It’s that time of the week again! We know music plays a key role in your lives, yet sometimes, it can be hard to carve out time to explore all the best new releases. That’s why we, at our end, devote our time each week to gather a selection of new music releases that you might have missed. Each Friday we handpick a list of our most loved under the radar gems. Hopefully you’ll discover some new records to fall in love with and add to your own collection.
Albums
Cosmic Analog Ensemble – Les Grandes Vacances
The ever brilliant Jakarta Records has rolled out yet another jewel. This time, they’re unveiling “Les Grandes Vacances”, courtesy of the amazingly talented multi-instrumentalist, Charif Megarbane aka Cosmic Analog Ensemble. The LP is a wide-ranging journey that crafts a harmonious mosaic using a diverse array of sound instruments. Groovy rhythms, ethereal tunes, and a touch of cinematic charm come together to forge an experience that defies the constraints of time. Hit play and let CAE guide you through the nostalgic notes of yesteryears and the innovative sounds of tomorrow.
Harry James – Off The Record
If, like me, you are a sucker for low-fi jazz and beats, as well as ear-pleasing hooks, then ‘Off The Record’ by Harry James (with the help of Gerald Bailey, Rob Frye, Keefe Jackson, and Dave McDonnell) may have everything you love. The opening cut, ‘Circles of Circumstance’, gives a tantalising taste, but it is a lovely, diverse project.
Organic Pulse Ensemble – Zither Suite
Although it’s no longer a surprise, we can’t help but be impressed that the array of sounds coming from our speakers is the work of one man. Whether it’s the soulful notes of a saxophone, the enchanting melody of a flute, the mighty blare of a trumpet, the harmonious chords from keys, or the rhythmic beats of drums – every sound is birthed from the prodigious hands of Gustav Horneij. It’s a superb album that subtly changes the OPE recipe, but the music remains deep with a touch of the spiritual, never falling into the trap of excessive noodling.
Ancient Infinity Orchestra – River Of Light
For anyone seeking top-class spiritual jazz, this is a superb debut from Ancient Infinity Orchestra, a 14-member ensemble led by double bassist and composer Ozzy Moysey. Their killer 10-track album, rooted in the soulful vibes of Pharoah Sanders, Alice Coltrane, and John Coltrane, is for those seeking an uplifting musical experience. Throughout the album, a relaxing and spiritual atmosphere pervades. You won’t be disappointed.
Muriel Grossmann – Devotion
Muriel Grossmann’s latest album, “Devotion”, is a masterclass in spiritual jazz that deserves your undivided attention. Grossmann crafts transcendent tracks that transport listeners to higher planes by blending saxophone, percussion, and a tapestry of global sounds. “Absolute Truth” sets the tone with its 21-minute spiritual journey, while “Calm” and “Care” embody their serene titles. The saxophone work on “All Heart” captures human emotion at its essence. The title track is the album’s emotive core, featuring Grossmann’s riveting dedication to her craft. World music elements like tambura, kalimba, and harmonium add global grooves to the jazz foundation. Overall, “Devotion” sees Grossmann pushing creative boundaries with stunning versatility across instruments and genres. More than a jazz album, it is a sacred experience that establishes Grossmann among the great modern jazz innovators. Give this album your time, and Grossmann will reward you with devotion.
Espen Horne – The Anatomy Of Serene Eloquence
After a long absence, Norwegian producer Espen Horne returns triumphantly with his spellbinding new solo album “The Anatomy of Serene Eloquence”. This diverse collection seamlessly fuses jazz, soul, dub and downtempo, transporting listeners on an atmospheric sonic trip. Standout opening track “Bakeren” hooks you in immediately with hypnotic rhythms and stirring vocals from Faye Houston. “O Mar e a Lua” continues the magic with Olav Wöllo’s captivating talents. “Bergen Sunrays” brings vibrant energy with its funky rhythms and mesmerising vocals from Selim Mutic. Horne demonstrates his artistry throughout the album through ethereal melodies, introspective beats, and nuanced compositions. Vocals from Houston, Wöllo, Aich, and others add texture. The tranquil “La Psychosomnie” encapsulates the album’s central theme of serene eloquence. From start to finish, Horne elaborates a cohesive musical narrative that leaves you contemplating the many emotions and horizons explored. This is a welcome return for Horne and an excellent addition to any collection.
Fabiano Nascimento – Mundo Solo
The Brazilian, ambient, folk, and jazz worlds are all woven together beautifully by Fabiano Nascimento. Over 15 tracks, Fabiano tracks imagined landscapes with expressive, expansive improvisation in his latest endeavour, using guitars from 6, 7 and 10 strings, an octave guitar, an electric baritone guitar, and a host of pedals and synthesisers. ‘Mundo Solo’ will be on repeat for a long time.
EP’s
Nautilus – Live At King Georg
Live albums aren’t usually my jam, but the Tokyo-based jazz trio Nautilus’s energy and mind-blowing improvisations burst out of the speakers. Trust me, even if you’re not typically into live recording releases like me, Nautilus will change your mind and make you appreciate the magic of capturing the essence of a live performance.
