy beats from drummer Tilo Weber followed by hazy horn riffs and imaginative keys. Each member of this quartet has received their share of praise from the jazz community but they’re unafraid to soar beyond the boundaries. This is a creative gem that you shouldn’t miss.
Lack Of Afro: Jack Of All Trades [LOA Records]
Multi-instrumentalist Adam Gibbons aka Lack Of Afro’s aptly titled “Jack Of All Trades” finds him stretching out across a myriad of genres. As a result we suggest you dust off your party shoes and get into the assortment of grooves he’s delivered. Whatever your taste is there’s plenty here to get your motor running here. “Reach Out (Talk To Me)” is a classic soul floor burner with a tasty guitar groove featuring crooner Elliot Cole. “Only You & Me” is a funky Disco floor filler that features Alyssa & Camila Recchio. Wax & Herbal are two MCs that know how to get the party jumping and they demonstrate on “Back In Business” and “Take It Up A Notch”. Gibbons finds room for a little rock and folk as well with “Over & Out” and “Home” respectively. Gibbon’s sixth lp is much like previous releases, well produced and packed with tasty grooves. Loyal fans are in for a treat and new fans will be equally pleased.
Wvr Bvby: Wvr Bvby [Plug Seven]
Pronounced “War Baby”, Wvr Bvby is an eight piece band from Melbourne. Their debut for Plug Seven records is a mesmerizing collection of high energy compositions built around meditative rhythms and a hypnotic horn section. Lead/Bassist Carl Lindeberg demonstrates strong songwriting skills on all but 2 tracks here and allows freedom for everyone to shine. “Magnetic Ruins” is filled with swaying horns and seductive rhodes playing from Phoebe Elsworth who also wrote the tune. “BSP” kicks off with engaging guitar licks from Joseph Orton followed up with breezy flute melodies from Erica Tucceri. The band’s sublime melodies steadily builds towards a dramatic orchestrated climax. The finale “And Another Thing” is a ten minute number that follows the same formula. Superb songwriting layered with strong musicianship throughout as opposed to long winded jam sessions. Overall an impressive release from yet another talented band from Melbourne that deserves your attention.
Kaidi Tatham: It’s A World Before You [First Word]
One of the pioneers of the West London broken beat scene, Kaidi Tatham continues to push his music forward with a sparkling new lp. “It’s A World Before You” is filled with breathless up-tempo broken beat and nu soul grooves filled with optimistic vibes. The opener “Joyous” is simply that, an uplifting banger laced with jolting keys and bass. “Out Here On My Own” is mid-tempo soul featuring label mates Children Of Zeus. The title track is another up-tempo heater. It’s also the only one where he shares instrumental duties in which he’s joined by kindred spirit and broken beat stalwart Dego. Together their keyboard arrangements along with Tatham’s drum programming shine through. Mixed by producer extraodianaire Eric Lau who knows how master a recording with the best of them. It adds up to a superb recording that will stay on repeat this summer.
Sean Khan: Palmares Fantasy [Far Out Recordings]
Saxophonist Sean Khan heads to Rio De Janeiro to collaborate with the iconic multi-instrumentalist Hermeto Pascoal. You could say that these two are kindred spirits when it comes to improvisation. Their quest for freedom and being in the moment is heard throughout on tracks like “Montreux”. This Pascoal original finds him creating rhythms with the use of a teapot and a pint of water. Khan’s phrasings are subtle but resonate nonetheless. Another Pascoal cover. the breezy jazz funk “Tudo Que Voce Podia Ser” features the sublime vocals of Rio native Sabrina Malheiros. Khan’s own compositions hit the mark as well. The orchestral “Moment Of Collapse” is draped in wind swept strings and the beautiful vocals of Heidi Vogel. “The Blonde” finds them swinging hard and having a good time. Bassist Paulo Russo and Asymuth drummer Jim Mullen keep the rhythm percolating at a fever pitch and laying the groundwork for Khan’s soloing. Inspired by the 17th Century settlement of Palmares in Brazil’s Alagoas region, Khan takes the listener on an astral journey that is pure bliss. Khan and Pascoal together are a real treat that you shouldn’t miss.
