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Daniel Casimir – Balance [Jazz re:freshed]
Bassist Daniel Casimir describes his third lp “Balance” as the balance between claasical, orchestration and UK jazz. Casimir, who also produces the album blends all of these components seamlessly. The album features the London Comtemporary Orchestra as well as a few of his friends. Nubya Garcia, Binker Goldings and Cassie Kinoshi are three quarters of the saxophone section. Jay Phelps and Sheila Maurice-Grey are part of the trumpet sections. The thumping bass on the title track sets the tone for the swirling strings and trumpet phrasings. “I’ll Take My Chances” is a warm and mellow tune that features the vibrant vocals of Ria Moran. This isn’t your father’s Big Band recording. Not only does it swing but Casimir drives the groove throughout and his compositions keep you engaged. Simply just another marvelous recording courtesy of Jazz Re:freshed.
VA – John Gómez and Nick the Record Present Tangent [Mr Bongo]
Happy ten year Anniversary to Tangent, one of London’s beloved underground parties. John Gomez and Nick the Record are residents who share some of their favorite tunes frequently played during their events. Released on Mr Bongo, the eighteen track compilation covers a myriad of styles. “Amek Amek” is an infectious blend of West African and Congolese rhythms. “Tet Chaje'” is a funky boogie tune courtesy of Kajou. “Let’s Get High” receives a re-work from Nick the Record. The result is a sixteen minute banger that bridges the gap between deep Disco to eighties synth laden boogie. Most of these tracks are obscure so good luck trying to find them. Luckily you don’t have to search, just sink into this compilation and transport yourself to one of London’s premier hotspots.
https://mrbongo.bandcamp.com/album/john-g-mez-and-nick-the-record-present-tangent
VA – Love & Purpose (Volume One) [First Word Records]
“Love & Purpose” is the brainchild of First Word label head Aly Gillani. Gillani lays out the musical progression of UK soul from the eighties to the present for independent artists. The disc begins with “Dazzle You” and “Searching”, two obscure slices of eighties synth heavy soul from Dazzle and Robyn. “Tell Me How It Feels” is one track that received international acclaim from 52nd St. “Hard Work” by Children Of Zeus represents the new face of UK soul. It’s a lovers rock inspired tune showcasing the honey soaked vocals of Tyler Daley. Lynda Dawn is another voice to get familiar with. “Roses” is laidback mid-tempo soul tailor made for chill out moments. Gillani has set the standard by creating one of the premier independent record labels for the last twenty years. From UK artists to the US, First Word has always delivered and this superb release is no exception.
https://firstwordrecords.bandcamp.com/album/love-purpose-volume-one
Tess Hirst – HERstory [Jazz Re:freshed]
Tess Hirst first came to my attention during her collaboration with Bassist Daniel Casimir. Their joint album “These Days” showcased her ethereal vocals and songwriting. In addition, she was accompanied by some of London’s premiere musicians who are at the forefront of UK club culture. Hirst’s solo debut “HERstory” picks up where that album left off. The disc kicks off with the simmering “This Is Her”. Hirst’s emotive vocals intertwine seamlessly with the Tomorrow’s Warriors string section. The finale “Magic” is a tribute to their ability to rise to any challenge. This high energy tune is spearheaded by Richard Spaven’s propulsive drumming and Casimir’s driving bass rhythms. Pianist Sarah Tandy completes the band and their cohesion is notable. London based label Jazz re:freshed continues to be the place for superb Jazz recordings. This marvelous lp is no exception.
Isatta Sheriff & Koralle – Eat The Kiwi Skin [Melting Pot Music]
London born MC Isatta Sheriff teams up with Italian beat maker Koralle. “Eat The Kiwi Skin” is filled with laidback soulful beats reminiscent of their acclaimed 2021 release, “Laid Back”. On “Window Thoughts”, fellow South Londoner MC Lex Amor jumps on board. Amor’s slow emotive tone is an ideal complement to Sheriff’s rapid fire delivery. “For Those Who Love” serenades you with swaying piano melodies and the soothing vocals from Merci. “What You Tellin Me” is classic drum snare boom bap that provides the canvas for Isatta to showcase her unlimited lyrical skills. Koralle’s laid back jazz infused beats have made him a go to producer for a number of hip hop artists. Evidence lies in the number of tasty edits on board here. Meanwhile Isatta has worked with premier talent such as Flying Lotus and Oddisee. If you dig laid back soulful hip hop then this is the lp for you. The arrow is trending upwards for these two.
https://isattasheriff.bandcamp.com/album/eat-the-kiwi-skin