Juno Recommends Brokenbeat / Nu Jazz: May 2024

Review: Premium jazzdance from London's 2000Black in collaboration with soulful vocalist Samii; 'Circus Retreat' and its instrumental version both aim squarely for the rond-point of the big smoke's essence, channelling a sense of respite and sense-making of the anxieties of now, the "continuous confusion that surrounds us today". The lyrics affirm the unfairness of modern urban experience with a joyois irony, with lyrics like "it's not fair" and "I can't feel my feet" gliding spiritedly above a sparky broken beat peppered with sunny soul-jazz ornaments. Then, on the B, there's 'London Boogie', which swaps out the swatches to reflect more of a purple tinge by way of rhythmic Rhodeses and cutoff-filtered stabs; and 'Shrug!!', more of a chiptuney retreat into digital dance-space.

Review: 'Pili Pili' by Jasper Van't Hof catapulted the fusion band into the limelight in 1984, with its infectious blend of African rhythms and jazz sensibilities. This 12" EP, featuring the iconic 15-minute original alongside a 2024 Coyote edit, offers a complete tribute to the songs history. Remastered and cut for maximum impact, both versions showcase the band's dynamic energy and innovative approach to fusion music. From the hypnotic groove of the original to the reimagined Coyote edit, each track exudes a timeless appeal that will undoubtedly wow listeners on the dancefloor. This release is a testament to Pili Pili's enduring influence and Van't Hof's pioneering vision in bridging musical cultures.

Review: UK jazz megagroup Nubiyan Twist implore us to find our flames on their latest full-length album; it's a dubious but, for that very reason, intriguing command, and one which we're all the more inclined to see through, not least upon learning of the news that Nile Rodgers the master was involved with this record's making. 'Lights Out' cokes infused with Nile Rodgers' signature award -winning guitar style that seamlessly weaves between disco, jazz and Afrobeat, while mid-record intrigues like 'So Mi Stay' flaunt infectious dotted, broken beat rhythms and slick vocals from new group member and Sheffield vocalist Aziza Jaye.

Review: Japanese nu-jazz doesn't get any more smouldering than this deep cut from Yusuke Hirado featuring Lil Summer on vocal duties. 'Fly Away' is a mellow melter thanks in no small part to the moody strings lingering behind Hirado's fluid funk production. It's a downtempo vibe which calls to mind the UK street soul sound, contrasted by B-side joint 'Dear Limmertz' which has a more jazz funk oriented flavour. Both joints won't let you down when you want to set the mood as smooth as possible - with a seasoned pro like Hirado at the controls, what else would you expect?

Review: DJ Muggs brings his latest instrumental hip-hop tinkerings to Madlib and Egon's Invazion Music Library Series, which allows the two beatmaking legends' friends the opportunity to experiment with the form in whichever way they choose. Taking after the mood and feel of library music pieces, Silver Cloud adds to the many additions to the label to pay homage to the Piero Umilianis and Alan Hawkshaws of yore, albeit through a hip-hop lens. From 'No Time' to 'Calm Down' to 'Fast Arp', Muggs takes a functional approach to beatsmithing, crafting everything from tempo-synced, two-tone moody piano expositions to full-blown lo-fi whackers.

Review: Potatohead People's latest album, Eat Your Heart Out, marks a significant evolution for the Vancouver-based duo, Nick Wisdom and AstroLogical. Moving beyond their renowned production prowess, they step into the spotlight as vocalists, songwriters, and musicians, showcasing their versatility and talent. Thematically centered on love in its various forms and complexities, the album explores the multifaceted nature of this universal emotion. Each track delves into different aspects of love, from infatuation to heartache, featuring a diverse array of guest artists who enhance the album's sonic palette. From the classic hip-hop vibes of 'Last Nite' featuring Redman to the sultry digital funk of 'Paradise' with Diamond Cafe, the album traverses various genres with finesse. Notable collaborations with Shafiq Husayn, Ivan Ave, Abstract Rude, T3 and others further elevate the album's appeal.With its captivating melodies, infectious hooks, and stellar guest appearances, the album solidifies Potatohead People's position as a premier production duo in contemporary music.

