A Quick Hat Tip First
Those following this series may have noticed I’ve been deep into UK-based jazz this year.
A lot of that has to do with a person named Josh who runs a company called Somewhere Soul. I follow Somewhere Soul on Instagram, and each week, Josh goes over his favorite new releases in jazz, soul, and R&B. He does a better job introducing me to new artists than Apple Music does, so he’s been my gateway to a lot of new music and the main reason behind my deep dive into jazz and soul this year. I highly recommend you click on the image and follow him.
This month, I’ve arranged the albums by the order in which they were added, with Chappell Roan joining my library on April 2nd and Ezra Collective coming onboard on April 30th.
The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess
By Chappell Roan
Released 2023
Chappell Roan’s ‘The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess’ is a pop revelation, blending modern romance with catchy beats. With tracks like ‘Casual,’ Roan navigates the complexities of relationships, juxtaposing tender melodies with bold, provocative lyrics. It’s a captivating journey through love’s highs and lows, where each song offers a glimpse into the artist’s soul.
Watermelancholia
By Brahja
Released 2022
Brahja’s ‘Watermeloncholia’ is a captivating follow-up to last month’s standout album, offering a modern twist on timeless jazz. The introduction of a vocal chorus adds a dynamic layer to the already mesmerizing blend of horns and melodies. It’s a sonic journey that begs for repeated listens, showcasing Brahja’s ability to innovate while staying true to the essence of their sound.
Heavenly
By Resavoir
Released 2023
Resavoir’s ‘Heavenly’ is a soulful instrumental gem that unfolds like a rich tapestry of sound. Initially mistaken for background ambiance, it reveals its true depth upon closer inspection. Each listen unveils new layers and intricacies, showcasing the meticulous production and dynamic variations that elevate it beyond mere background music. It’s an immersive journey that invites listeners to get lost in its enchanting melodies.
A LA SALA
By Kruangbin
Released 2024
Kruangbin’s ‘A LA SALA’ delivers another dose of their signature groove, showcasing the trio’s undeniable talent yet treading familiar ground. While each track is undeniably enjoyable, the album lacks the innovation to distinguish itself from their previous works. However, subtle nods like Sinatra’s ‘My Way’ in ‘A Love International’ add delightful twists to their established sound, ensuring a captivating listening experience for fans old and new.
After Sunrise
By Circles Around The Sun
& Mikaela Davis
Released 2024
Circles Around the Sun’s latest album showcases their lively sound, enhanced by the addition of harpist Mikaela Davis. While her ethereal melodies add intriguing new dimensions, they still can’t fully compensate for the void left by Neal Cassel’s Jerry-like guitar, whose absence looms heavily throughout. Despite the band’s undeniable talent, listeners keenly feel Cassel’s absence, yearning for his iconic sound to join in and complete the musical journey.
Only God Was Above Us
By Vampire Weekend
Released 2024
Vampire Weekend’s ‘Only God Was Above Us’ is a stellar addition this month, showcasing their signature sound that never fails to captivate. From infectious melodies to the lead singer’s captivating vocals, every element of the band shines. ‘Classical’ stands out with its dynamic breakdown, featuring a gripping duel between horn and piano before soaring back into the chorus. It’s a fantastic addition to their impressive oeuvre.
Live: Return of the Storyteller
By Todd Snider
Released 2022
On the closing tune to this legendary live set, Todd Snider sings, “I am open to the idea that my death may well defy all of my logic and imagination. I never know which road I am on, the here and now or the gone, the coming home or the running away. You gonna miss my laugh someday.”
As he reflects on his own passing, as well as the passing of friends like John Prine and Col. Bruce Hampton, Snider’s storytelling prowess transcends laughter, evoking tears of grief. Though he’s still with us, his musings remind us of the profound impact he leaves on listeners, foreshadowing the void his absence will inevitably bring.
The Devil You Know
By Todd Snider
Released 2006
I also added ‘The Devil You Know,’ to my library and it still hits hard nearly two decades after its release. Snider’s signature folk vibes, paired with electric guitar and simple drums, paint vivid tales of quirky characters. From small-time crooks to the infamous story of Phil Ochs and Bob Dylan, to frat tales involving George W. Bush, Snider captures the essence of each with his sharp lyrics. It’s a timeless piece that feels as relevant today as ever.
