Bassist Zack Lober Delivers a Deeply Personal Statement with So We Could Live

After more than 25 years as an in-demand sideman working with some of jazz’s most adventurous voices, bassist and composer Zack Lober steps forward with his most personal work to date: So We Could Live, releasing in 2025 on Zennez Records. Featuring a core trio of rising stars Sun-Mi Hong (drums) and Suzan Veneman (trumpet), joined by Dutch tenor saxophone legend Jasper Blom, the album balances singable melodies with fiery collective improvisation. At its heart, the project is a moving tribute to Lober’s late father and to all who sacrifice so that others may live better lives.

The album was recorded live in one large room at the renowned Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum, The Netherlands. The open setup allowed the group to capture immediacy, spontaneity, and connection. Longtime friend Ben van Gelder produced the session, with Alessandro Mazzieri as recording engineer, Micha de Kanter mixing, and Peter Brussee mastering.

The opening track and lead single, “Joe Type Tune,” pays tribute to Joe Henderson and his iconic chord-less trio The State of the Tenor. A two-bar descending bass line sets the stage for high-energy fireworks from Blom and Hong. “Behind a Myth,” Blom’s contribution inspired by Paul Hindemith, pushes furthest into atonality, while “The Loose End” was designed to leave space and suspense, ending with a musical cliffhanger. Lober’s “Vignette” nods to Wayne Shorter’s Etcetera album, mixing polytonal twists with an open, improvisational spirit.

The centerpiece of the record is Lober’s solo bass medley “Dad / Besame Mucho,” combining his own tribute to his father with his parents’ wedding song, creating the album’s most intimate moment. Blom returns with “Landscape” and “Feathered Head,” the latter inspired by Dave Holland’s Conference of the Birds. The closing title track, “So We Could Live,” builds slowly into an emotional climax, highlighted by Sun-Mi Hong’s dynamic solo.

Born in Montreal and now based in the Netherlands, Lober has built an international career performing with artists including David Binney, Henry Threadgill, Seamus Blake, Butch Morris, Ingrid Jensen, and Christine Jensen. His collaborators on this album bring equally impressive résumés: Blom, winner of the 2019 Boy Edgar Prize, is one of the Netherlands’ most versatile saxophonists; Veneman is a rising trumpeter and composer leading multiple projects across Europe; and Hong has become a vital force on the Amsterdam scene, recording for Edition Records and earning acclaim for her fearless creativity.

With So We Could Live, Lober transforms a career of collaboration into a bold, personal leader statement—one that celebrates family, sacrifice, and the joy of collective creation. By combining accessible melodies with adventurous improvisation, the album offers listeners a moving journey of resilience, intimacy, and connection.

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Dan Bruce Introduces New Trio Ohm! with Debut Album The Architects

After two acclaimed releases with his adventurous ensemble :beta collective, guitarist and composer Dan Bruce returns with a bold new project: Ohm!, a groove-driven trio making its debut with the album The Architects, arriving October 31, 2025 on Shifting Paradigm Records.

The record is a vibrant journey through funky pockets, jazz/rock fusion, and deep improvisational energy, perfect for fans of Kurt Rosenwinkel, Nir Felder, Wayne Krantz, and Tim Berne.

For Bruce, The Architects is as much a philosophical statement as it is a musical one.

“I’m always trying to deal with my incredible fear of death amidst my joy for life, and the anxiety it causes me to know that the two are inextricably linked,” Bruce shares. “By including disorder and dissonance in my music alongside the joyous moments, I’m working to accept both as an integral part of the experience. That said, the guiding principle for this album was to groove and have fun.”

That duality—joy and dissonance, groove and freedom—runs throughout the album’s nine tracks.

Known for his fiery improvisation and thoughtful compositions, Bruce has carved out a distinctive place in the modern jazz landscape. A former fixture of Chicago’s vibrant scene, he now resides in Cleveland, where he balances performing, teaching, and composing.

With over 50 sideman credits and four leader albums, Bruce has collaborated with some of the leading voices in jazz, including Seamus Blake, Ali Jackson, Sean Jones, Dan Wilson, and Marquis Hill. His work with :beta collective earned acclaim for its exploratory edge, with All About Jazz praising Bruce’s “generous, accessible sound with an exploratory edge.”

Ohm! unites Bruce with two of Northeast Ohio’s most in-demand players:

• Jordan McBride (bass) – known for work with Orrin Evans, Sean Jones, Roger Humphries

• Gabe Jones (drums) – a versatile force with Sean Jones, Howie Smith, and others

The trio’s name reflects both electrical current (Ohm) and the sacred vibration “Om”, symbolizing power, unity, and creation. True to that spirit, Ohm! performances often begin with group chanting to foster community.

“The most important thing art can be doing in these times is community building,” Bruce explains.