Review: Quiet Dawn's latest offering, Celebrate, is an 11-track testament to the eclectic talent that has made him a cornerstone of the First Word family for a decade. Following in the footsteps of his previous ventures, particularly the Movements EP, this album seamlessly blends broken beat flavors with a diverse range of influences. Featuring luminaries like Bembe Segue, LyricL, and Oliver Night, Celebrate is a terrific drift through soulful grooves, lively bars and infectious rhythms. From uplifting jazz samba vibes to downtempo boom bap, Quiet Dawn effortlessly melds organic and electronic elements, creating a good dose of positivity and good vibes. Tracks like 'Celebrate,' composed with his son on his lap, and collaborations with talents like Bembe Segue and Oliver Night, highlight Quiet Dawn's ability to translate personal moments into universal celebrations of life, love and cultural diversity. With infectious energy and a message of turning negativity into positivity, Celebrate invites listeners to dance, reflect and embrace the richness of our individual journeys.

Review: Karate Boogaloo's latest album, Hold Your Horses, offers a captivating collection of original instrumental tunes from Melbourne, Australia's vibrant soul scene. The album's lead single 'One Hand One Bounce' sets the tone with its spacious and introspective vibe, all moody dynamics that draw the listener in. Drawing from influences like Booker T & The MG's and The Meters, Karate Boogaloo infuse their music with a blend of cinematic tension, whimsical melodies, and eerie discordance, all underpinned by heavy funk grooves. The band's chemistry, developed over 15+ years of friendship and musical collaboration, shines through each track, creating a cohesive, immersive listening experience. Recorded live with no overdubs, Hold Your Horses captures the raw energy and spontaneity of Karate Boogaloo's performances. The instrumental palete, limited to drums, guitar, bass and organ, establishes a consistent tone while allowing for neat shifts and nuanced execution.

Review: London-based beatmaker Joe Thornalley (aka Vegyn) has amassed a cult following surrounding his unconventional, fluid style of production. Laying in the space between dance and hip-hop, he's somewhat of a modern answer to DJ Shadow. Following his breakout success from 2022's 75-track epic 'Don't Follow Me Because I'm Lost Too!!' Vegyn has attracted the likes of Danny L Harle and JPEGMAFIA and become a low-key household name (only in cool homes, of course). 'The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Intentions' is set to release in late May,a curated world of finely picked theological samples and references already scattered about the four singles to emerge. 'Makeshift Tourniquet' hit the ground running, a sensational deep house rager that samples both the tube announcer lady and a childlike preacher against a visual backdrop of film-shot interpretive dance. 'Path Less Travelled' is a more low-key, tech-savvy cut, perfect for watching clouds go by on the Overground.

Review: Fresh from the instrumentals wing of contemporary r&b and funk label Colemine comes the new one from Tee See Connection, 'Skyline Chili Churner'. This 7" single procures two formerly-thought-lost recordings made at the basement of the Regent Drives studio in Middletown, Ohio by the band, who consist of Rob Houk on drums, Matt Amburgy on keys and Terry Cole on bass. Seemingly crafted for the express purpose of hip-hop sampling in mind, both tracks are out-and-out funkers, with the B-side's 'Queen City' going for a straight-up, kick-backed 80ish BPM, and the A's titular number laying down an interesting organic funk groove that perhaps only the more seasoned of samplers would have the guts to sift.

Review: Carlos NiNo & Friends' Placenta is a deeply conceptual and collaborative album, marking the fourth collection of their imaginative music released on International Anthem in recent years. Inspired by NiNo's experience of becoming a father again, the album is dedicated to the spirit of family, birth, and the experience of bringing new life into the world. Each track is a sonic exploration, from the soulful 'Love to all Doulas!' to the ethereal 'Moonlight Watsu in Dub.' NiNo's refusal to confine himself to genres is evident in the diverse sounds and textures woven throughout the album, reflecting his belief that friendships drive the greatest creative collaborations. With contributions from an impressive list of collaborators, Placenta is a prime example to the power of community and the boundless possibilities of musical experimentation. It's a heartfelt and visionary work that invites listeners on a transformative journey of sound and emotion.

