Friday has graced us with its presence once again, and you know what that means—new Between The Cracks! This week’s musical buffet is truly a smorgasbord. We have everything from psychedelic funk, soul, spiritual jazz, post-rock, post-punk and more. If you’re vibing with the music, spread the love and click those links to support the artists and labels. Happy listening, music-loving folks!
Albums
Sefi Zisling – The Librarian
“The Librarian ” is the third album by renowned jazz and funk trumpeter Sefi Zisling from Tel Aviv. This album was made as an ode to the people he loves. ‘The Librarian’ is a homage to everything close to Sefi’s heart. Sefi’s musical journey started at ten when he picked up the trumpet. He sharpened his skills at the prestigious art school Thelma Yellin. In ‘The Librarian’, Sefi blends classic elements with psychedelic funk, soul, and spiritual jazz. This might be his most personal work so far and the peak of his evolution as a composer. Alongside his enchanting original compositions, there is “Song for Eyad,” a heartfelt tribute dedicated to the memory of a beautiful and innocent soul, Eyad al-Hallaq. The album also showcases a masterful cover of Mal Waldron’s poignant piece, “All Alone.” Together, these tracks weave emotion and musical brilliance that pays homage to personal inspiration and jazz heritage.
Apifera – Keep The Outside Open
“Keep The Outside Open” is the second album by Los Angeles-based psychedelic jazz quartet Apifera which consists of Nitai Hershkovits, Yuvi Havkin, Amir Bresler and Yonatan Albalak. Their alternative approach to jazz comes with a dash of prog, post-rock, and an ample amount of psychedelia. All the members are renowned musicians on their rights, that is why it doesn’t come as a surprise when they put forward such a remarkable album. This offering includes several vocal tracks, such as “Theodor Marmalade” and “The Curious Wild with lyrics that tell their personal stories of everyday life. The closing track, “Sera Sam,” also features trumpeter Avishai Cohen. Existing fans and brave souls eager to explore its more whimsical realms will undoubtedly groove with every madcap musical twist and turn inside.
SML – Small Medium Large
What a treat for the ears this is. “Small Medium Large” is the eponymous debut album by SML from Los Angeles. SML is the quintet of bassist Anna Butterss, synthesist Jeremiah Chiu, saxophonist Josh Johnson, percussionist Booker Stardrum, and guitarist Gregory Uhlmann. The album came to life in an improv session at the now-closed LA jazz venue ETA. This jazz quintet can be characterised by their heavy emphasis on improvisation and rhythm, in particular. The immaculate synchronicity among the members is the true charm of this band. “Herbie for Commercials”, “Search Bar Hi Hat”, “History of Communication”, and “Feed The Birds” are just four of the highlights of this stunning album. Try it and enjoy!
AVA Trio – The Great Green
This isn’t the jazz you think you know—nope, your smooth sax misconceptions are about to be shattered. This Amsterdam trio redefines ‘experimental’ with every note. AVA Trio consists of Giuseppe Doronzo on baritone saxophone, Esat Ekincioglu on double bass and Pino Basile on frame drums. This trio takes you to Ancient Greece through this album, where the colour ‘blue’ did not exist. ‘The Great Green’ is what people used to call the Mediterranean Sea. A folkloric influence is evident in their music; at the same time, the core of it is heavily influenced by improvisation. From the opener “Didima” to “Tsamikos”, these four tracks encapsulate how this trio stretches the boundaries of jazz and creates a style of music defined as Mediterranean Avantgarde. Highly recommended.
Reissues
SOYUZ /СОЮ3 – II (Remastered)
Back in 2022, SOYUZ (СОЮЗ) waltzed into our ears with the release of their album “Force Of The Wind”. Now, its predecessor, previously only available digitally, has been released on vinyl by Mr Bongo. This album captures a crucial chapter in the band’s evolution, serving as both a time capsule and a forecast. The recordings not only hint at the emerging sound of their forthcoming magnum opus, “Force Of The Wind”, but also resonate deeply with the avant-psychedelic-pop vibes of yesteryear. It’s like unearthing a lost treasure chest from your attic and finding your dad’s vintage vinyl and a crystal ball predicting your future collection.
Compilations
22 Beaches – Dust: Recordings 1980-1984
Seated Records dishes out a stellar mini compilation of 1980s Scottish Post-Punk/New Wave gems from Stirling’s own 22 Beaches. With tracks laid down between 1980-1984, most of which remained undiscovered – until now!
EP’s
Flaer – Burrow
Wander into the enchanting world of Burrow by Flaer – where ambient classical meets myth and memory embedded in the English countryside. This whimsical tale takes you on a trip where gently strummed guitar strings, fluttering recorders, delicate piano keys, and curious field recordings join forces to create a realm where the impossible becomes delightfully possible.
