Peter Uher-New Reality
There are genre fusions. There are intra-genre relations that give birth to exciting sounds that are rare to hear. The third category is chasing fumes of otherworldly delight. That is where this artist, Peter Uher comes in. His latest album is a compilation of his work through the years, a debut that tries to create his own envelope with the fragments of sound. This is a New Reality. For a short track, Mirror Door is your transcendental portal to Peter’s dimensions. Mere mortals cannot walk through this door, so Peter holds it open for you. It is a confluence of jazz, rock and classical strokes you witness, in a all out medley of leviathan proportions. Exciting, raw and real-you can hear every note as it was composed, as the other instruments dance around the protagonist. To create a flow like a brooks’ babble, Peter chooses and uses a traditional foundation. The gentle whisper of the flute & soft sax guide the track, Look Ahead. His guitar comes in smoothly, in due course of time, carrying with it the magnanimous effect of a leading dancer. The drama, penchant for frills and flourishes is still there, albeit in a new tempo and style. Time seems to melt away by the time the solo acoustic moments create ambient shells for the guitar to caress. What will be tomorrow is the track that now includes parts of ambient progressive. Hopefully you catch the subtle changes listening on your headphones, because they are a psychedelic introduction to the track. The beats have a dissonant echo while the guitar gets by on its minimal pizazz, creating a layered approach to ambience. Building to the name The title track is a jazz fusion number, with an addictive progression by the bass and the guitar. The drums shine as well, as the silent spine of the song, ever adapting. The tone changes are incredible, truly a sound to behold. The shift in the song is not only unexpected, but an exciting approach to song composition, with different instruments taking the lead every time. A prog-jazz number if you will, by the time the mid-point rolls around, we’re in a Silencers song. The solo jam at the end has to be heard several times to be believed. Vivien’s Dream is a wonderful short track, with the saxophone taking the cake. The guitar gently dances around this, with cat’s feet as it takes no attention away. A track that just melts through the fog and rests in your head for a while. With an R&B approach, Recently is Peter Uher’s sound palette cleanser. It makes the required impact, the strings echoing through to create a beautiful loop that melts through the framework of the song. Second by second, the track bleeds through. Riverse is what you would expect to hear, a song that sounds just as intense and unbelievable in reverse. The magic of jazz being the unpredictable nature of it. All the instruments dance with their destiny in mind, in control of the notes almost. It is a long, progressive track with plenty of elements to unpack. Peter Uher closes the album with a simple Epilogue that seems to weld fragments of his favourite sounds together, with another enchanting tone on his guitar. If this is his debut, I am excited to hear what a young artist like this has in store for us. He has not only stitched a continuous tapestry of fabric for experimentation, but composed it to a level that everyone can appreciate this art. This is a new reality we would choose to explore. When you're in the dissonance of movies like The Girl in the Dragon Tattoo or in a Jack Reacher like thriller film, you better bet this sound will punctuate the gritty scenes!
Quinn Sternberg-Cicada Songs
Within the million or so genres that exist, there are a special few that are beyond my understanding. Purely refined, versatile and mathematically precise, jazz is one of them. Quinn Sternberg is not your ordinary jazz musician, he's been on his own odd time roll since 2016. After his release Weird World, he has explored the extents of his creative boundaries passionately. 6 years later, this is his latest album, Cicada Songs. The twisted tempos of jazz The opening track is June, something that is a soft cruise down this road of jazz Quinn so easily navigates. The album having sharp turns to straight drives, there was a desire to know what this album transpired from. "I think the overall sound of this record is based on a combination of bands that I was really interested in at the time, but each individual song has its own narrative that I tried to funnel those sounds into." , Quinn says. It is clear from the sound in June and the immediate shift of tone, tempo, rhythm and heart in the title track that he is purely out to enjoy himself. "Ron Miles, Marquis Hill, and Kurt Rosenwinkel were definitely high on my listening list, and I wanted to combine what I was hearing in their music with my own aesthetics to animate the 8 different scenes." says Quinn, about his thematic travel. Using this dramatic effect of splitting the tone and sounds, each track can extract the characteristic of these artists Quinn admires, with