Nick Marks-Cinematic Chromatics Vol. 1
Nick Marks orchestrates some pretty cool genre infusions. This cinematic jazztronica is what an open thought lab of art lovers would create. Nick has to be one of a kind, making the genre a unique dip of sub-genres that aren’t usually approached. The result is something worth experiencing, and enjoying. This is Cinematic Chromatics Vol. 1. Prelude/Arc of Light opens this incredible EP. It is an intense flow of strings, something that boils down to some creative confluences-and then the percussion arrives. The audio explosion is enough to create enough joyful drama. You’ll feel like you’re listening to Snarky Puppy, if they advanced to this layered, fusion based approach. The shifts are sometimes abrupt, and capitalise on that creative change. Nick Marks is the kind of orchestrator that just starts playing with the band because he is enjoying it so much. Parts within the intro showcase exactly how Nick likes to move the music around. Dorongo is the next track, and is your action layer woven within the song. The groove itself is tight enough for that kind of sequence. The synth effects keep the pulsating energy within, while providing some class A transitions and pockets. The orchestral parts almost transport you, and before you realise it, you’re in the middle of the stage again. Nick Marks is making this his playground, and we’re just watching him parkour all around. Next comes Paradiso, and is all kinds of genres truly. You’ll find parts of funk, R&B, hip-hop and of course the core of jazz fusion. As far as instruments go, Nick’s vision is commendable and the way he takes control of the arrangement is worth experiencing. The chorus that you hear in this song is addictive. Not only does Nick make a flawless transition to these catchy hooks, but leaves room for improvisation as well. You don’t feel like leaving this song, but let’s say you do-you have a treat waiting. The next single is called Ride the Dragon. Sounds like something Larnell Lewis and the Ghost Notes would put together. It is an exciting, active song with a lot happening in terms of arrangement layers. The sax solo is a highlight, and how you unravel in this origami art is what you’ll remember forever. It marks the end of an explosive EP, a story you feel lucky to have witnessed. Nick Marks has taken you into a parallel universe, and you can enjoy your stay there any time. He is a brilliant composer and musician, and this kind of EP would be great in American Hustle (2013). With the exciting shift in tones and thrilling transitions, you can enjoy Nick’s composition with an undeniable passion. Listen to Between Gigs if you want to hear the passion going. Make sure you follow him for more music like this!
Sylvan Tirelle - Omni-Gatherum
The most recent sonic venture by Sylvan Tirelle, Omni-Gatherum, emanates a multifaceted symphony that entwines the experimental nuances of jazz and the gritty essence of alternative rock, interlaced with delicate folk accents. Throughout the album's 41-minute runtime, Tirelle deftly navigates an eclectic fusion, crafting a sound that tantalizes the senses with its unapologetic dynamism and resolute artistry. The careful amalgamation of various influences within this auditory mosaic renders a sonorous tapestry that resonates with both the indie music scene's avid aficionados and the uninitiated ear seeking a novel auditory pilgrimage. The album commences with "Scrumbles," an invigorating overture that sets the stage for the auditory odyssey to follow. Within the meticulously crafted stereo field, defined clean tones coalesce with an array of subtly layered, panned percussive elements, creating an immersive sonic experience that traverses through moments of fervent crescendos and serene interludes. As the album progresses, tracks like "Soft Sauce" and "pp500" emerge as prime examples of Tirelle's mastery, seamlessly weaving intricate folk-tinged melodies with a pulsating rhythmic backbone that ignites an unmistakable electric fervor. A perfect fit for Noir visual pieces The melodic sanctuary of "Smuk Skat" delicately unfurls, offering respite within its steady embrace, while "Hammer Heart" propels the listener into a high-octane auditory landscape reminiscent of a climactic action sequence, befitting contemporary noir films. The enigmatic allure of "Squidgeman" and "Jestic Iskrem" coalesce harmoniously, resonating with an intoxicating synergy that mirrors the complementary duality akin to wine and cheese. The album's denouement, "Rainy Day Rat," serves as a cathartic finale, as Tirelle orchestrates a breathtaking denouement, leaving the audience awash with a profound sense of sonic fulfillment. In the realm of contemporary noir, the resonant echoes of Omni-Gatherum find kinship with the atmospheres of "Nightcrawler" and "Drive," seamlessly blending into the enigmatic aura of these cinematic ventures with its pulsating rhythms and enigmatic textures. Tirelle's opus effortlessly navigates the labyrinth of musical genres, offering a sonic pilgrimage that resonates with the discerning ear and the casual listener alike, emblematic of the multifaceted spirit of the indie music scene. As the final notes of the album fade into the ether, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Tirelle's musical journey, eagerly awaiting the forthcoming manifestations of his boundless creativity and unwavering artistry. In conclusion, with Omni-Gatherum, Sylvan Tirelle has cemented his status as a virtuoso of sound, poised to captivate and mesmerize audiences with each successive endeavor that graces his illustrious roster.
