Music Factory Records has released a funky, soul-infused track titled "Cherry Peach" on November 8th, featuring a stellar lineup of jazz and funk heavyweights, including composer and guitarist Ari Joshua, keyboard virtuoso John Medeski, legendary drummer Billy Martin, and bassist Jason Fraticelli. The track, recorded at the famed Applehead Recording Studio in Woodstock, NY, combines the raw energy of classic funk with a fresh, modern edge.
A Dream Collaboration
Ari Joshua, the composer and guitarist behind "Cherry Peach," reflects on the recording experience as a dream come true. "Working with John and Billy was a dream realized," he shares. "I’ve admired Medeski, Martin & Wood since my high school days. The session at Applehead, with Chris Bittner and Michael Birnbaum at the helm, was both creatively immersive and comfortable." Joshua recalls Billy Martin’s humorous remark that he’d have enough music to enjoy for a lifetime after the session. “Billy joked afterward that I’d have enough music to enjoy for a lifetime, or as he put it, more than I would know what to do with. Both Billy and John were brilliant. Some of the things they said and the way they contributed will impact me for the rest of my life. ‘Cherry Peach’ captures the unique energy and connection that was prevalent during the entire session—there are no bad songs, it's all solid gold."
The Track: A Retro Groove with Modern Polish
"Cherry Peach" opens with John Medeski’s soulful organ lines, laying the foundation of a deep, swampy funk groove that hits hard from the first note. As the track progresses, Ari Joshua’s Hendrix-inspired fuzz guitar solo blends effortlessly with a cascading melody that propels the song forward. The chemistry between the musicians is palpable—Billy Martin’s inventive drumming and Jason Fraticelli’s resonant bass work together to create a rhythm section that drives the track while allowing room for creative expression.
Adding extra layers to the track is Jeff Fielder, guitarist for Painted Shield, the Indigo Girls, and Duff McKagan, who helped polish the final version in the studio. Fielder’s contribution adds a playful, bouncy energy, elevating the track’s dynamic, infectious spirit.
Ari and Jeff are also working on a series of re-imagined versions of their songs, with "Cherry Peach" being just one of the tracks undergoing this creative treatment. An original unedited quartet version of the song will be released at a later date, offering listeners a different take on the track.
The Engineering Team and Visuals
The track’s lush, textured sound is the result of a skilled engineering team. Recorded by Chris Bittner at Applehead Recording, mixed by Jeff Fielder at Oliver Blue Studio in Mount Baker, WA, and mastered by Ed Brooks at Resonant Mastering, the track boasts a rich, dynamic soundscape. Monte Mitchell from Forest Shore Designs created the complementary visuals for the promotional video, perfectly capturing the vibe of "Cherry Peach."
About Ari Joshua
South African-born and U.S.-raised, Ari Joshua has established himself as a versatile and dynamic force in the music world. A graduate of The New School in New York City, Ari has collaborated with a wide range of notable artists, including members of The Trey Anastasio Band, Robert Glasper, Delvon Lamarr, and Skerik. Through his label, Music Factory Records, he has been steadily releasing an eclectic blend of jazz, funk, and improvisational music.
In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Ari is the founder of The Music Factory, a music school dedicated to fostering a love of music among students of all ages. "Cherry Peach" is one of 32 highly anticipated releases slated for 2024, marking a prolific year for both Ari and the label. Over the last year, Ari's music has garnered over 1 million organic listeners across various platforms, a testament to the growing popularity and impact of his sound.
What’s Next?
"Cherry Peach" is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting year for Ari Joshua and Music Factory Records. With 32 releases planned for 2024, fans can look forward to a continued journey through rich, groove-heavy soundscapes, pushing the boundaries of jazz, funk, and improvisation.
Stay tuned for more releases and follow Music Factory Records to keep up with Ari Joshua’s growing musical catalog.
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