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Fabiano Nascimento – Vila [Far Out Recordings]
“Vila” is the latest release from Brazilian guitarist Fabiano Nascimento and Trombonist Vittor Santos. “Vila” instantly transports you to the countryside of Brazil. It’s the quiet and secluded neighborhoods where Nascimento grew up that inspired this recording. Santos leads a sixteen-piece Orchestra while Nascimento’s gentle guitar compliments them with aplomb. “Spring Theme” is a tender tune filled with Nascimento’s subtle yet poignant guitar melodies. The blissful strings of the Orchestra emerge like a cool breeze on a warm summer day. Santos’s warm trombone flows alongside the harmonic strings and guitar on “Tema Em Harmonicos”. Nascimento has played with everyone from Arthur Verocai to Carlos Nino. Santos has also played with premier musicians such as Marcos Valle and Elza Soares. This recording is a bit nostalgic and that’s part of what makes it so special. The other part is two master musicians at the top of their game. Stellar work indeed.
Crackazat – Sun [Freerange Records]
Ben Jacobs, aka Crackazat has firmly established himself as one of the premier DJ/producers delivering soulful house compositions. “Sun” is the follow up to the critically acclaimed 2021 release “Evergreen”. A marvellous collection of tunes filled with bright horn lines, joyful synths and infectious grooves. The opening track “Promised Right” sets the tone for the album. A thumping bass groove layered with vibrant horns and synths. “Crouching Tiger” is another banger aided by Lyric Jones vocals cutting through the groove. Oliver St Louis adds his warm vocals to the mid-tempo burner “Nothing But Love”. With a combination of electronics and live instrumentation, Jacobs joyful arrangements inspire instant movement. You’ll enjoy this record either during your next house party or a party within your earbuds.
Mark De Clive Lowe, Andrea Lombardini and Tommasso Cappellato – Dreamweavers II [Mother Tongue]
Dreamweavers is the trio of Mark De Clive Lowe, Andrea Lombardini and Tommasso Cappellato. Their second release builds on electro acoustic compositions with a touch of jazz funk. “Kaze No Michi” is a celestial journey filled with MDCL’s vibrant melodies. Cappellato’s drumming and groove-driven compositions pack a delightful punch. “Lucid Dreams” is an atmospheric jazz funk gem. Lombardini’s riveting bass groove is the driving force, along with Cappellato’s infectious cymbal drumming .MDCL’s dense keyboard wizardry lifts the track to the outer limits. “The Bass That Don’t Stop” is a MDCL dance floor original imagined with live instrumentation. The trio flex their chops over a tune that inspires everyone to get up and dance. MDCL’s euphoric melodies aligned with Lombardini’s thumping groove is intoxicating. This trio is onto something special here. Each member is a leader in their own right. Together they’re making engaging music that deserves repeated listens.
Leo Middea – Noticias de Puglia [Agogo Records]
“Noticias de Puglia” is the sixth album from Guitarist Leo Middea. The album serves as a postcard to showcase Brazilian music worldwide. The album is a blissful listen ranging from mellow tunes to energetic rhythms. “Bloco pra Tristeza” opens with a splash of warm trombone melodies and simmering percussion. Middea creates a soothing palette for a divine chorus section. “Passarela” showcases his soothing vocals layered over gentle rhodes and horns. Middea has lived in Europe for the past nine years. You can take the man out of Brazil but you can’t remove Brazil from the man. Twelve engaging tracks is evidence of that.
https://leomiddea-agogo.bandcamp.com/album/not-cias-de-puglia
Modha – At Your Pace [Sonar Kollektiv]
Dhanya Langer and Max Scholl are the duo known as Modha. The Berlin based duo share a bond for live instrumentation and emotive compositions. “At Your Pace” captures that spirit by fusing Jazz and hip-hop with soulful melodies. The opening tune “Move At Your Own Pace” speaks to that formula. A lush recording highlighted by heavenly horns from Konstantin Doben. On “Good News”, Allysha Joy’s warm soulful vocals aligned with a heartwarming melody are a match made in heaven. “River” is an ethereal tune that kicks off a percolating bass. Berlin based Keyboardist Abase and Fanni Zahar’s flute combine to create sublime melodies. Fabiano Lima’s percussion is intoxicating. The finale “Find Me” is a slow burning gem that features the songstress Okcandice. Don’t sleep on this record. The eight track recording is a bundle of blissful goodness you shouldn’t miss. Another winner from Sonar Kollektiv.
