New music - w16
Week 16 Music Discoveries: London Jazz gems and Brazilian treasures
Hey there, fellow groove seekers! Today, I'm absolutely stoked to share four incredible records that have been spinning non-stop on my turntable. Each one's a unique journey through different corners of the jazz universe, from London's cutting-edge scene to lost Brazilian treasures. Let's dive in!
Joe Armon-Jones - All The Quiet (Part I)
LABEL: Aquarii Records GENRE: Jazz - Dub
London's jazz scene keeps delivering pure gold, and Joe Armon-Jones is one of its brightest stars. Known for his work with Ezra Collective, Joe's latest solo venture is a masterclass in genre-bending brilliance. He takes his virtuosic keyboard skills and weaves them through a tapestry of jazz-funk, dub, and hip-hop influences. The result? A sound that's both deeply rooted in tradition yet completely fresh and forward-thinking.
Okonski - Entrance Music
LABEL: Colemine Records GENRE: Jazz
Sometimes, an album comes along that just feels like a warm embrace. That's exactly what Steve Okonski and his North Carolina trio have created with "Entrance Music." Recorded at Terry Cole's Portage Lounge in Ohio, this album is pure meditation for your ears. It's the kind of record that makes time stand still - perfect for those moments when you need to step back from the world's chaos and find your center.
Black Flower - Kinetic
LABEL: SDban Records GENRE: Jazz
Belgium's Black Flower has always been about breaking boundaries, and "Kinetic" takes that spirit to new heights. Led by Nathan Daems' masterful saxophone and flute work, the quintet creates a mesmerizing fusion of cosmic jazz, Ethio-grooves, and Eastern influences. When heavyweights like Gilles Peterson and Lefto are singing your praises, you know you're onto something special. This isn't just an album; it's a sonic journey around the world.
🎵 Purchase on SDBAN's Bandcamp
Edison Machado & Boa Nova - Edison Machado & Boa Nova
LABEL: Far Out Recordings GENRE: Jazz
Talk about buried treasure! This 1978 New York session from Brazilian drum legend Edison Machado is the kind of discovery that makes record collectors weak in the knees. Machado, the pioneer of "samba no prato" (samba on cymbals), created something truly special here - a perfect fusion of North and South American jazz traditions. Recorded during his exile from Brazil's dictatorship, this 80-minute masterpiece showcases Machado at his creative peak, surrounded by an all-star ensemble.
🎵 Get it from Far Out Recordings
For Your Next Spin...
If these records hit the spot, here are some complementary listening suggestions:
Fans of Joe Armon-Jones should check out Alfa Mist's "Variables" and Emma-Jean Thackray's "Yellow"
If you dig Okonski's meditative vibe, try Matthew Halsall's "Salute to the Sun" or Bill Evans' "Peace Piece"
Black Flower enthusiasts will love Mulatu Astatke's classic "Mulatu of Ethiopia" and The Cosmic Range's "The Gratitude Principle"
For more Brazilian jazz fusion like Edison Machado, dive into Dom Salvador's "My Family" and Airto Moreira's "Seeds on the Ground"
Remember, these records aren't just pieces of vinyl - they're portals to different worlds, different times, and different perspectives. Happy listening, friends!
Check out the FAB 50 playlist on Spotify for all of my recent discoveries!