his signature delivery. The funky core of Cicada Songs is a massive juxtaposition from June or the cinematic flow of Remember the Birds. A new approach and style Quinn says "A lot of the diversity in soundscapes on this album comes from the instrumentation. This was the first album I've done with both a guitarist and a keyboardist and the first one where I've played both electric and acoustic bass." This is heard in the tonal shift between the tracks, where each controls the motor movement of the song itself. Take the relaxed flow of Porch Cat for example, it has notational character very different of that to the complex clockwork of What A Day. "Being able to switch between the two basses and various combinations of guitar, Rhodes, and piano gave us a lot of different textures to work with. It also helps to have a super creative and versatile drummer like Peter Varnado to give the songs a unique contour." It has vastly amplified the tempo that is mirrored and replicated on all the instruments, a jam harnessing cosmic energy. Weird World is now miles away from Quinn's current sound and mind. "I think as an instrumentalist and as a writer I'm more inclined to use the bass as a compositional tool than to try to do "cool things" on the bass. The first couple albums have a bunch of bass solos because I thought that was a necessary thing, but this time around I just wanted to play bass lines that supported the music. I'm trying to play solid parts now even in improvised contexts where the part can change rapidly." The approach and process have changed massively, which is where we see the maturity in sound from Quinn Sternberg. On composing and working When asked about the most complex song on the album that would have felt easy, Quinn said Remember the Birds. "Sometimes as a composer I spend so much time writing a piece and gaining an intimate understanding of it that by the time I bring it to the band I've forgotten that the rhythms and chords I wrote are super weird. This was a tune that I wasn't really worried about initially, but it's proved to be quite challenging to play live." I would suppose that would be the case for all of jazz, but hearing this track reminds you how masterful the genre is to understand and appreciate. Sinusoidal also asked what other plans Quinn Sternberg has with regards to collaborations and parallel projects. "I have a handful of projects that I've worked on recently as a sideman that I'm excited to see come to fruition. A couple of rock groups I play in, Mighty Brother and Ari Carter Trio, recorded albums the same month as the cicada session that will both be out before too long." "On the BAM/Jazz side of things I recorded a couple albums with the Doug Stone/Marcelo Pinto Quartet and Kirk Duplantis that I'm stoked for. There are a ton of amazing players that I'd love to collab with, but I'll be thrilled if I can keep working with the guys I'm currently playing with." You could hear the drama of Quinn Sternberg's playing with Cicada Songs while watching slow-burn drama unfold on Birdman or La La Land among others. So watch chaotic scenes unfold with us!
Savoy Ellis - Don't Break My Heart/The One
Savoy Ellis' latest single, "Don't Break My Heart/The One," is a testament to his talent as both a producer and songwriter. The song is crafted with care and intricacy which seamlessly blends genres to create a sound that is both modern and timeless. The track opens with a gentle bassline that sets the tone for the heartfelt lyrics that follow. The song by Savoy Ellis is theoretically adept with layers and layers of complimenting harmonies and intricate sections seamlessly blending into each other. The artist's use of altered and borrowed chords is a clear indication of his jazz background. And this comes through beautifully in this latest soundtrack from his roster. Savoy Ellis is the new generation's answer to experimental jazz Savoy's ability to blend genres is evident in the production, which features a polished R&B sound with a subtle jazz influence. The instrumentation is kept simple. With a focus on atmospheric pads and synths, and a smooth beat that allows the emotion of the song to shine through. This reprised version of the song Don't Break My Heart from his 2021 release, The Love Album, is a welcome addition to the artist's unique discography. The track would be well-suited to a romantic drama or a coming-of-age film. Particularly, one that deals with themes of love and heartbreak. It could also be used in a TV series that explores complex relationships and the journey towards finding oneself. Good examples would be Juno and Call Me by Your Name. In conclusion, "Don't Break My Heart/The One" is a soulful and emotional track that showcases Savoy Ellis' talent as a producer and songwriter. It is a love song you can dance to. With its powerful lyrics and heartfelt melody, the song is sure to resonate with listeners of all ages. Savoy's expertise in music production is felt throughout the track, making it a must-listen for fans of nu-jazz, R&B and soul music.