The album opens with its expansive title track, featuring saxophonist Jason Kush. Blending intricate passages with free improvisation, the piece meditates on building, rather than tearing down. In a touching moment, Bruce’s children are heard in the background, underscoring his hope that “we are raising architects” of the future.

Other highlights include:

• “Eh?” – a playful nod to Bruce’s Canadian tours, with a recurring A chord inspiring its tongue-in-cheek title.

• “Ice” – inspired by Gerhard Richter’s paintings, with nylon-string guitar textures and vocals by Nadine Douds.

• “Glimpse” – a restless ostinato blossoming into a vision of peace.

• “Major_Chord” – composed by producer Nathan Douds, embodying both joy and instability.

• “Rare Birds” – a groove-heavy closer featuring Reggie Watkins (trombone) and Nathan Douds (keyboards).

Douds also contributes programming to the album’s “Incidental” interludes, adding atmospheric links throughout the set.

With The Architects, Dan Bruce’s Ohm! emerges as a thrilling new force in modern jazz—groove-driven, exploratory, and deeply human in its embrace of joy, dissonance, and connection.

Reggae Legend Johnny Clarke Returns with New Album “African Roots”

Johnny Clarke, one of reggae’s most iconic voices, is back with African Roots, his latest album due October 3 on vinyl, CD, and digital platforms. Clarke first emerged on the Kingston music scene at just 17, releasing singles in 1972, and shortly after, his debut album None Shall Escape established him as one of the leading militant dread artists of his generation.

Clarke’s career is filled with reggae staples such as “Move Out of Babylon Rastaman,” “None Shall Escape The Judgement,” and “Enter Into His Gates With Praise,” tracks that continue to resonate with reggae fans worldwide. African Roots is his most ambitious project in years, combining fresh recordings with nods to the classic roots sound that defined his early work.

The album title comes from a song Clarke first recorded in 1976 with legendary producer Bunny Lee. African Roots contains 13 tracks that revisit Clarke’s storied back catalog while paying homage to the roots reggae era more broadly. The album’s lead single, “Legalize It,” is a passionate reinterpretation of Peter Tosh’s iconic anthem advocating for cannabis legalization.

Clarke also revisits fan favorites such as “Blood Dunza,” “Declaration of Rights” (originally by the Abyssinians), “Roots Natty Congo,” and “None Shall Escape The Judgement.” He further interprets Max Romeo’s “Chase The Devil”, Bob Marley’s “Crazy Baldhead” and “Stir It Up,” and delivers a bold, unexpected Caribbean take on The Eagles’ “Take It Easy.”

Reflecting on the project, Clarke shared:

“I am very grateful to work on this project. We have to do what we do to make the music great. I’m glad to be a part of it.”

The album not only revisits classics but also celebrates the sound, spirit, and cultural significance of the 1960s soul and roots jazz era that shaped reggae music. Fans can expect a collection that is both audacious and deeply authentic, blending Clarke’s militant roots style with modern production and Caribbean flair.

Track Listing – African Roots

1. None Shall Escape The Judgement

2. Declaration of Rights

3. Rain From The Sky

4. Roots Natty Roots Natty Congo

5. Crazy Baldhead

6. Blood Dunza

7. It’s A Shame

8. African Roots

9. Legalize It

10. Chase The Devil

11. Stir It Up

12. Cruisin’

13. Take It Easy

African Roots stands as a testament to Clarke’s longevity and influence in reggae music. By revisiting classics while introducing new recordings, the album bridges decades of roots music, honoring legends like Peter Tosh, Max Romeo, and Bob Marley, while reimagining songs in a fresh, contemporary context.

The inclusion of rare photographs and liner notes in the limited-edition vinyl, along with Clarke’s passionate vocal performances, makes African Roots not only a musical experience but also a collector’s item for serious reggae fans.

This album cements Johnny Clarke’s place as a defining voice of reggae, proving that his music continues to inspire and resonate with listeners across generations.

Joe Alterman & Mocean Worker Pay Tribute to Les McCann with New Cover “Burnin’ Coal”

Today, jazz fans can celebrate a new release as Joe Alterman & Mocean Worker (Adam Dorn) unveil their cover of the Les McCann classic “Burnin’ Coal.” This marks the third single from their forthcoming album, Keep The Line Open, which will be released on September 26 via MOWO! Inc.

The nine-track album is a vibrant celebration of McCann’s sound and the spirit of 1960s soul jazz. From funky late-night club vibes to nods to Latin grooves and gospel-like intensity, the project captures the energy and joy that defined McCann’s music. The limited-edition 180-gram orange vinyl also includes a 10-page insert featuring extensive liner notes by Alterman, Dorn, and Michael Smith, as well as rare and previously unpublished photos of McCann by Sharon Josepho.