Moto Perpetuo-Irish Lullaby
The melodies visited by Moto Perpetuo are timeless, for a reason. This is a collective that believes in making music that speaks from the heart, to the heart. Their album called Untitled which was released last year, is an auditory experience of a lifetime. Blending genres and movements, it has the rich drama you would expect from a band like this. This one is a single from the album, Irish Lullaby. Talk about defying expectations with just your melody. Like René Magritte tricked the whole world in a facet of surrealism, your mind considered a certain melody when Irish Lullaby was mentioned. Moto Perpetuo open the single with rich, detailed piano parts. As the groove rests in, the strings and guitar come in, creating a rich tapestry. I loved paying attention to the bass as well, a very ignored instrument when it comes to compositions like this. However, it helps aid the melody to become this multidimensional wormhole. Melodies share the energy off of each other, becoming a lounge single in some parts. It is an exciting number that will take you through a spectrum of genres. Jazz improvisations steal you away from the scene only to help you settle on velvet again. As a single, it is a unique number that shows you that diversity thrives in music when done right. The 10 track album is something every music lover should visit for the sake of music alone. The album Clave Surprise is another that will take you on a voyage like no other. The mystery movie Death on the Nile (2022) adapted from the Christie classic would be perfect for this song. Listen to Moto Perpetuo above and follow them for more like this!
Fugu Quintet-Interweavement
Fugu Quintet access a special chamber in your brain with their instrumental jazz. The five-piece band has some soulful compositions out, especially from their album Interweavement from 2021. It is something to listen to, for they are just teasing what will be out this year. Let’s dive into what makes this album power a psychedelic levitation. All the instrumentals meditate on a certain pocket of sound. Yet, none of them are magnetically attached, at any point. Interweavement takes you through the complex thread of emotions and thoughts humans might experience. The opening of the album starts with Firefly, that glistens with some keys. As we descend on the softly composed single, Fugu Quintet has a chemistry that has to be admired. The talented musicians leave enough space in silence to appreciate their melodic compositions. Instrumental jazz genius Longer, more deliberate thought levers are cranked in No One Had Come. It is an effective way of dissipating different layers of sound, creating more of an atmospheric cloud to absorb the elements that remain. It is a mysterious tone, especially taking a lot of time to spread out the aspects thin. The saxophone leads in telling a story of quiet conscience. Like a mystery movie, we are dawning into the real intentions of the protagonist, and it has been parlayed extremely well into the emotive song. Continuing the reverie is the song Worry. This is something that has the floating fingers of Pat Metheny, but also has a rock interlace with distortion spiked guitars. You can explore the tones of the melodies that interact with you, making something truly gorgeous and entertaining on several levels. Worry is one of the most interesting songs on the album, due to the contrast of emotions in each of the melody lines. Kings of the groove Fugu Quintet don’t want to waste anyone’s time. They are creating an album with music, not interludes with lead symphonies recorded in between. Duck of War is a playful groove, especially leading to more of a funky line. The play between the sax and guitar is exciting and intriguing, making for a dramatic, multi-faceted instrumental pocket. The penultimate treat comes in with Where Flamingos Fly. It is a tepid temperature that slowly heats, while letting out frigid clouds of melodrama. The song completely takes over your sense of being, while experimenting with textures that only expert ambient artists delve into. This album is a class example of how a band finding their own way can forge a staircase to a higher plane. In performing through these layers, Fugu Quintet are prepared to make the world experience a new kind of indie jazz. The brilliant movie The Falcon and the Snowman (1985) would be a perfect bed to test out instrumental genius like this. Follow Fugu Quintet for more and listen to their album above!