Dee & d'Z - E.N.E.R.GY
The latest track by Dee & d'Z, "E.N.E.R.GY" is a perfect example of how the duo likes to create energetic music with positive lyrics. The song draws inspiration from free-tempo bebop jazz with some Texan influences. The track is peppy and upbeat and has a carefully crafted soundscape complete with a steady bass groove and immersive vocal harmonies. The horns in the backdrop add some extra pizzazz, creating a dynamic atmosphere that pulls you in and keeps you engaged from start to finish. The mix of the track is expertly done, with each element standing out just enough to make its presence felt without overpowering the rest of the music. The vocals are crystal clear and well-balanced with the instrumentation, while the drums provide a solid foundation that keeps everything moving forward. The bass groove is infectious and will have you tapping your foot and nodding your head in no time. Overall, "E.N.E.R.GY" is a great addition to Dee & d'Z's catalog. The track has a classic feel that will appeal to fans of traditional jazz, but it also has a modern sensibility that makes it accessible to a wider audience. It's the kind of song that would be right at home in a feel-good movie or TV show, with its upbeat tempo and positive message. Comic elements from Dee & d'Z as they keep "Running in Circles" The peppy tempo and positive vibes of "E.N.E.R.GY" make it a perfect fit for the indie hit "Little Miss Sunshine", where the track would perfectly complement the film's quirky characters and heartwarming storyline. Another movie that could feature this track is the action-comedy "Spy", starring Melissa McCarthy. The energetic beat of the track would match perfectly with the high-octane action and comedic moments in the film. Dee & d'Z, an Austrian-Dutch music duo formed in 2020, has quickly made a name for themselves with their positive Nu-Jazz sound. The duo's origin story is a testament to the power of collaboration, as Austrian singer/songwriter Bernadette Dengler (Dee) and Dutch drummer/composer/producer Hans-Peter de Zeeuw (d'Z) hit it off immediately when they met to write their first song together. Since then, they have continued to create music. Inspirations for their unique sound include Gregory Porter, Jamie Cullum, and Steely Dan. In conclusion, "E.N.E.R.GY" is a great example of the positive energy and musical talent that Dee & d'Z bring to their music. The carefully crafted sonic palette, expertly mixed stereo field with real instrumentation, is a joy to listen to and will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. The duo's latest track makes an exciting addition to their already impressive discography and makes them an act to watch out for in the indie music scene.
Jacques Bailhé - SHIVA IN FLAGRANTE
The latest album by Jacques Bailhé, "SHIVA IN FLAGRANTE," is a captivating journey through experimental progressive jazz that draws influences from post-modern, Latin, and waltz music. Clocking in at 39 minutes with 10 strategically ordered songs, this album showcases Bailhé's remarkable ability to create shifting moods and a free-flowing musical experience. From the very first notes, it becomes apparent that "SHIVA IN FLAGRANTE" breaks the mould of traditional jazz albums. Bailhé's innovative mix employs various filters and hard panning techniques, adding an extra layer of experimentation to the music. The result is a rich sonic landscape that demands attention and rewards the listener with a plethora of sonic surprises. Furthermore, the album's strength lies in its strategic ordering of songs. Each track is meticulously placed to ensure maximum impact, with a deliberate progression of moods and emotions. As the album unfolds, listeners are taken on a sonic journey that explores the spectrum of human experience. From the dark and contemplative to the lively and peppy, Bailhé's careful curation of the transients in the tracklist enhances the overall impact of the album. Also, Bailhé's nu-jazz approach to songwriting is evident throughout the album. His compositions blend the progressive nature of the music with post-modern jazz sensibilities, resulting in a unique and refreshing sound. The tonal detailing is top notch. Additionally, Bailhé meticulously crafts the harmonic layers, creating a mesmerizing interplay of melodies and rhythms that engage the senses and demand repeated listening. Jacques Bailhé and instrumental ecstasy Notable tracks on the album include the experimental "Backside," which pushes the boundaries of nu-jazz with its unconventional structure and daring sonic explorations. "Gimme That" stands out with its funky and bold energy, featuring impressive horn arrangements and a standout bass solo at the 1-minute 15-second mark. "Shiva Steps Out" is a dark and adventurous number that showcases Bailhé's ability to create contrasting musical atmospheres, making it a standout moment on the album. "7th Sense," further demonstrates Bailhé's prowess in combining progressive rock elements with his jazz foundation. These tracks offer intricate instrumental performances and dynamic shifts that highlight the album's versatility and musical depth. Surprisingly enough, the title track ventures into experimental territory with the usage of off-beat instruments like the Tabla. Other must-listen numbers are, "The Facts of Creation," "Smoke," and "All Lanes Merge Here." An exploratory approach to music With his diverse background as a multi-instrumentalist and his exploratory approach to music, Jacques Bailhé brings a unique perspective to "SHIVA IN FLAGRANTE." The album's free-flowing nature is a direct result of Bailhé's free-tempo songwriting, allowing the music to breathe and evolve naturally. Furthermore, this approach lends an organic quality to the album, creating a captivating listening experience that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. In conclusion, "SHIVA IN FLAGRANTE" is a remarkable achievement for Jacques Bailhé. His ability to blend experimental jazz with post-modern influences and the essence of the prog showcases his exceptional talent as a musician and composer. It is an album that would find a perfect fit in a noir movie like "Midnight in the Shadows" or as a captivating addition to the soundtrack of an '80s popular mystery detective TV show, such as "Murder on the Boulevard." Jacques Bailhé's artistic evolution continues to push the boundaries of nu-jazz. Just like the deity the name "SHIVA IN FLAGRANTE" is coined after, the record stands as a manifestation of chaos.
