Believe Recordings Vinyl & CDs

Review: London-born Ashley Henry returns with his latest project, Who We Are via Naive Records. This new release highlights Henry's distinctive approach to music, blending introspective self-expression with vibrant jazz influences. Who We Are is a rich blend of sound where Henry's ethereal falsetto meets lush piano melodies and rhythmic percussion. His self-produced compositions create an inviting sonic space that highlights his introspective lyrics and deep-rooted self-assurance. The album reflects Henry's journey through self-discovery and collective empowerment, urging listeners to value each other's dreams and find inspiration within their communities. Henry's music draws from his London upbringing and Jamaican heritage, combining classical training with the profound influences of Black radical traditions. Inspired by icons such as James Baldwin, Angela Davis, Ahmed Jamal and George Benson, Henry's work resonates with both historical depth and contemporary relevance.

Review: A fairly top level team of talent has been assembled for this album. Jessy Lanza, Paul White, Greg Abrahams and frequent collaborator Joe Brown have all produced alongside Lapsley for this third intimate record. It's a world of universal exploration and cautionary tales that is eclectic in makeup. Like all good music listening to it serves as therapy as beautiful confessions and soulful sounds that touch on love, growth and loss all feature across the 12 moving tracks. It might be the best work yet from the talented Lapsley.

Review: The superb Emile Londonien band returns with their second album, Inwards, which is one that manages to showcase their evolution as well as deepening ties to the British jazz scene with collaborations from artists like Ashley Henry, CHERISE and Kazy Lambist. True to form, Emile Londonien brings their unique style to life here across some majestic cuts that range in mood and groove. They blend broken beat, house, jazz and r&b in a fresh, distinctive way which means that Inwards reaffirms their talent for merging genres, pushing boundaries but also retaining their signature sound.