Q3-Water Speckled Midnight
If you need an exquisite drama sequence to explore, Q3 are the collective for you. With their soothing jazz, they bring some amazing layers with their sounds and tones. Not only is it the contemporary expression you have been wanting, but the foremost voice of melodic conversation in your head. This one is called Water Speckled Midnight. Opening with Through the Clouds, we get crisp clairvoyance of the sax, bass, drums and piano in one track. It is understanding the chemistry of these players, which makes it so spectacular and rewarding. The easygoing groove will keep you relaxed, yet the transitions move your heels to the click. Kevin Flanagan, Tiago Coimbra and drummers-Steve Hynes, Derek Scurll and Oscar Reynolds enjoy the soundscape they create. The unique backgrounds of the players add to the charisma of the song, something that cannot be predicted. Taking inspiration from several genres, they seamlessly stitch it into the ever-wavering fabric of jazz. The result is a magical aural experience, something that makes itself through the walls of the room. By the time you reach the treat that is Odyssey, your heartbeat matches the tempo. The preparation is worth the story, for Q3 make this a love affair that you want to have secrets about. Jazz explorations As the layers build, each player and the respective instrument enjoy the warm glow of the spotlight. The exciting prayer is guessing what the texture of the next song will be. Jazz, bossa nova, slow, coffee, fusion or classic? It can go any way when you have a talented bunch of virtuosos in a rendezvous of this quality. The serenade of Emerald Eyes is an exploration of character, while having no words shared. True music scintillates with the moments it can create within itself. Longer songs like Nomads tantalise you with hooks, yet keep it fresh enough to have never heard a jam like it before. Q3 delivers music like it is on the block, on the fly, while having the time of their life. This is feeding the groove, experiencing it, owning it and living it. No doubt the pulse they make with this is replicated in every listener’s heart. The pillow soft consciousness of Nocturne comes next, while telling you what more is to come. The title track is one of the most rewarding pockets of time signatures I have experienced, I thoroughly enjoyed the feel that Q3 went for. As they create this amazing environment with their symphonies, I sincerely thank the band for upholding the art in this form. Miraculous. This album would be a perfect fit in the movie Good Night, and Good Luck (2005). You can check out more unique jazz from the band on their Spotify, and follow them on their socials for more. The album is linked above, make sure you give the band the love they deserve!
