Always on the hunt for musical gems we can’t get enough of, we’ve handpicked six releases we’re excited about just for you. Dive into these fresh releases and discover some new albums to add to your collection! If our musical picks pique your interest, show some love to the artists and labels by hitting that buy or share button. Happy listening music lovers!
Albums
Mulatu Astatke & Hoodna Orchestra – Tension
Ethio-jazz legend Mulatu Astatke collaborates with the Tel Aviv Afro-funk crew, the Hoodna Orchestra, blending his enchanting vibraphone melodies with their dynamic brass section. The album features seven original compositions that pay tribute to the classic Mulatu sound while forging fresh paths. This album is another exceptional addition to the Aatatke catalogue, and the chemistry between them feels both relaxed yet energetic. An absolute delight for the ears!
Niwel Tsumba – Milimo
Niwel Tsumbu’s Milimo is a journey transcending borders and genres, weaving a rich tapestry of global sounds. Hailing from the Democratic Republic of Congo and based in Ireland, Tsumbu is known for his virtuosic guitar skills and fusion of diverse musical traditions. This debut solo album showcases his unique ability to seamlessly blend classical, African, and jazz influences. The album traverses continents, melding the rhythmic complexities of African beats with the improvisational spirit of jazz and the structural elegance of classical music. His compositions are characterized by complex rhythms, poignant melodies, and a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Tracks like Rubato and Polyphony highlight his intricate guitar work, crafting technically impressive and emotionally resonant melodies. Standout pieces include Gracias Paco, a tribute that blends flamenco flair with African rhythms, honouring the legendary Paco de LucÃa. The title track, Milimo, captivates with its soulful vocals and intricate guitar arrangements, while Afrique Moderne offers a modern take on traditional African sounds, creating a vibrant sonic landscape. Milimo is a masterful solo debut that showcases Tsumbu’s extraordinary talent and bridges musical cultures innovatively.
Nomade Orquestra – Terceiro Mundo
With Terceiro Mundo, Nomade Orquestra transports listeners to a vibrant soundscape where genres collide and cultures converge. São Paulo’s genre-bending instrumental collective returns with its fifth studio album, teaming up with New York’s Nublu Records to close a significant conceptual cycle—a trilogy that has defined its aesthetic. Recorded during the pandemic’s isolation, Terceiro Mundo is a patchwork quilt of sounds blending ’70s deep-funk and soul with jazzy experiments, loping rhythms, and offbeat time signatures—all infused with a distinct Brazilian touch. The album pulses with grooves, energetic beats, powerful brass sections, and a fusion of flutes and ethnic instruments, crafting rich soundscapes that transport listeners without leaving their seats. Standout tracks like Mariposa Tigre captivate with swirling melodies and rhythmic complexity. At the same time, Revolução dos Cocos delivers an invigorating mix of funk-infused brass and percussive flair. Each piece feels like a journey, weaving together revitalized old ideas and new compositions crafted exclusively for this project. Terceiro Mundo is a triumphant culmination of Nomade Orquestra’s innovative exploration—a must-listen for those seeking a transcendent musical experience that defies genre boundaries.
MOMO – Gira
MOMO’s Gira is a fusion of Brazilian tradition and London’s contemporary jazz scene. From the first notes of Pára, featuring Jessica Lauren’s soulful keyboards, the album draws you into a rich sonic landscape. MOMO, the Rio de Janeiro-born artist also known as Marcelo Frota, channels the spirit of 1970s Tropicália and icons like Os Mutantes and Milton Nascimento yet infuses his music with modern flair. The collaborative nature of Gira is evident, boasting contributions from London’s finest jazz talents, such as saxophonist Tamar Osborn, trombonist Rosie Turton, drummer Nick Woodmansey and vocalist Liz Elensky. The result is a cross-cultural tapestry where Brazilian rhythms meet British jazz improvisation. Tracks like My Mind stand out with Osborn’s entrancing saxophone lines, while Summer Interlude offers a lush journey propelled by Turton’s warm trombone tones. MOMO’s ability to blend genres shines throughout the album. His expressive vocals and guitar work are complemented by an array of instruments, from the baritone sax to the glockenspiel. Each song unfolds like a story, revealing new layers upon each listen. Gira is an album that demands attention, a testament to MOMO’s artistic vision. It’s a must-listen for fans of Sessa, Caetano Veloso, and those intrigued by the seamless melding of cultures.
Dora Morelenbaum – Pique
Dora Morelenbaum’s Pique is a luminous debut that establishes her as a rising star in Brazil’s music scene. Known for the Latin Grammy-winning band Bala Desejo, Dora steps into the spotlight with a personal and expansive artistic vision. Collaborating with co-producer Ana Frango Elétrico, she blends jazz, funk, disco, and MPB with an indie-pop sensibility, creating a nostalgic and contemporary sound. The album oscillates between energetic grooves and celestial melodies, bridging past and present with charm. Venha Comigo bursts with funk-infused vitality, highlighting the synergy between Dora and Ana. Its lively rhythms and playful arrangements make it a standout. In contrast, tracks like A Melhor SaÃda invite listeners into a laid-back atmosphere, showcasing Dora’s ability to craft enveloping sonic landscapes. Another highlight, VW Blue, delivers virtuosic jazz-funk flair, underscoring her versatility and musicality. Throughout the album, Dora’s ethereal vocals and poignant songwriting shine, weaving a tapestry that’s both intimate and expansive. Overall, Pique is a bold statement from Morelenbaum—an album honouring her roots while exploring new artistic horizons. It’s a must-listen for anyone eager to experience the vibrant evolution of Brazilian music.
Unknown To Known – Lightship
Set aboard a docked Lightship in East London’s docklands, Unknown to Known delivers an enchanting voyage through jazz’s most ethereal landscapes. This quartet—featuring Idris Rahman on tenor saxophone and bansuri, Tamar Osborn on baritone saxophone and flute, Jihad Darwish on bass and sitar, and Yusuf Ahmed on drums and homemade percussion—represents some of the most innovative voices in the contemporary London jazz scene. The album weaves meandering melodies with textural grooves, creating harmonic landscapes that are both honest and raw. There’s a euphoria in their dynamic interplay, a testament to their commitment to long-form improvisations reflecting personal transformations and our rapidly evolving world. The soundscapes are rich in colour and depth, gradually unveiling intricacies that invite listeners into moments of calm and joy. Standout tracks include Open Your Heart, an 11-minute journey showcasing the quartet’s interactive synergy, and Through The Looking Glass, where propulsive rhythms meet closely knit harmonies fronted by the emotive woodwinds of Rahman and Osborn. Letters from Bengal, though brief, offer a haunting interlude that seamlessly bridges moods. Unknown to Known is a moody, gliding masterpiece that lights up and transcends the jazz scene; this album is a must-listen for anyone seeking depth and innovation in modern jazz.
