With so much fantastic music coming through thick and fast, it’s easy for a release to drop online and go overlooked. No lengthy write-ups as who reads those anyway? We keep it short and to the point because you’re here to listen to the music! Check out our weekly mini-guide below and if you like what you hear, click the links and support the artists.
Albums
Eiko Ishibashi – For McCoy
Japanese musician Eiko Ishibashi’s 2020 album For McCoy is back with a new and improved version mixed by Jim O’Rourke. The three-track album is dedicated to Law & Order’s Jack McCoy. The album features Ishibashi with O’Rourke, Joe Talia, Daisuke Fujiwara, MIO.O and Tatsuhisa Yamamoto. Throughout the album’s three tracks, Ishibashi weaves together elements of musique concrète, ECM-inspired jazz, lush synths, field recordings, dream pop and layered flutes. Truly special.
Jana Horn – Optimism
Jana Horn possesses a voice that can make the birds sing. On ‘Optimism’, she is in fine vocal form as she guides us through ten gentle folk-rock tracks. ‘Time Machine’ and ‘Men Meandering’ are amongst the standout tracks. Short and sweet, most of the songs don’t hit the three-minute mark, and it is the album’s longest song, ‘Jordan’, on which the beauty of her voice fully shines.
Ben McElroy – How I Learnt To Disengage From The Pack
The latest album by Ben McElroy will grab your attention from the very first note. It captures the imagination with its rich and poignant aura that leaves you spellbound. The vibe is mellow and lo-fi, while the playing just radiates warmth. ‘Store Away for a Winters Day’, ‘Hedgehogs’, ‘See More’, and Wolves Dance’ are the standout cuts. Seriously you need this achingly beautiful album in your life. ‘How I Learnt To Disengage From The Pack’ is out now via The Slow Music Movement, a label that thrives on slower grooves.
drames rurals – drames rurals
Drames Rurals is a collaborative project by John Talabot and oma totem from Hivern Discs together with Meritxell Bonastre and Juns from Futura agency. Their debut album is a collection of psychedelic dub songs that sensitively touch acid fields. Defined by low-pressure beats and choral vocals, recorded during the pandemic in 2020. It comes on three 7″ packed in a sackcloth box.
Kalabrese – Let Love Rumpel – Part 1
Bandcamp Weekly’s Andrew Jervis describe Kalabrese’s latest LP as “an album made for or made by people who used to go clubbing but who have gently aged a little bit”. It’s a pretty apt description for an album that has all the grooves in the right places but with a laidback style that makes you want to dance from the comfort of your living room rather than a sweaty club basement. It’s a fun and relaxed record that is sure to put a smile on your face. Press play and get reacquainted with Kalabrese and his eclectic bundle of fun in the form of Let Love Rumpel – Part 1.
The Brother Moves On – Tolika Mtoliki
Every year at this time, we discover a few gems from the previous year that slipped our notice. The third studio album by The Brother Moves On, titled ‘Tolika Mtoliki’, is one such hidden gem. The works of their spiritual predecessors Johnny Dyani, Philip Tabane, Malombo, Batsumi and others are reinterpreted on their latest album. Matsuli Music has released another excellent album once again.
Peyton – PSA
Somehow Peyton’s album PSA slipped under our radar when it dropped last year. We’re pleased to be finally making its acquaintance as it’s a pleasing 12-track blend of contemporary RnB and leftfield soul from the talented singer-songwriter. Sublime from start to finish and an excellent debut.
Compilations
OKI – Tonkori In The Moonlight (1996 – 2006)
Tonkori in the Moonlight (1996 – 2006) is an 11-track collection of mostly traditional songs performed by indigenous Ainu musician OKI, an accomplished player of the rare Tonkori instrument; he skillfully blends tender tonkori melodies, meditative dub excursions, and Ainu folk songs. The music evokes memories and moods with calming vibes, Ainu harp sounds, and gentle melodic hooks.
Various Artist – One Night in Pelican
Explore Soweto’s infamous nightclub ‘Club Pelican’s story and sounds during the height of apartheid with ten classic tracks that traverse jazz, funk, fusion, disco, and more. Over ten years in the making, this seminal album features key groups and players of the time: Abacothozi, Almon Memela’s Soweto, The Black Pages, Dick Khoza and the Afro Pedlars, and other incredible acts. A highly recommended release.
First Time On Vinyl
Maria Zwarg – Nascentes
Maria Zwarg’s debut album and first solo project, now available on vinyl, is a brilliant work from start to finish by the flautist, composer and arranger. Zwarg continues to spread the tradition of “universal music”, created by her godfather, the legendary Hermeto Pascoal, who features on the album. If you didn’t catch this fantastic release back in 2020, now’s your chance to get acquainted. We can’t recommend this LP highly enough.