Eric Hilton – A Sky So Close [Monserrat House]
“A Sky So Close” is the new album from Producer Eric Hilton. Hilton is best known from his days with Thievery Corporation. He co-founded the group in the nineties and they made an impact with down-tempo trip-hop compositions. Those down-tempo grooves can be heard throughout this new release. “The Dharma Lovers” is filled with ambient, dub and blissful rhythms. Add the lush wordless phrasings from vocalist Natalia Clavier to take the track to another level. Clavier, who also was the featured vocalist with Thievery Corporation, shines on the sublime “Lalita”. “Behind My Eyes” has an edgy groove yet still captures the blissful vibes that run throughout this set. The ideal recording to have by your side when you want to chill, either by yourself or with someone else.
Atlantis Jazz Ensemble – Mystic Suite [Marlow Records]
“Mystic Suite” is the third album of a trilogy from Atlantis Jazz Ensemble. The Ontario based band channels the spirits of spiritual jazz labels such as Strata East and Impulse. The first two albums “Celestial Suite” and “Oceanic Suite” are meditative offerings while “Mystic” brings a little more fire to the party. “Damocles” is a burner that features Pierre Chretien’s hypnotic electric piano laying the groundwork. Tenor saxophonist Petr Cancura joins Trumpeter Ed Lister and Alto saxophonist Zakari Frantz. Together they trade solos and create mystical melodies along the way. “As The River Flows” is another highlight. The horn section dazzles again but saves room for Chretien’s deft touch. The rhythm section deserves props as well. Guest percussionist Marielle Rivard and drummer Mike Essoudry create a flame that turns into a fire on “Asphodel Meadows”. Simply a marvelous recording that shouldn’t be missed. While you’re at it, grab the other two also if you haven’t already.
https://atlantisjazzensemble.bandcamp.com/album/mystic-suite
Turbojazz – Memorabilia [Last Forever Records]
“Memorabilia”, the sophomore release from Italian producer Turbojazz picks up where his impressive debut “Whateverism” left off. On his debut, Turbojazz demonstrated a flair for creating head nodding, foot stomping grooves in all matters of styles. With this release, he pays tribute to the legacy of dance, Disco and house. The results are infectious dance tracks that sink into your body, thereby inspiring you to get on up to get down. The opening track “The Joy” is filled with sunny chords and the soulful vocals of Berlin based Rona Ray. “Body & Soul” is a slice of early nineties Chicago House. Who better to represent that sound than the iconic House legend Robert Owens on vocals. “Summer Madnezz” dazzles with jazzy horns and trance inspired house rhythms. A delicious release best enjoyed in its entirety. Turbojazz has rapidly become an in demand producer and this release is evidence of that.
https://lastforeverrecords.bandcamp.com/album/memorabilia-album
WAAN – We Want Waan [Sonar Kollektiv]
Hailing from the Netherlands, Saxophonist Bart Wirtz and keyboardist Emiel van Rijthoven are one half of the band known as WAAN. Their sophomore album “We Want Waan” is an electro melting pot of alternative rock and jazz.. “Mirrors” is a powder keg of energy. Wirtz’s melodic sax flurries and synths dance on top of the heart pounding back beat rhythms. The track was recorded live at De Twee Spieghels, a prominent venue in the Netherlands. “Moto No Oto” is a burning meditative gem where Wirtz’s soothing sax blends seamlessly with the lush strings from Rene van Munster and Beste Sevindik. Philadelphia rappers Ivy Sole drop poignant verses to the brooding beat of “Been Blue”. The track is a haunting collage of jazz infused hip-hop. Produced by WAAN along with Oscar de Jong (Kraak & Smaak). The result is an enjoyable and stimulating album. This band has built bridges to multiple genres and we’re reaping the benefits.
Moonchild – Waves [Tru Thoughts Recordings]
“Waves”, the latest album from Moonchild expands the boundaries of their dominance of laidback sunny RnB grooves. With Amber Navran’s feathery vocals, they have injected elements of hip-hop and jazz into their new release. This is also a personal project that deals with the ups and downs of their everyday lives post pandemic. While the compositions may lack their usual collection of love songs, they’ll brighten your mood nonetheless. In addition, the array of special guests on board take these compositions to another level. “Up From Here” features Jazz-funk arrangements from pianist Robert Glasper. The languid vocals of Gretchen Parlato aligned with Navran feels like destiny on “Counting”. The warm whispery tenor of saxophonist Dayna Stephens is an added highlight. The acclaimed songstress Lalah Hathaway appears on two tracks. On “Afterglow” she’s joined by Jazz vocalist Christie Dashiell. The three contrasting voices unite to create heavenly blissness. Other contributors include drummer Chris Dave and RnB singer PJ Morton. This group continues to ascend. All of their albums have been a delight and this one is no exception.