Both Alterman and Dorn share a deep connection with McCann, who served as a mentor, collaborator, and friend. Alterman first met the pianist at New York City’s Blue Note, where McCann encouraged him to play blues during a soundcheck, ultimately giving Alterman his approval with a simple “Amen.” Dorn, through his father Grammy-winning producer Joel Dorn, had known McCann for years and worked with him on multiple projects, including live and reissue albums.

It was McCann’s passing that brought Alterman and Dorn together to create Keep The Line Open. Inspired by McCann’s legacy, the duo combined Dorn’s rhythmic ideas with Alterman’s improvisation to craft songs that feel both spontaneous and meticulously arranged.

“Burnin’ Coal” embodies McCann’s triumphant spirit, with a killer bass line, infectious rhythm, and piano grooves that are impossible to ignore. Alterman and Dorn aimed to both honor McCann’s classic track and infuse it with their own creative energy.

The full album spans multiple moods and textures:

• Funky grooves (“Gimme Some Skin”)

• Latin-inspired rhythms (“Moses Gonzalez”)

• Backbeat-heavy jazz (“I Love It!, I Love It!, I Love It!”)

• Soulful, church-like moments (“Yay Yay Yay”)

• Psychedelic 60s vibes (“Circus Going Backwards”)

• Modern, contemporary jazz (“Lemme Tell You Something”)

Throughout, McCann’s influence shines through, with his wit, humor, and loving nature echoing in every note.

Keep The Line Open is more than an album—it’s a musical celebration of a jazz legend and an era that defined modern soul jazz. Drawing inspiration from artists like Ramsey Lewis, Ahmad Jamal, Eddie Harris, and Cannonball Adderley, the album captures the joy, energy, and life-affirming spirit that McCann exemplified. For listeners, it’s a journey through the past and a reminder of the timelessness of soulful jazz.

Jeff Logan Channels Four Generations of Domestic Violence Into Powerful New Album “Ghost Protocol”

For singer-songwriter Jeff Logan, the subject of domestic violence is deeply personal. When he discovered that his daughter had been abused for the third time by her partner, Logan faced a breaking point. He could either take matters into his own hands with irreversible consequences—or channel his rage into something constructive. Choosing the latter, the veteran correctional officer and musician poured his emotions into his studio, writing, producing, arranging, and recording sixteen raw, unflinching R&B and hip-hop tracks in just eight days.

The result is “Ghost Protocol,” an album that shines a spotlight on the generational cycles of abuse that have scarred Logan’s family for decades. The project will be released October 3 on Fire & Ice Entertainment Network, aligning with Domestic Violence Awareness Month.A Family Legacy of Pain—and Resilience

Domestic violence is not new to Logan. His paternal grandmother, mother, himself, and now his daughter have all been victims. This painful family history gave Logan both urgency and perspective in creating “Ghost Protocol.”

“I consciously tried to enter into an alter ego state of mind for each perspective as I attempted to channel my angst about what happened to my daughter, my mother, me when I was a child, my paternal grandmother, and a host of women who have, over the years, confided in me about their experiences,” Logan explained. “Domestic violence does not discriminate. It is pervasive, devastating, and too often lethal. My purpose with this album is to do something about it.”

Each track on “Ghost Protocol” is written from a different vantage point: the victim, the abuser, the abuser’s mother, and the victim’s family. Logan’s 35 years of experience working in corrections add authenticity to his narratives, grounding the songs in unvarnished truth.

The soundscape is as varied as the stories: neo-soul ballads, hip-hop anthems, R&B grooves, and gospel-like confessionals.

Highlights include:

• “Misery Loves Company” – A bluesy ballad about realizing you’re trapped in a toxic, abusive relationship.

• “Daddy’s PSA” – Logan’s visceral outburst after seeing the physical damage inflicted on his daughter.

• “I Don’t Know Why” – From the abuser’s perspective, questioning their own violent impulses.

• “Ghost Protocol” (title track) – A chilling warning from a victim who speaks from beyond the grave.

• “2-Minute Reflections” – Family members mourning at a victim’s funeral, recalling their unanswered pleas for her to leave.

• “Flame” – A heartbreaking song from a child’s perspective, dealing with the loss of a parent to domestic violence.

• “M.O.S. (Mother of Suspect)” – A mother’s lament as her son is charged with abuse.

• “P.R.T. (Preach, Reach, Teach)” – A call to mentor young men before they repeat cycles of violence.

• “Penal Purgatory” – The closing track, offering a chilling inner monologue from an incarcerated abuser, reflecting on life behind bars.

Logan doesn’t shy away from graphic storytelling. Instead, he uses his platform to confront hard truths about abuse, justice, and healing. “Ghost Protocol” is meant to be more than an album—it’s a cautionary tale.