Getaway
By Kolonel Djafaar
Released 2024
Kolonel Djafaar’s “Getaway” offers a hypnotic journey through Ethio-Jazz with a Belgian twist. Packed with groove-heavy tunes that blend jazz, psychedelic vibes, and a hint of Afrobeat, this brass-led ensemble captivates with catchy hooks and a consistent tempo that guarantees head-nodding moments. It’s a vibrant celebration of rhythm that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in tradition. Perfect for jazz aficionados looking to groove to something a bit different.
First Home
By TC & The Groove Family
Released 2022
“First Home” by TC & The Groove Family is a dynamic exploration of Afro-groove with a funk twist. Featuring the versatile vocals of Pariss Elektra—ranging from soulful singing to sharp rapping—each track is distinct yet unified by the powerful, steady presence of horns and the undeniable mastery of each musician. This album offers a rich tapestry of sounds that keeps you engaged from start to finish, perfect for those who appreciate depth and diversity in their music.
Mood Swings
By Marcus King
Released 2024
Marcus King’s latest solo effort, his third, firmly cements his status in the southern rock and blues scene—even if he still feels like the new kid on the block. His sixth album overall, King continues to impress with his rich, soulful voice and masterful guitar work. Though more restrained in this collection, his guitar effortlessly finds its groove, complementing every track. King delivers yet again, improving his claim to being placed among the greats.
One Deep River
By Mark Knopfler
Released 2024
Mark Knopfler’s “One Deep River” is a masterclass in the art of understated elegance. The legendary guitarist has settled into a graceful mid-tempo groove that feels tailor-made for lazy Sunday afternoons. His voice has deepened over the years, adding a rich, textured layer to each song, while his guitar work remains as surprising and distinctive as ever. This latest album showcases Knopfler’s unique style and proves that his musical journey continues to evolve beautifully.
Love in London
By High Fade
Released 2023
High Fade’s “Live in London” album pulsates with the raw, infectious energy that this guitar-groovy trio is becoming known for. From busking on sidewalks a year ago to capturing the hearts of online followers, their sound became a polished paradox—tightly practiced yet wonderfully loose. While their vocals might not be everyone’s cup of tea, they’re sparse, leaving room for their instrumental prowess to shine. This album is a rhythmic invitation to tap your foot along to every beat.
The Sky Will Still Be There Tomorrow
By Charles Lloyd
Released 2024
Charles Lloyd’s “The Sky Will Still Be There Tomorrow” stands out as a traditional jazz gem amidst my recent Afro-beat heavy rotation. This 86-year-old jazz master has compiled 15 tracks that speak to every jazz aficionado. From the timeless piano melodies to Lloyd’s expressive saxophone and flute, complemented by robust drumming and the stand-up bass—each element is in perfect harmony. The album shines especially when the band leader joyfully exclaims during solos, capturing the essence of live jazz. It’s a beautifully orchestrated experience for any jazz lover.
The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology
By Taylor Swift
Released 2024
Taylor Swift’s surprise release, The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology, skyrocketed to unprecedented success upon its debut. Not only did it clinch the #1 spot on the Billboard Chart, tying Swift with Jay-Z for the most #1 albums by a solo artist, but it also took second place for the most #1s of all time, trailing only the Beatles. The double-album shattered streaming records, becoming the first on Spotify to exceed 300 million streams in a single day and the first to breach 1 billion streams in under a week. It also set the record for the biggest pop album launch on Apple Music by first-day streams. Additionally, it sold over 700,000 vinyl copies in its first week, surpassing Swift’s own previous record.
I genuinely enjoyed album. Tracks like “Down Bad,” “So Long London,” “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me,” and “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” stand out with their poignant lyrics and captivating melodies. “But Daddy I Love Him” is undeniably catchy, with a chorus that lingered in my mind for days. Despite the overwhelming volume of 31 new songs, which felt a bit excessive, Swift’s musical charm prevails. Will I add her next album to my library? Absolutely.
Echoes
By CAZAYOUX
Released 2024
“Echoes” by CAZAYOUX is a vibrant continuation of the nine-piece Austin band’s eclectic musical journey. Their latest offering mixes groove, funk, Afrobeat, and jazz into an energetic blend that feels like the party never ended after their last album. The band’s ability to fuse diverse sounds creates a dynamic, infectious rhythm that pulls you in and keeps you moving. It’s an album that captures the spirit of a never-ending celebration, perfect for any gathering that aims to dance the night away.
Liberation
By Sly5thAve
Released 2024
“Liberation” by Sly5thAve showcases some strong points with its vibrant horns and intricate percussion, but it falls short in other areas. The drums, overly reminiscent of a sound machine, detract from the organic feel of the album, while the strings and guitar bring an unwelcome vibe of sped-up mall jazz. Despite multiple listens in hopes of a grower, the album never quite hit the mark. It’s an effort that might be fleeting in my library if it continues to struggle to resonate.
