This week’s guide is by CF Smith and contributor Irfan Ayaan.
Hello and welcome to our first Between the Cracks of 2025. As the new releases slowly make their entrance, we’re also still reminiscing about some of last year’s hidden gems that almost slipped through the cracks. We have everything from, lo-fi folk soul, classical indian, acoustic ambience and more. Dive into our latest selection, and if something tickles your eardrums, follow the buy link to make it yours! Enjoy the music.
Albums
Yahya aka Constantine Weir – Service Rendered
Ever heard of Yahya. also known as Constantine Weir? If not, you should change that immediately! The former Galliano member seamlessly fuses folk, soul, and jazz across five distinct tracks. Service Rendered glides smoothly from track to track, beginning with the expansive ‘Dried Tears,’ while ‘Lovely Lovely’ and ‘Contradictions’ steal the spotlight. The album as a whole is a beautiful journey into the artist’s universe, wrapping itself warmly in the embrace of Sufism. Yahya’s spiritual bond with the divine shines through the album, illuminating each track with a sense of soul-stirring devotion and transcendence. Press play and let Yahya’s music nourish your soul. – CFS
Giridhar Udupa – My Name Is Giridhar Udupa
Giridhar Udupa’s debut solo album, My Name Is Giridhar Udupa, is a fascinating window into the world of Ghatam, an ancient South Indian percussion instrument. This Bengaluru-based master percussionist, who has been playing since age nine, showcases his virtuosity across four entrancing tracks. The album’s sound is a hypnotic blend of traditional Carnatic rhythms and contemporary production techniques, courtesy of collaborator Shackleton. Udupa’s intricate rhythmic patterns create expansive sonic landscapes that evolve and mutate, drawing listeners into a trance-like state. Standout track Adi opens the album with a dark, foreboding atmosphere, showcasing Udupa’s ability to weave complex rhythmic networks that challenge the listener’s expectations. Bhoomi, the most extended piece, is an epic journey through various moods and textures, demonstrating the Ghatam’s versatility and Udupa’s masterful control of the instrument. My Name Is Giridhar Udupa is a groundbreaking fusion of ancient tradition and modern sensibilities. It’s a must-listen for fans of world music and innovative percussion, offering a unique glimpse into the possibilities of this often-overlooked instrument. An excellent introduction, Giridhar Udupa is definitely one to watch! – IA
Work Money Death – People Of The Fast Flowing River
If you haven’t dived into Work Money Death’s brilliant spin on spiritual jazz, it’s high time you did—especially with their latest album, People Of The Fast Flowing River, as your soundtrack. This Leeds-based ensemble, led by saxophonist Tony Burkill, delivers a powerful and immersive listen across four expansive tracks. The album’s sound is a rich tapestry of instrumental voices, blending traditional jazz elements with a spiritual edge. The core trio of Burkill, bassist Neil Innes, and drummer Sam Hobbs are augmented by an impressive array of guest musicians, adding depth and texture to the sonic landscape. Standout track We Are The People is a sprawling 14-minute opus that showcases the group’s ability to build and sustain hypnotic grooves. The title track, The Fast Flowing River, opens the album with a captivating blend of rhythmic intensity and melodic exploration. Work Money Death demonstrates a masterful command of dynamics and space, allowing each composition to breathe and evolve organically. The inclusion of instruments like harmonium, euphonium, and contrabass clarinet adds unique colours to the ensemble’s palette.- IA
Trio Ramberget x Matti Bye – Mirror Variations
In a beautiful acoustic ambience and avant-garde jazz meeting, Mirror Variations marks the debut collaboration between Trio Ramberget and pianist Matti Bye. This Swedish ensemble, born from a spark ignited during their Drone Positions project, pushes the boundaries of improvisation and composition. The album’s six tracks weave a tapestry of sound, exploring the interplay of shape, presence, and time. Trio Ramberget’s unique instrumental voice blends seamlessly with Bye’s muted piano and electronics, creating a new sonic landscape. The group’s experimental approach shines through their use of unconventional percussion, including vibraphonette and tubular bells. The standout track Tempera/Tempera Convex opens the album with a sprawling 10-minute journey, setting the tone for the ethereal explorations. Celadon closes the set with a similarly expansive piece, showcasing the quartet’s mastery of tension and release. Mirror Variations defies easy categorisation, straddling the line between contemporary classical, ambient, and free jazz. It’s a bold statement from artists unafraid to push their craft into uncharted territories.– IA
KARL ONIBUJE – YOKAYU
Karl Onibuje’s fourth album, YOKAYU, is a captivating sonic journey through London’s cultural kaleidoscope. This seasoned artist crafts a reflective exploration of the city’s diverse musical landscape, skillfully navigating the collision and convergence of its myriad influences. YOKAYU presents a 40-minute tapestry of alt-UK jazz, weaving together rock, afrobeat, jazz, and electronic elements. Onibuje’s experimental approach to groove music creates a rich, textured soundscape that’s both challenging and rewarding. Standout tracks include London Hymnal, a brief but poignant ode to the city’s musical heritage, and Kind of Fuji, which showcases Onibuje’s masterful fusion of disparate genres. The album benefits from collaborations with notable artists like Yohan Kebede, Yusuf Ahmed, and Miryam Soloman, as well as the return of Kinzli from retirement. Onibuje’s production and arrangement skills shine throughout, creating a cohesive yet diverse listening experience. YOKAYU is a testament to London’s vibrant music scene and Onibuje’s artistic vision. It’s a must-listen for those who appreciate boundary-pushing jazz that reflects the complexity of urban cultural fusion. – IA
Wojtek Mazolewski Quintet and Wojtek Mazolewski – Beautiful People
Wojtek Mazolewski Quintet’s Beautiful People is a soulful journey into contemporary spiritual jazz that doesn’t forget its Slavic roots. This Polish ensemble, led by the renowned bassist Wojtek Mazolewski, returns with a refreshed lineup and a renewed energy that’s palpable throughout the album. Mazolewski, a virtuoso bassist and composer, has long been a pioneer in Poland’s jazz scene, blending traditional elements with modern flair. His ability to fuse classic and contemporary styles has earned him acclaim from prestigious jazz publications worldwide. Beautiful People showcases the quintet’s evolution, presenting a mature sound that is innovative and respectful of jazz traditions. The album’s ten tracks, recorded at Polish Radio’s S4 studio, capture the band’s live energy and hunger for new sonic territories. Standout tracks like New Energy and The Art of Joy exemplify the album’s spirit, marrying intricate compositions with soulful performances. The interplay between Marcel Balinski’s piano and Piotr Chęcki’s saxophone is particularly noteworthy, creating lush soundscapes that complement Mazolewski’s robust bass lines. Highly recommended. – IA