Ari Joshua-One Dub
If Ari Joshua is exploring a song, it has all the right ingredients. The prolific musician from Seattle has had a rich background and tons of experience in music. When he’s not jamming and making music, he’s touring. He must have taken a breather for this catchy one, for this is called One Dub. The laid back groove is enough for me to grab my iced coffee. Ari Joshua and his electric crew bring a beat and melody that is as sophisticated as it is playful. There is a wave of sound that comes as the jam proceeds, and each cog plays its part. When I say play, I accent on the space that is left to experiment and make something memorable. The Rastafarian bassline and synth keys will keep your head bopping all through the song. This is a savant of melody, someone who can study space and carve some memorable symphonies out of it. The song is special, refreshing and extremely positive. All without any lyrics coming in the way and keep the flow. Though his hits are SoulMine and Rare Groove, there is a tangent in Ari Joshua and his compositions that will keep you entertained. This is the kind of feel you seek, and here you have it. This would fit perfectly in the movie Bad Boys for Life (2020). The scenes with the scenic shots would be especially perfect with this song. Check out the song above and follow him for more information on tours and new tracks! Ari Joshua on Tour Upcoming Tour Dates The Suncatchers featuring Joe Doria & Ehssan Karimi May 22 - Seamonster Lounge - Seattle, Wa, Interview May 23 - Helping Friendly Podcast with RJ Bee and Hosts - Osiris Ari Joshua Band May 31 - Nectars - Burlington, VT Kris Yunker, Ari Joshua, Ben Atkind Trio dates June 5th The Stone Church - Bratelboro, VT June 7th Art Walk - Brattleboro, VT June 9th - NYC Venue TBA Check www.arijoshua.com for more dates
Attack the Sound - Fadiya
"Fadiya," the latest single by Chicago-based group Attack the Sound, effortlessly showcases their mastery of blending genres. Drawing inspiration from experimental jazz and RnB, the track unfolds like a sonic narrative, weaving together lush textures and a palpable sense of longing. The vivid dynamic range is immediately evident, with saxophone solos that drip sensuality and overdriven guitar tones that are both rich and crisp. Each element feels intentional, from the subtle compression on the drum and bass that tightens the groove to the carefully crafted stereo field that immerses the listener in a melancholic dreamscape. Vocally, "Fadiya" resonates with a lost and contemplative vibe. The lyrics echo themes of disconnection and yearning, underscored by harmonies that are as delicate as they are haunting. The song has a cinematic quality that would feel perfectly at home in biographical films like Ray or Love & Mercy, which delve into personal struggles and the idea of home as both a refuge and a point of conflict. The instrumental arrangement is a standout. The sultry saxophone solos add a layer of intimacy, while the restrained, overdriven guitar provides a gritty counterpoint. This balance of polish and raw emotion places Attack the Sound firmly within the indie music scene, where they continue to carve their niche as pioneers of the Chi-pop sound. Attack the Sound’s evolution as a band reflects their roots in Chicago’s rich musical tapestry. Led by Army veteran and Chicago Fireman Davo Sounds, the group has earned accolades for their dynamic live performances and genre-blending approach. With "Fadiya," they deliver a track that not only highlights their technical prowess but also their ability to evoke deep emotional resonance.
Gianfranco GFN - My Sunday Morning
If music could pour you a cup of coffee, fluff your pillows, and slide open the curtains to let in a golden wash of morning light, it would sound exactly like Gianfranco GFN's My Sunday Morning. The musician builds a whole mood, a sun-dappled groove fest that drapes itself around you like a well-worn, impossibly cozy sweater. From the first twang of guitar to the intricate percussion, the track is an invitation to breathe deep, stretch out, and revel in the unhurried beauty of doing absolutely nothing. The vocals are pure charm. They float and weave, playful harmonies winking like early-morning sunbeams through sleepy eyelashes. There’s a dreamy looseness to it all, a kind of sonic breath that makes you want to sway barefoot in the kitchen, humming along as the scent of fresh coffee curls through the air. But don’t mistake My Sunday Morning for background music—it’s the kind of song that sneaks up on you, embedding itself in your bones and making you nostalgic for a moment you haven’t even lived yet. And beneath all that easy-breezy, groove-infused joy is a quiet kind of power. In a world that’s always shouting, Gianfranco GFN whispers something radical: slow down. Enjoy this. Let go. Because choosing joy—especially when life wants to hustle you into exhaustion—isn’t just an indulgence. It’s an act of defiance. Drop this into a film like Before Sunrise, and suddenly, every street corner feels poetic, every passing glance loaded with possibility. Gianfranco GFN's My Sunday Morning doesn’t just set the scene—it is the scene.