Momoko Gill – Momoko [Strut Records]
Momoko Gill made quite a splash in 2025. She appeared alongside electronic producer Matthew Halsall on the superb album “Clay”. Prior to that she made a name for herself within the underground UK Jazz scene. She would go on to perform with acclaimed Saxophonist Alabaster Deplume. Gill builds on her momentum with an astounding self-titled debut. A self taught drummer, producer and songwriter, Gill’s debut is a passage of sublime heavenly goodness woven by electronics and Jazz stylings. On “No Others”, Momoko’s vocals glide over a subtle yet funky bass groove and a high hat rhythm. “Heavy” is another beauty serenaded by distinct guitar and flute melodies. “Ineffably”, fueled by gorgeous vocal arrangements is a modal jazz gem. Gill takes the tune over the top by caressing a hauntingly beautiful piano melody. Without a doubt this belongs in your collection. It definitely will be one of the best releases of 2026.
Diogo Strausz – Dance Para Se Salvar [Favorite Recordings]
Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Diogo Strausz arrived in France with an impressive resume. Strausz’s Brazilian Disco compositions have appeared on the NYC based label Razor n Tape as well as the French label Goutte d’Or. “Dance Para Se Salvar”, his latest on Favorite Recordings features an array of high energy 70s inspired Brazilian flavoured Disco recordings. “Com Magia” erupts with heart pounding percussion, The uplifting vocals are an infectious instrument in their own right. Add the funky horn arrangements and you have a timeless Disco heater. “Frevo Mulher” kicks up the tempo a notch. Strausz’s infectious guitar and synth arrangements are front and centre here. The vocal team of Dani Vie and Heloa Holanda shine throughout the album. With a tight lineup of musicians surrounding him, Strausz’s compositions pop right out the gate. He has breathed new life into the genre with eight impressive recordings you shouldn’t miss. Pull out your dancing shoes.
https://favoriterecordings.bandcamp.com/album/dance-para-se-salvar
Dina Ögon – Människobarn [Playground Music]
Dina Ögon are a four piece band from Sweden. “Manniskobarn”, their fourth album is filled with dreamy pop flavored folk compositions combined with lush vocals and upbeat melodies. The mid-tempo “Orden brann” glides on a warm piano melody and sunny vocal harmonies. “Margaretas sang” is powered by punchy guitar rhythms courtesy of Daniel Ogren. Vocalist Anna Ahnlund’s blissful vocals layered over a funky bass groove is an absolute gem. “Juvel” is a melancholy tune that will have you swaying to the melody. A delightful record and a breath of fresh air that’s certain to build a wider fan base beyond Sweden.
Maurício Fleury – Revoada [Altercat Records]
Pianist Mauricio Fleury latest release taps into the various shades of his homeland Brazil. Fleury’s musical palette is steeped in the legacy of legendary Brazilian artists from Asymuth to Deodato among others. The opener “Kadikoy” erupts with psychedelic rhythms and cinematic soundscapes. “Banhado” showcases Fleury’s wizardry on synths and his ability to deliver a hypnotic groove. “Tanto Faz” is a composition that could be mistaken for a vintage CTI recording. The soulful jazz recording consists of warm flute melodies, sweet orchestral arrangements and sublime fender rhodes. The dance floor heater “Briluz” is filled with gorgeous chords and infectious beats. It will certainly find its way onto the playlist of many DJ’s. Fleury is a founding member of Bixiga 70, a band he fronted for twelve years. He has shared the stage with the likes of Brazilian greats Gal Costa, Joao Donato and many more. He has breathed new life into the sounds of his ancestors and delivers a deeply satisfying album worthy of repeated listens.
The Daltonists – Gradient [Most Least]
“Gradient” is the new album from Daltonists. The Polish trio experiments with a mixture of genres fusion to dub recordings. The opening track “California Plum Color” is full of vibrant synths courtesy of Roman Wroblewski. Jacek Rezner drives the tune with his propulsive drumming and sets the tone for everyone to join in. “Gradient 1” pops with Afro-beat rhythms and wayward synth textures. “Oolong Color” is a progressive dub tune with meditative bass grooves. The band showcases their diversity and delivers an engaging release that should be a springboard to a wider audience.