Cédric Hanriot’s track “Ego Chase,” featured on his upcoming album Time is Color Vol. 2, is a captivating fusion of hip-hop and jazz, showcasing the unique stylistic blend that defines Hanriot’s artistry. The track not only highlights his skillful composition and arrangements but also carries an important message about the complexities of human nature. “I wanted to express that human beings are multifaceted,” says Hanriot. “It’s difficult to sum up a person in a few attributes, and it’s these very attributes that create attraction, mystery, and connection between individuals—ultimately, this is part of the magic of life.”
As one of the most versatile musicians of his generation, Hanriot has worked alongside icons like Herbie Hancock, Robert Glasper, and Terri Lyne Carrington, contributing to GRAMMY-winning projects and earning a reputation as a sought-after pianist, composer, sound designer, and arranger. Now, with Time is Color Vol. 2, Hanriot presents a deeply personal and artistic evolution of his sound, following the success of his Time is Color project released in 2022. The first volume of the project garnered critical acclaim and even earned a spot on former U.S. President Barack Obama’s coveted summer Spotify playlist that year.
The Evolution of Cédric Hanriot’s Sound
Time is Color Vol. 2 is a natural progression from Hanriot’s previous work, delving deeper into the fusion of modern jazz with elements of hip-hop, funk, soul, and electronica. Tracks like “Comforting Glow” carry the echoes of jazz great Bill Evans, while others, like the high-energy “A Luminous World Part 2,” bring in powerful vocals from U.S. singer Tony Moreau.
One of the standout moments on the album is “Ego Chase,” where Hanriot is joined by British saxophonist and rapper Soweto Kinch, whose head-nod verses complement the track’s blend of jazz rhythms and hip-hop flow. Kinch’s involvement was something Hanriot envisioned from the moment he started writing the song. “When I created ‘Ego Chase,’ I knew I wanted Soweto’s unique style to be part of it,” Hanriot shares. “His voice perfectly captures the essence of what the track is about—human complexity and the journey of self-discovery.”
In addition to Kinch, Time is Color Vol. 2 features contributions from some of the most exciting voices in contemporary music, including American MCs JSWISS and Charles X, as well as saxophonist and singer Braxton Cook, who adds a soulful touch to the album’s rich musical landscape. French narrators Arthur H and Cyrielle Clair provide beautiful spoken word on tracks like “La Source” and “La Barque Du Temps,” while Swiss trumpeter Erik Truffaz delivers a stunning performance on “A Luminous World Part 1.”
A Journey of Spiritual and Musical Exploration
For Hanriot, Time is Color Vol. 2 is more than just an album—it’s a reflection of his personal and spiritual growth. “In recent years, I’ve delved deeper into my spirituality, influenced by a wide range of encounters, books, experiences, and reflections,” he explains. “Quantum physics has started to shed light on some of life’s mystical phenomena, and I believe that spirituality and quantum physics are not opposing forces. They are two expressions of the same underlying reality. This insight became a crucial catalyst for the album.”
The album is dedicated to the people who have enlightened Hanriot along his spiritual journey, and he hopes the music will resonate with listeners, bringing them the same positive energies that have guided him. “We are energy, music is energy, and life is magic,” Hanriot says. “I hope that this album helps people tap into that magic, through its vibrations and its messages.”
A Groundbreaking Musical Experience
Time is Color Vol. 2 explores new sonic territory while staying deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. The album’s eclectic mix of genres, its fearless experimentation, and its stellar guest appearances position Hanriot as one of the most innovative and exciting musicians working today. Tracks like “Ego Chase” are a testament to his ability to fuse genres in unexpected ways, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.
With Time is Color Vol. 2, Hanriot proves that his musical journey is far from over—he continues to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and create art that speaks to both the heart and the mind. The album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music that is as thought-provoking as it is sonically captivating.
As Hanriot says, "The proof is in the listening," and with Time is Color Vol. 2, listeners are sure to discover a rich and rewarding musical experience that transcends genres and touches on universal truths about life, energy, and connection.
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