Review: Bryony Jarman-Pinto's album Below Dawn is a deeply personal and transformative diary, reflecting her experiences leading up to becoming a mother. Produced by Ben Lamdin (Nostalgia 77), the album's jazz-inspired melodies and Bryony's harmonious vocals create an emotionally resonant atmosphere. The album's inception during the pandemic captures the emotional turmoil of the times, with tracks like 'Water Come' serving as a cathartic release for societal tensions. Bryony's introspective lyrics on tracks like 'O' and 'Leap' confront societal challenges and personal experiences, urging listeners to address ignorance and take action. As the album progresses, Bryony delves into her inner world, exploring themes of love, family, and nostalgia. 'Deep' and 'Frida-Rae' express the joy of falling in love with her newborn daughter, while 'Station Road' reflects on cherished childhood memories spent with her grandmother. Overall, Below Dawn is a poignant and introspective album that beautifully captures Bryony's life's most important parts.

Review: The Tee See Connection brings the raw essence of their final recordings at the Regent Drive studio in Middletown, OH, to a gritty 45. Comprising members of The Jive Turkeys, including Rob Houk on drums, Matt Amburgy on keys and Terry Cole on bass, this release encapsulates their dynamic musical abilities. Side-1's 'Skyline Chili Churner,' ignites with an organ burner, funky bass, and blown-out breakbeat-style drums. It's a high-octane fusion of funk and groove that sets the tone for the record. On the Side-2, 'Queen City' delivers straight-up boom bap vibes, with Matt Amburgy's keys taking center stage, cooking up a storm of rhythmic intensity. Both tracks offer rich sonic textures ripe for sampling, showcasing The Tee See Connection's ability to craft infectious rhythms and soulful melodies.

Review: Cult Vancouver duo Potatohead People, which is of course made up of Nick Wisdom and AstroLogical, finally make their return to Bastard Jazz with their much anticipated fourth album, Eat Your Heart Out. It is another great icing that builds on their renowned clean and musical production and finds the pair once again showing off their skills as vocalists, songwriters, and musicians. Over the last decade, they've been revered for their production sensibilities and that doesn't change as with each track they coop up intricate beats with jazzy melodies, summery vibes and plenty of hooky motifs that come with great guest spots from the likes of Shafiq Husayn & Ivan Ave, Kapok and many more.

Review: Capturing GoGo Penguin at a pivotal moment, From The North showcases the trio's ongoing musical evolution and is a minimal masterpiece. This limited-edition vinyl features re-arranged tracks from their EP Between Two Waves and latest album Everything Is Going to Be OK and it was recorded at Old Granada Studios in Manchester, a venue that has played a key part in their musical journey. Originally formed in 2012, the trio's emotive, break-beat minimalist style garnered critical acclaim from the off. With nominations for the Mercury Music Prize and a signing to Blue Note Records, they've released a string of celebrated albums that has backed up that early hype and now, with XXIM Records, they embark on a new chapter, blending ambient sounds with their signature style to great effect.

Review: Released on Domanda Music, this is a rich tapestry of stunning melodies and a celebration of individuality drawing from jazz and experimental music, with Brunello collaborating with a stellar lineup of artists including Yazz Ahmed, Tamar Osborn, Maurice Louca, Marco Frattini, Enrico Terragnoli, and Luca Tapino. Each track on the album unfolds like a chapter in a deeply personal journey. From the introspective 'From The Ground Up' to the evocative 'Mother Sun,' Brunello weaves together a sonic narrative that resonates with authenticity and emotion. At its core, Senseless Acts Of Love advocates for a more mindful and sustainable approach to exploration, embracing the concept of slow travel. Through collective improvisations and serendipitous moments of sonic synergy, the album fosters a sense of unity and interconnectedness. With its lush instrumentation and evocative storytelling, Brunello's masterful craftsmanship and heartfelt expression make this album a captivating listening experience that lingers long after your first listening, urging you to give it another go.

Review: Saxophonist Joe Armon-Jones teams up with vocalist Hak Baker and saxophonist Nubya Garcia for a fresh EP paying homage to the dub music tradition in the UK. 'Wrong Side Of Town' homes in on this titanic genre, riffing off the trademark 'horns cut' that would appear on the B-sides of roots reggae EPs in the 70s and 80s. With Hak's vocals effortlessly evincing a South London drawl, it's clear from the outset that usual, prejudiced ideas of what the wrong side of town would normally be is flipped on its head; truly, it's the area outside Bank station and the Royal Exchange that's the real no-go. Note: B-sider 'Nubya's Side Of Town' was also played by legendary UK sound system founder Jah Shaka in one of his last sessions before his sad passing in April 2023.

