We’re back with another Between The Cracks selection featuring essential releases from around the world – this week, improvised jazz, solo piano pieces, cinematic atmospherics, deep house experimentations and more. Hopefully, you’ll discover a few new releases you love and have you itching to hit the buy button. Below, you will find our latest picks.
Albums
Kaze – Unwritten
This album is about being in the moment and letting the music lead the way. Imagine this – crafting new compositions right on the spot. With no prior briefings, requests, or even a clue about the musical journey ahead, Unwritten by Kaze is full of beautiful surprises. The quartet go from thundering intensity to haunting, otherworldly beauty in the blink of an eye. There’s little else to say except press play and enjoy.
Skyjack – Light Cycle
Put some jazz juice into your Friday and get a mouth-watering taste of Light Cycle by Skyjack. This unique trans-continental collaboration sees a heavyweight jazz trio from South Africa (Shane Cooper, Kyle Shepherd, & Jonno Sweetman) join forces with two exceptional brass and reed players from Sweden (Andreas Tschopp & Marc Stucki). They blend deep, hypnotic rhythms beautifully with cosmic soundscapes and innovative experimentation that sails smoothly across the expansive jazz space. Light Cycle is a broad fusion of jazz that nods to tradition while engrossing itself in the rush of the present and forecasting glimpses of the future.
Ambrose Akinmusire, Bill Frisell, & Herlin Riley – Owl Song
If you appreciate the velvety feel of jazz music, creating a spacious, rich tapestry of emotions, consider adding this album to your wish list. California-raised trumpet master Ambrose Akinmusire’s slow-burning new album Owl Song is like the bird itself, with each note reflecting the owl’s hauntingly beautiful hoot that echoes in the silence of the night, drawing you into a world where melody meets mystery. Reflective, serene, and captivating, just like the owl, this album marks another milestone in Akinmusire’s illustrious trumpet-playing career.
Elan Mehler – Trouble In Mind
Pianist and bandleader Elan Mehler elegantly presents stunning solo piano pieces while also offering fresh takes on compositions from legends such as Ellington, Mingus, Frisell, and more. Mehler’s work on this album stands out, embodying the timeless beauty of powerful solo piano magic and showcasing an artistic style that dares to re-explore classic compositions with a novel twist, making them sparkle anew.
E. Lundquist – Art Between Minds
E. Lundquist’s latest release, “Art Between Minds”, is a masterful blend of experimental jazz, cinematic atmospherics, and 70s funk-inspired grooves. With seamless instrumental textures and nostalgic flavours, Lundquist crafts an immersive auditory journey that looks fondly at the past while pushing music forward. Standouts “Soliloquy” and “Euphoria” exude laidback, sun-drenched vibes, while “Escape” marries haunting horns and captivating synths. Vintage gear like the Fender Rhodes and Mellotron adds organic touches to the electronic sound. Lundquist’s skill in balancing analog warmth and digital precision while fully embracing his jazz-funk leanings makes “Art Between Minds” a highlight of his diverse discography. Fans of inventive jazz, imaginative scores, and vintage funk will find joy in the nostalgia and innovation of this ambitious release. It’s an engrossing experience that captures the essence of past eras while remaining firmly focused on the future.
Compilations
Future Bubblers 7.0 – V/A
The brilliant Giles Peterson-backed Future Bubblers compilation series returns with its seventh edition! This incredible platform supports unsigned, fresh talent and draws in discerning listeners who have an ear for new, eclectic music. It features tracks from Michael Diamond, Landel, Petrelli Purple, Marysia Osu, and more.
EP’s
TAMTAM – Ramble In The Rainbow
The only problem with this EP from Tokyo’s TAMTAM is that it ends too quickly. Their heavenly, pop-infused, buttery jazz and dreamy soul sound is a soothing balm that the world craves. So, at just 19 minutes in length, there’s only one thing to do – start it over again and again. A must listen for fans of Dina ögon and Ada.
Arnheim – Silhouette Dance
If your ears have yet to be blessed by the magical vibrations of producer and DJ Arnheim, it truly is time they did! You’ll hear four delectable slices of jazz-inspired house that work equally in dark clubs or grimy basements as they do in the comfort of your living room. One thing, though – you’ll want to turn the volume up for this one!