Arson Whales - Galactopus
Arson Whales, the enigmatic four-piece band from California, defies categorization once again with their latest release, "Galactopus." Clocking in at 37 minutes with 11 captivating tracks, this album is a cosmic exploration that transcends genres and immerses listeners in a sonic experience like no other. Notable tracks like "Monkey Jar," "Gray Dorian," "Spirit in a Wormhole," and "Sonic Eclipse" showcase Arson Whales' mastery of blending Electronica and Synthwave with pop sensibilities, resulting in a truly unique variation of electro-pop. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Depeche Mode, Daft Punk, and Rammstein, their sound pulsates with infectious energy and melodic intricacies. However, beneath the surface, discerning ears will discover subtle hints of bebop jazz that add a surprising layer of sophistication to the album. Unveiling the Sonic Cosmos of Arson Whales The mix of the tracks on "Galactopus" is nothing short of remarkable. Each instrument and element occupies its space perfectly, creating a rich and immersive sonic landscape. The synths soar with celestial allure, interlacing with pulsating basslines and crisp percussion to create a rhythmic tapestry that keeps the listener engaged throughout the album. The vocals, delivered with passion and precision, effortlessly ride the waves of the music, seamlessly blending with the electronic melodies and adding depth to the overall sound. "Galactopus" would find a natural home in the soundtracks of two captivating movies and a TV show. Firstly, the album's fusion of retro-futuristic vibes and infectious energy would perfectly complement the visual splendour and high-stakes action of a sci-fi blockbuster like "Hunger Games." Arson Whales' blend of genres and captivating hooks would enhance the film's futuristic atmosphere, propelling the audience into an otherworldly journey. Secondly, the album's dynamic and pulsating tracks would be a fantastic fit for the stylish heist film "The Italian Job." The synergy between the album's electrifying beats and the film's adrenaline-fueled car chases and intricate choreography would create a truly immersive cinematic experience, where every twist and turn is accompanied by Arson Whales' infectious soundscapes. Our favourite song from the playlist is the upbeat and peppy 4th track "Reverse The Rule." Electrifying Voyage into Nu-Jazz Electro-Pop Arson Whales, a band shrouded in mystery and intrigue, has been steadily gaining recognition for their boundary-pushing approach to music. Hailing from Sacramento, their sonic explorations have captivated audiences and critics alike. With "Galactopus," they have further solidified their reputation as innovators in the realm of nu-jazz and electro-pop. Their diverse backgrounds and influences converge harmoniously in their music, resulting in a sound that is simultaneously familiar and refreshingly new. The band's members, namely Linda Brancato, Joe Kimberlin, Brad Penner, and Stephen Lynn have a reputation for pushing artistic boundaries and challenging conventions. This audacious spirit shines through in every note of their new record making it a must-listen for any music enthusiast yearning for a truly unique electro-pop experience. In conclusion, "Galactopus" is an electrifying and mesmerizing album that showcases Arson Whales' unrivaled ability to merge Electronica, Synthwave, and pop into a captivating and innovative soundscape. With its impeccable mix, it takes listeners on a cosmic voyage through genres, leaving them craving more of the band's genre-defying brilliance. Arson Whales' latest release cements their status as a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music.
