Forgotten Treasure: Francis Bebey “La Condition Masculine” (1976, Ozileka)
Born in 1929, Francis Bebey was a multi-instrumentalist, composer, poet, story-teller, musicologist, writer, journalist, and an icon and innovator of contemporary african music. He had a profound impact on the Cameroon music scene, releasing over 20 albums from the late 60’s until he passed away in 2001. The “La Condition Masculine” album released in 1976 …
Future Classic: Books “Feel It In My Bones” (XVI Records)
Established in in 2012 by Joshua Byrne and Martin Love, XVI Records boast a diverse selection of dance music. The latest release is by West London producer Books, who, on his 3- track EP titled ‘Feel It In My Bones’ encompasses retro jazzy vibes with soulful samples and pulsating rhythms. …
Future Classic: Dan Kye “Joy, Ease, Lightness EP”
The quality of the releases on Bradley Zero’s Rhythm Section International shows no sign of diminishing. This time they’ve hooked up with Jordan Rakei for a new 4-track EP under the guise of Dan Kye. Just over three years ago, Rakei’s debut EP, Franklin’s Room, introduced the world to his …
When Hip-Hop Is Not Enough: Childish Gambino Pushes Forward On Newest Album
In the final moments of episode 6, titled “Value”, of the Donald Glover directed, written and executive produced show “Atlanta”, we are left with the image of a cherubic yet devilishly smiling black male kid in whiteface. Like most of contemporary “peak tv” shows of late, this shot of the …
Forgotten Treasure: Ray Barretto “Que Viva La Musica” (1972)
Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls had “Sirius” by The Alan Parsons Project as their intro music. Puerto Rico’s 1972 Island wide Basketball champions, Colegio San Antonio in Isabela, had “Que Viva La Musica“. My father was the starting point guard that year. Decades years latter when I was a …
Future Classic: Azymuth “Fênix” (Far Out Records)
The legendary Brazilian jazz trio Azymuth has tirelessly released more than 25 albums over a span of 40 years. After interviewing the group I knew a new album was in the works, and seeing the video of them back in the studio got me very excited. However, I was not …
Future Classic: Seven Davis Jr “Live From The Other Side”
via Secret Angels: Seven Davis Jr returns to his underground Soulful and House roots while fusing flavors from various era’s in this uptempo sophomore album. “Live From The Other Side”, plays like the soundtrack to a lovely weekend with visual designs inspired by underground festival culture and contemporary art. Dedicated …
Future Classic: Letherette “Last Night On The Planet”
via Ninja Tune: Letherette release their second album for Ninja Tune entitled “Last Night On The Planet”. Ten tracks deep and running the gamut from hip-hop (featuring raps from Rejjie Snow and Stones Throw’s Pyramid Vritra), to straight-up four-to-the-floor house trax, uptempo ‘80s R&B-inspired dancefloor heaters, and deeper, introspective downtempo …
Future Classic: Durham University Big Band “Voyage EP”
Following their incredible (but under the radar) album overDUBB, Durham University Big Band returns with three indelible slices of contemporary jazz. The nineteen strong ensemble always endeavour to practice and perform contemporary Jazz music and to convey gatherings of people nearer to both cutting edge works of art and new …