Jay Phelps: Free As The Birds [Ropeadope]
Vancouver native Jay Phelps began making a name for himself at home before deciding to move to London at age Seventeen. While establishing himself he proceeded to co-lead the jazz group known as Empirical to critical acclaim. With his sophomore solo release the Trumpeter is ready to expand his sound. “Free As The Birds” kicks off with ethereal intro “Of The World” showcasing his warm tone and soft vocals. “Amphitrite’s Bounty” is another blissful beauty filled with warm keys. Things get a bit more adventurous midway through the disc when Phelps partners up with some of New York’s premiere musicians. Phelps soloing syncs up beautifully with David Binney’s alto and the wordless melodies of Emillia Martensson on “Flash”. Pianist John Escreet’s dazzling flurries raises the track to even greater heights. The sparkling samba tinged title track brims with joy in part due to Nilson Batata’s lively percussion and Martina DeSilva’s soft vocals. The entire disc is a delight and worthy of repeated listens. There’s a lot to like here from Phelps and he’s one to keep an eye on for sure.
The New Mastersounds: Renewable Energy [One Note Records]
Not resting on their laurels, The New Mastersounds continue to push the envelope towards crafting jazz infused funk and soul. They used two sessions to complete this record spending time in New Orleans once again and Denver Colorado. There’s a couple tracks reminiscent of the trademark Mastersound but the emphasis here is more on laid back soulful grooves. Evidence lies in the aptly titled “Pudding Pie and “Living That Jazz Life”. On the former, guitarist Eddie Roberts lays down an easy like Sunday morning type of groove made for finger poppin’. Keyboardist Joe Tatton chips in with some sweet swaying melodies. “Gonna Be Just Me” is an up-tempo burner that features Adryon De Leon from the LA funk band Orgone. The mellow finale “Swimming With My Fishes” glides into the sunset thanks in part to Mike Olmos and Joe Cohen of The West Coast Horns. Sometimes you want to get up and have a funky good time. Other times you want to lean back and enjoy the groove. Whatever you choose just make sure you bring this quartet along with you. They won’t disappoint you.
Space Invadas: Wild World [Invada Records]
Hard to believe it’s been seven years since Steve Spacek and Ashley Anderson aka Katalyst last appeared on the scene. That doesn’t seem to matter for the duo known as Space Invadas are as sharp as ever. With their new lp “Wild World” Katalyst lays the foundation with classic soul inspired samples with an analog sound and beats tailor made for Spacek’s falsetto vocals. That’s apparent right out the gate with “Welcome”. Katalyst laces the track with heavy beats for Spacek and Melbourne vocalist Natalie Slade’s sweet soulful vocals to soar. The title track is a hip-hop soulful banger where rapper Remi and spacek wax poetic about the state of affairs in the world today. “Don’t Ever Look Back” has a percussion filled Latin vibe while “Say Something” is a mellowed out love song. This is a tightly produced lp with twelve strong tracks. Katalyst has distinguished himself as a premier producer while Spacek’s recognizable voice is always a delight. These two make quite a team and it’s great to have them back.
Space Ghost: Endless Light [Tartelet]
Oakland producer Space Ghost’s second lp “Endless Light” is an amalgamation of 80s synth grooves sprinkled over melodic tempos ranging from funk to house. “Color Waves” is mid-tempo cosmic funk with sparse drum programming and synths. On standout tracks “Following A Vision” and “Eyes Closed”, Ghost developes a pattern of building a house tempo before settling back into mellow atmospheric beats and synths. “Strong Heart” is a dreamy down-tempo voyage that features him on the vocoder. Space Ghost cultivates his own sound with this release by pushing the boundaries of soul, ambience and electronica. In a crowded electronic field he’s emerging as a standout.