Proof of Life
By Joy Oladokun
Released 2022
Joy Oladokun’s “Proof of Life” is a compelling addition to the pop-folk landscape, capturing my attention through an impassioned Instagram live performance. The album resonates with sincerity and emotional depth, reminiscent of Tracy Chapman, especially in their subtly raspy vocal qualities. The comparison is a tough hurdle, however; Chapman’s unique legacy sets a high benchmark that isn’t quite met here. Despite this, Oladokun’s earnest expression and heartfelt delivery make “Proof of Life” a noteworthy listen.
Luke Stewart Exposure Quintet
By Luke Stewart Exposure Quintet
Released 2020
After tracing a mesmerizing baseline on a Brahja album back to Luke Stewart, I delved into his own work and discovered the “Luke Stewart Exposure Quintet.” This four-track LP consists of expansive jazz compositions, each lasting over ten minutes, and some even surpassing twenty. More conventional than Brahja yet undeniably innovative, this quintet delivers stunning performances with classic melodic lines interspersed with bold, boundary-pushing solos. It’s an album that demands attention, steadfastly resisting relegation to mere background music. Every note and pause is crafted to captivate, making it a standout for any jazz aficionado seeking depth and engagement in their listening experience.
Protect Your Light
By Irreversible Entanglements
Released 2023
“Protect Your Light” by Irreversible Entanglements, discovered through my pursuit of Luke Stewart’s music, introduces a profound experience where free-jazz meets fervent activism. The quintet is elevated by Moor Mother’s commanding presence as both vocalist and visionary. A poet and activist from Philadelphia, Moor Mother imbues the album with the essence of Black Quantum Futurism, an innovative theoretical framework she champions. Her approach integrates art, writing, music, and performance to reshape reality. With its intense, purpose-driven sound, “Protect Your Light” not only captivates but also enriches, urging continued exploration into Moor Mother’s compelling artistry.
Dark Matter
By Pearl Jam
Released 2024
“Dark Matter” adds yet another chapter to this storied band’s extensive catalog, but it doesn’t venture far from the familiar. While the opening track, “Scared of Fear,” offers a robust start, the rest of the album settles into the quintessential Pearl Jam mold that fans have come to expect. Indeed, the band’s expertise is undeniable—they’ve mastered their art. However, this latest release could easily blend into their late ’90s work, showing little evolution in their sound. For longtime listeners, it’s a comfortable but unremarkable journey through well-trodden territory.
We Be All Africans
By The Pyramids
Released 2016
If the vibrant fusion of Fela Kuti, the cosmic explorations of Sun-Ra and his Arkestra, or the spiritual jazz of Alice Coltrane resonate with you, then “We Be All Africans” by Idris Ackamoor & The Pyramids is a must-listen. Formed in the early 1970s, this group initially blended pan-African rhythms with psychedelic modal jazz, leaving a brief but impactful legacy with three albums. Their 2016 reunion album revives their unique sound, melding Afro-jazz with funk into a compelling, rhythmic masterpiece. It’s a standout discovery, beautifully weaving together rich musical traditions into an album that feels both timeless and freshly innovative.
Birth/Speed/Merging
By The Pyramids
Released 1976
After being captivated by “We Be All Africans,” I delved into The Pyramids’ 1976 release, “Birth/Speed/Merging,” to explore their musical roots. This earlier work lacks the funk elements that later defined their sound but is rich with the African spirituality that resonates with Alice Coltrane’s transcendent compositions. “Birth/Speed/Merging” showcases a band using the studio as an experimental playground, a stark contrast to the live, cohesive feel of “We Be All Africans,” which seems as though it could have been recorded in a single, seamless take. This exploration into their formative years reveals a fascinating evolution in their approach to creating music.
Light Verse
By Iron & Wine
Released 2024
Few artists stir as much anticipation for me as Iron & Wine does. He ranks as my favorite male singer and stands tall among my top songwriters. The thrill lies in the unpredictability of his albums—will it feature the familiar quiet acoustics, or will he venture into richer, multi-instrumental complexities? His latest offering, “Light Verse,” answers this with its opening tune. About halfway through, a climactic surge followed by a dramatic descent in the strings eloquently conveys the album’s essence: You Never Know. This piece beautifully exemplifies how Iron & Wine continues to evolve, surprising and delighting with each release.