LearningToDive - Rise
In the ever-evolving world of music, artists like LearningToDive continue to push boundaries and explore unique soundscapes. Their latest single, "Rise," is a captivating and infectious blend of experimental nu-jazz and ambient pop, showcasing the artist's talent for crafting innovative and thought-provoking music. From the very first note, "Rise" captivates listeners with its sick and infectious bass groove. The deliberate, flat delivery of the vocals perfectly complements the unconventional nature of the song, adding an intriguing layer to its overall appeal. LearningToDive skillfully creates a sonic landscape that seamlessly blends genres, incorporating elements of nu-jazz, dream pop, and post-grunge with a touch of shoegaze. The mix of "Rise" is impeccable, allowing each instrument to shine while still maintaining a cohesive and tight groove. The drumming stands out, showcasing the drummer's dynamic range and exceptional control. The drums provide a solid foundation for the song, driving it forward with precision and adding a rhythmic complexity that enhances the overall experience. "Rise : An Eclectic Groove-Infused Anthem by LearningToDive" The song starts off with a sick infectious bass groove. With lyrics like "Rise above it all," the artist invites listeners to transcend their challenges and find strength in the face of adversity. The euphoric chorus hooks create a sense of empowerment, inspiring a feeling of resilience and determination. "Rise" would find a natural home in a variety of playlists, particularly within the realms of ambient pop and post-grunge. Its unique blend of genres and infectious groove make it a standout track that would add depth and character to any curated collection. The electronic elements further enhance the song, adding intricate detailing to the stereo field and captivating the listener's attention. This track would particularly resonate in two contrasting movie settings. In a mystery movie like Echoes of Obscurity, the track would fit well due to its darker tonality and atmospheric qualities, serving as an intriguing backdrop to suspenseful scenes. Additionally, its energetic and infectious nature could also find a place in an uplifting coming-of-age film like Uncharted Horizons, providing an anthemic soundtrack to moments of self-discovery and personal triumph. LearningToDive is a revolution. Bravo Bonez's ability to blend genres seamlessly and create immersive soundscapes sets them apart from the crowd. With the artist's upcoming EP on the horizon, in "Rise," they have once again delivered a track that showcases their artistic vision and consolidates their place in the trending global indie music scene.
Plantoid - Dog's Life
Plantoid, the UK prog act's latest release, "Dog's Life," is a mesmerizing journey into the uncharted territories of experimental music. This audacious quartet from Brighton fearlessly blends the kaleidoscopic realms of psychedelia and jazz fusion, giving birth to a track that transcends genre boundaries and defies expectations. "Dog's Life" opens its doors to an enigmatic sonic universe, where the boundaries between nu-jazz and prog rock are not just blurred but intricately woven together. The vocals, reminiscent of the emotive cadence found in acts like Blackfield, form a harmonious marriage with the intricate instrumental landscape. The track’s emotive force is tangible, pulling the listener into its intricate tapestry. The mixing of the track is a masterstroke of creativity. The deliberate screeches of distortion that intermittently pierce through the composition add an otherworldly edge, creating an enticing contrast with the smoother elements. Furthermore, the VSTi synths act as ethereal threads that weave through the soundscape, enveloping the listener in an ambient sonic embrace. The tight bass groove acts as a sonic canopy, grounding the composition with a rhythmic pulse that is both hypnotic and commanding. Synaptic Odyssey: 'Dog's Life' Blends Jazz-Fusion Realms The true brilliance of "Dog's Life" lies in its meticulously crafted stereo field. The production expertise is evident in the way every element finds its specific place within the auditory canvas. This attention to detail creates an immersive experience where listeners can lose themselves in the sonic panorama that unfolds before them. In an alternate reality, "Dog's Life" could seamlessly find its home in the soundtracks of two iconic sci-fi movies: "Blade Runner 2049," where its atmospheric and avant-garde nature could mirror the film's futuristic aesthetic, and "Annihilation," with its surreal and mind-bending qualities resonating with the movie's enigmatic narrative. In conclusion, Plantoid has indeed carved a niche for themselves with "Dog's Life." Their audacious fusion of styles, coupled with their impeccable musicianship and production finesse, cements their presence as a formidable contender in the global indie music scene. This track is not just music; it's a cosmic experience.