2021 starts on a bright note with this striking tribute to the prodigious tenor saxophonist Farrell ‘Pharoah’ Sanders. It takes us on a majestic journey with an artful mix of footages and landscapes that matches perfectly the selection of the many masterpieces that Pharoah created in his extensive music career (he recently turned 80 and is still performing). The video is accompanied by the delicate voice of Norwegian Brazilian jazz singer Charlotte Dos Santos that magnifies the moving lyrics taken from some of Pharoah’s songs (the intro is from “Colors“). Her remembrance of the first time listening to Pharoah Sanders is a particularly touching moment. Having discovered Pharoah’s music recently, I remember vividly a similar experience the first time I’ve heard “You’Ve Got To Have Freedom“, a personal revelation which gave me a whole new perspective to Jazz.
Kamasi Washington – Askim (Kai Alcé Interpretation) – 2019
There is definitely room for more crossovers between House and Jazz such as this impeccable work from Kai Alcé. The beats fit seamlessly and give an interesting melodic structure for the beautiful sax sequences of US contemporary Jazz figurehead Kamasi Washington. After selling like hot cakes on its first release in 2019, this great EP recently got a much welcome repress so don’t sleep on it 😉
Discogs: https://www.discogs.com/Kamasi-Washington-Gregory-Porter-Kai-Alc%C3%A9-Interpretations/release/13608035
Chris Energy – Untitled – 1998
America is undeniably the cradle of Jazz music but when it comes to contemporary Jazz, it is noticeable that 🇬🇧 leads the way with its incredibly fertile scene. Many talented musicians have been popping over the last years: Joe Armon-Jones, Tenderlonious, Yuseef Dayes, Kamaal Williams, Ashley Henry…
In fact, the Brits (Dego, Kaidi Tatham…) have been pushing the boundaries of Jazz since the 90’s, when they started mixing swinging beats (instead of the classic 4/4) with electronic sounds to create Broken Beat. The Jazz influences are apparent in this track from Chris Energy, a personal favorite in this style.
Discogs (original): https://www.discogs.com/Chris-Energy-Untitled/release/35656
Aldorande – Summer Body – 2020
The French Jazz-Funk quartet Aldorande has recently released this little gem meant to kick off your summer the right way. With vocals as smooth and languid as a siren’s call, this song is best served contemplating the sea, but will go wonderfully with garden parties or picnics outings as well.
Discogs: https://www.discogs.com/Aldorande-Summer-Body/release/15463960
Pedro & Jenna Camille – Float – 2018
This gem reaches its best potential after a long working day, it will completely soothe your mind. The collaboration between the Portuguese producer and the American vocalist works wonderfully with a subtle mix of Future Jazz, Broken Beat and Soul. This is one for all Dego’s fans out there 👐
Discogs: https://www.discogs.com/fr/Pedro-Jenna-Camille-This-Is-What-Im-Going-Through-EP/release/12307974
Jams & Gems 