Blue Eclipse
By Blue Lab Beats
Released 2023
“Blue Eclipse” by Blue Lab Beats offers a fresh take on the UK jazz scene with its intriguing fusion of hip-hop, neo-soul, and jazz. While I appreciated the album, its heavy reliance on drum machines was a bit much for my taste, somewhat overshadowing the organic jazz elements I crave. However, the production quality deserves high praise—it’s crisp and immaculate, really showcasing the duo’s technical prowess. Despite finding the lyrical content a bit excessive, the overall sound quality of the album is undeniably impressive.
Ways
By Aneesa Strings
Released 2019
“Ways” by Anneesa Strings is a captivating blend of R&B and jazz that showcases her multifaceted talent as a bassist, vocalist, and composer. I stumbled upon this gem on Instagram, and her voice instantly enthralled me. Having started her recording career at the tender age of 13 and honing her craft with a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from Michigan State, Strings brings not just technical prowess but a deep, soulful essence to her music. This album isn’t just a display of academic musical pedigree; it’s a profound expression of her soul-stirring capabilities, making it a delightful discovery.
Gateway
By John Abercrombie, Dave Holland, & Jack DeJohnette
Released 1975
The album “Gateway,” featuring the legendary guitarist John Abercrombie, holds moments of pure musical alchemy, particularly noticeable on the first track during a bass solo by Dave Holland where Abercrombie’s guitar and Jack DeJohnette’s drums subtly retreat. This passage, so evocative of the Grateful Dead’s interplay between Phil Lesh, Bill Kreutzman, and Jerry Garcia, consistently pulls me away from my writing due to its deceptive familiarity. My journey into Abercrombie’s music began through Charles Lloyd, and discovering “Gateway” has been a revelation. With a career spanning fifty years and a prolific output, I’m eager to dive deeper into his discography and experience the full breadth of his musical explorations.
F****n' Up
By Neil Young & Crazyhorse
Released 2024
Neil Young and Crazy Horse continue to defy age with their latest rock endeavor. Despite all members being in their 70s, they rock with a vigor that rivals bands half their age. The opening guitar solo on “Broken Circle” could stand toe-to-toe with the best from Pearl Jam’s recent work. While this album may not redefine rock and roll, it’s a testament to the genre’s enduring passion and raw power. Crazy Horse might be the quintessential septuagenarian garage band—question is, do retirement homes have garages? This album makes me hope I can still rock as hard when I approach 80. It’s inspiring to see legends never lose their spark.
Sababa 5
By Sababa 5
Released 2022
Sababa 5’s self-titled album is a vibrant, dance-inducing journey through world jazz that’s been a delight to have on repeat, especially while cooking. This Israeli band masterfully blends Middle Eastern melodies with the rhythmic beats of African jazz, layers of reggae, funk, and even touches of American disco and psychedelia. The result is an eclectic and irresistibly fun soundtrack that promises to keep my kitchen lively. It’s one of those albums that feels fresh with each listen, ensuring it will remain a go-to in my playlist for a long time.
Where I'm Meant To Be
By Ezra Collective
Released 2022
“Where I’m Meant to Be” by Ezra Collective is a standout addition to my music collection this month, not just for its accolades—winning the Mercury Prize and earning a nomination at the Libera Awards—but for its exhilarating sound. This album is a celebration of jazz innovation, blending Cuban rhythms with the skillful leadership of a dynamic drummer and bandleader. The tight horn section, a bassist who lays down irresistible grooves, and a pianist whose solos, particularly on “Victory Dance,” are so captivating I wished they’d never end, all contribute to a groundbreaking sound. Ezra Collective boldly redefines jazz, echoing the declaration heard in “No Confusion”: “Everyone thinks I’m gonna play jazz like the Americans… No, I’m gonna play jazz my way.” And indeed, they do—brilliantly and unapologetically.
April was a month of remarkable musical discovery and rediscovery. I filled my library with an eclectic mix of sounds that spanned genres, continents, and decades. From the timeless rock of Neil Young and Crazy Horse to the cutting-edge musical-activism of Irreversible Entanglements, each album brought its own unique flavor and flair to my earbuds, living room, car, and kitchen. The artists, whether up-and-coming talents or seasoned veterans, continued to push the boundaries of their craft, providing not just background music but profound, thought-provoking compositions that demanded my attention and respect.
Reflecting on this month’s additions, it’s clear that this collection of albums not only serves as a personal soundtrack but as a lens through which to view the wider world of music. As I look forward to next month’s discoveries, I remain grateful for the artists who share their visions and voices, enriching our lives and challenging us to listen not just with our ears, but with our hearts and minds.