Review: Carlos NiNo & Friends' album Placenta is available in several formats including CD, translucent purple barbed double vinyl and plain black wax, which is what we have here. The record is their fourth release on International Anthem and was inspired by NiNo's recent journey into fatherhood. It pays homage to family, birth, and the wonder of new life as each track embarks on a sonic odyssey, from the soulful 'Love to all Doulas!' to the ethereal 'Moonlight Watsu in Dub.' NiNo's diverse approach traverses a spectrum of sounds and textures, reflecting his belief in the influential power of friendships to nurture creative ventures.

Review: Lau Ro's debut album Cabana is a poignant and introspective look on memory, self-discovery, and imagination, rooted in their upbringing in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and their later experiences in Europe. Recorded in a small wood cabin at the bottom of their garden, the album traverses dreamy bossa, ambient folk, fuzzy tropicalia, and majestic MPB, enveloped in masterful string arrangements and trippy electronics. Lau Ro's delicate yet confident vocals, sung in both English and Portuguese, navigate themes of urban pollution and utopian dreams rich with nature and wildlife - a journey of rediscovery, as Lau Ro reconnect with their roots while embracing their European experiences. The result is music that feels like it belongs to a parallel universe Brazil, offering a glimpse into Lau Ro's multifaceted identity and artistic vision.

Review: Karate Boogaloo are pioneers of Melbourne's cinematic instrumental soul scene, with roots deeply entrenched in the city's DIY soul movement, the quartet's musical journey from high school pals to seasoned collaborators evident in their cohesive sound. Following their acclaimed release Carn The Boogers, Hold Your Horses offers a distinct blend of instrumental funk that we find irresistible. Recorded live with a strict no overdubs policy, the album captures the band's raw energy and tight-knit chemistry. Each track seamlessly flows into the next, blending tension, melody, and funk. Bassist Henry Jenkins, the mastermind behind the band's sound, leads the recording and mixing process, ensuring a consistent sonic aesthetic across the College Of Knowledge catalogue. The collaborative songwriting approach allows the band to expand upon their strengths as musicians and friends. Stylistically, Hold Your Horses draws inspiration from deep funk, European film music and instrumental soul, showcasing a restrained yet dynamic instrumental palette.

Review: It's been a minute since we heard from Blackjoy, Jerome Caron's flagship project of mellow, jazz-minded compositions and beatdowns. His last long player Erotis dropped in 2010, no less. Now he returns on Les Rythmes Ruban with a sumptuous new excursion into downtempo pastures which picks up the thread of nostalgic French lounge refinement associated with acts like Air. Just soak up the melancholic chord progressions of 'Michel Chevalet' and you'll find yourself taken away to somewhere very pleasant indeed. There are sweet vocal cuts like 'Clouds' and much more besides on this rich and fulsome record from a seasoned pro.

Review: Trash Can Lamb is the layers solo work from Akron-based multi-instrumentalist Keith Freund. With two decades of musical exploration, Freund, known for his work with Trouble Books and Lemon Quartet, crafts an eclectic blend of analogue synthesis, piano, bass, saxophone, and field recordings. This album delves into experimental realms, melding 8-bit delays with acoustic elements that give rise to great ethereal melodies. Handmade electronics coalesce with wistful piano and saxophone melodies to make for a juxtaposition of chaos and tranquillity. Freund captures the essence of a backyard at dusk, where the cacophony of nature meets the serenity of twilight.

Review: Carlos NiNo & Friends' Placenta represents a deeply conceptual and collaborative effort and serves as their fourth album release under International Anthem. Inspired by NiNo's recent experience of fatherhood, the album reveres the essence of family, birth, and the marvel of new life. Each track embarks on a sonic voyage, from the soulful 'Love to all Doulas!' to the ethereal 'Moonlight Watsu in Dub.' NiNo's eclectic approach traverses various sounds and textures, echoing his belief in the influential force of friendships in fostering creative endeavours. With an impressive lineup of collaborators, Placenta epitomises the resilience of community and the boundless scope of musical innovation.