Astigmatic Poland Vinyl & CDs

Review: Highly-anticipated debut LP from Polish quartet Bloto. Heavy, instrumental hip-hop inspired jazz. Killer release!

Review: Polish experimentalists Bloto consider themselves indebted to the hip-hop and trip hop of the 90s, particularly the atmospheric cuts that stuck out of the ends of otherwise harder-hitting records. Staying true to the work ethic of the titans that preceded them, the band laid down three full-length records in 2020 before then jetting off on tour; only now in 2024 does Grzybnia follow as its the fourth prong on what was originally thought to be a trident. 'Grzybnia' is the Polish word for mycelium; this record is just as decidedly decompository in sound, its ad-hoc use of electronic and live drumming - wherever each might be needed best - sounding like the sinewy, by-any-means-necessary action of a fungal hypha, rootling deep into soils to unearth what might still lie dormant there. The live jazz, trip-hop and hip-hop admixture here is a real Frankenstein, 'Shiitake' standing out amongst the chitinous caps; Bloto consider it a response to an "unstable modern world that is breaking apart into pieces", and in which mycelium offers a powerful model of the potential resilience of life despite it.

Review: Polish producer Latarnik and American vocalist Anthony Mills collide on this new album for Polish label Astigmatic to explore lo-fi hip-hop, soul, dub and experimental electronics. Mills's falsetto vocal brings great Neo-soul warmth to Crack Rock with emotionally charged tones soaring over the production which ranges from sugary and 80s-tinged disco and boogie on 'Crack' to deep, seductive and gooey on 'Passive Lover' which is a more romantic sound. Latarnik's work is often minimal yet immersive which creates space for Mills' voice to shine and is delivered in equal parts spoken word, chant and soulful croon. The hypnotic, slow-burning soundscapes that result are both intimate and confrontational, ready to make you dance but also often just to feel. Unapologetically raw and deeply human, this one lingers long after the final track ends.

Review: EABS' forthcoming album, Reflections of Purple Sun, marks a significant return to their roots while paying homage to the iconic figure of Polish jazz, Tomasz Stanko. Stanko's album, Purple Sun, recorded fifty years ago, heavily emphasized rhythm, serving as the central element of his work. EABS' interpretation of this landmark album is a profound study in rhythm, aptly reflected in the title. Recorded in Stanko's former residence in Warsaw, where his presence still lingers palpably, the album captures the essence of his musical legacy. The band's meticulous attention to detail is evident, from Marek Pedziwiatr's use of Stanko's piano to Jakub Kurek's selection of Stanko's last trumpet, the Monette XLT+. This instrument, chosen for its lively and spacious sound, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Stanko's artistic vision. Astigmatic Records' comprehensive booklet accompanying the record provides further insight into the album's creation, while the cover art pays homage to Pia Burri's original concept. Overall, Reflections of Purple Sun is a compelling and evocative journey through the rhythmic landscapes of Polish jazz, honoring Stanko's legacy while forging new paths in musical exploration.

Review: This all new EABS meets Jaubi In Search of a Better Tomorrow long player is the result of musical bridges having been formed between Jaubi and the releases on Astigmatic Records and collaborations between musicians from Europe and Asia and EABS members' trips to Pakistan and Poland. It is a world sound with Moogs, bass guitars, grand pianos, Fender Rhodes, clarinets, saxophones and vocals all colliding tradition with new school thinking. Hip-hop elements, improvisation and spiritual jazz and Hindustani ragas all feature in this most cultural and musical melting pots.

Review: While Americans often get much of the credit for pioneering jazz work, there are outliers like Polish jazz trumpeter and composer Tomasz Stanko who also deserve plenty of plaudits. He was right at the vanguard of the avant garde jazz scene in Europe and this album of his is one of his homeland, and the wider scenes, greatest records. He played with a quintet that was shrouded in mystery and they constantly evolved their sound throughout their careers. Wooden Music is an album that pulls together some of their finest work from free and vigorous sounds to more structured explorations of jazz.