Review: Who can resist a lovely one-sided, blue-marbled 12" that is mad limited? Well it depends on the tune, of course, and the good news is this one from Wicked Disco on the newly minted eponymous label is superb. 'Too Late Is What You Are' is an action-packed fusion of Afro soul, organic percussion, disco grooves and wet finger clicks topped off with a soul-drenched vocal and some big horns. The arrangement is fulsome but never over-loaded which means this one has it all, basically, and will bring great times to any dancefloor.
Review: Waaju & Majid Bekkas's Alouane exemplifies the power of collaboration during challenging times. As bringing overseas artists to the UK grows increasingly difficult, this record bridges cultural and generational gaps while capturing the vibrant energy of live collaboration post-Covid-19. Conceived by Waaju bandleader Ben Brown, the album features his expansive arrangements of traditional Gnawa songs and blends Bekkas' musical prowess with Waaju's signature grooves and trippy delays. Bekkas, a key figure in Moroccan Gnawa music, had never collaborated with a UK band until this project. Alouane, meaning "colours" in Arabic, reflects the seven integral colours of Gnawa music, each invoking different spirits.
Review: Norwegian pianist and composer Bugge Wesseltoft, a jazz innovator known for the diversity of his sound, is back with 'Am Are,' which is an expressive exploration of many sonic textures and dynamic contrasts. This album showcases Wesseltoft's inspiring collaborations with a constellation of superb musicians who bridge generations and styles. From sparse arrangements to complex layers of dubs and loops, Am Are highlights the power of human connection through improvisational interplay. Wesseltoft's curated selection demonstrates his passion for projects that spark creativity and celebrate the beauty of musical communication and make another fine addition to his catalogue.
Review: Sven Wunder's new album Natura Morta (which translates as dead nature) finds him joining the dots between nature and "the human ability to judge and observe in eleven musical compositions." The Swedish artist really excels on his mission here with serene and sophisticated strings on grandiose and sweeping opening track 'En Plein Air.' From there, the airy sounds continue with melancholic chords and exquisite strings all soothing the soul as they take you on a journey through the great outdoors. The lush title track is a particular standout with its widescreen feel and romantic acoustic sounds.
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