“My overarching desire is for it to strongly encourage victims and victimizers to seek immediate help,” Logan said.

A multi-instrumentalist with a gift for melody, Jeff Logan first made waves with his 2011 debut Black Tie Affair. Last year, he teamed with two-time GRAMMY® winner Paul Brown for Indigo, a smooth R&B-jazz set. His recent single Fire and Ice has enjoyed worldwide radio play. With Ghost Protocol, Logan ventures into R&B and hip-hop storytelling for the first time, proving his versatility and depth as a creator.

Looking ahead, Logan plans to release his next urban-jazz instrumental project, “Obsidian,” in early 2026. But for now, his mission is clear: to use music as a force for awareness, healing, and change.

Track Listing – Ghost Protocol

1. Misery Loves Company (part 1)

2. Please to the 3rd Power

3. Daddy’s PSA (part 1)

4. I Don’t Know Why (reflective version)

5. Ghost Protocol (part 1)

6. 2-Minute Reflections

7. BOLO-Juris Prudence (part 1)

8. M.O.S. (Mother of Suspect)

9. Flame!

10. Move to the Cool

11. a2 + b2 = c2 (Extended Version)

12. V.I. (Victim Impact Statement)

13. P.R.T. (Preach, Reach, Teach)

14. Adulting 101

15. Ghost Host Protocol 2

16. Penal Purgatory (part 1)

Johanna Linnea Jakobsson Releases New Single “Better Off” Ahead of Forthcoming Album

Copenhagen-based singer and songwriter Johanna Linnea Jakobsson returns with her new single, “Better Off”, a preview of her forthcoming full-length album Don’t Overthink It, set for release on October 31, 2025 via Zack’s MUSIC.

“Better Off” is a refreshingly candid take on the end of a relationship. Rather than dwelling on heartbreak, Jakobsson turns the theme into what she calls a “happy breakup song.” The track captures the emotional push and pull leading up to the final decision to walk away—acknowledging a touch of sentimentality but ultimately celebrating freedom, closure, and growth.

“It isn’t necessarily about a romantic relationship,” Jakobsson explains. “It could just as easily be about a friendship. The overall feeling is the same: you feel like you’ve tried your best, but it just isn’t working out—and that is okay.” This sense of emotional honesty, combined with her natural melodic touch, gives the single a universal quality that listeners can immediately connect with.

The track features a minimal but impactful ensemble. Jakobsson’s warm, expressive vocal delivery is supported by Olof Wullt on electric guitar and Simon Petersson on double bass, creating an intimate yet uplifting sound. The production, guided by John Fernold, lets the lyrics breathe while balancing delicacy with energy.

“Better Off” was recorded at Signalverket Studios in Malmö, Sweden, by Jesse Emmoth, and later mixed and mastered by Markus Nilsson at Sunnanå Studio. The result is a polished yet organic sound that reflects Jakobsson’s storytelling focus and her ability to blend heartfelt songwriting with elegant musical arrangements.

With her sophomore album Don’t Overthink It just around the corner, Jakobsson is poised to expand her reach as both a vocalist and songwriter. The new record promises to further explore her gift for crafting songs that are personal yet universally resonant, balancing lyrical depth with melodic accessibility.

• Vocals: Johanna Linnea Jakobsson

• Electric Guitar: Olof Wullt

• Double Bass: Simon Petersson

• Music & Lyrics: Johanna Linnea Jakobsson

• Producer: John Fernold

• Recording Engineer: Jesse Emmoth (Signalverket Studios, Malmö)

• Mixing & Mastering: Markus Nilsson (Sunnanå Studio, Malmö)

• Label: Zack’s MUSIC

Roy Ayers’ Timeless Grooves Reimagined: Delfonic Reworked EP #1

Few artists embody the warmth, groove, and soul of jazz-funk like Roy Ayers. His timeless compositions have inspired generations of musicians, DJs, and producers. With Delfonic Reworked EP #1, the legendary vibraphonist’s music is given fresh new life for 2025, offering listeners a dancefloor-ready reinterpretation while preserving the sensual spirit that made the originals so enduring.

Released on BBE (Barely Breaking Even), the project pulls from the Virgin Ubiquity sessions—unreleased gems Ayers recorded in the late 1970s that were rediscovered and issued decades later. Berlin-based producer Delfonic takes four of these rare tracks and injects them with new rhythmic energy, creating reworks that sound both vintage and modern, soulful and club-ready.

The EP includes:

• Green & Gold (Delfonic rework)

• What’s The T (Delfonic edit)

• Sugar (Delfonic rework)

• Oh What A Lonely Feeling (Delfonic edit)

Each cut retains Ayers’ signature jazz-funk vibe—shimmering vibraphone tones, silky vocal phrasing, and warm grooves—while adding crisp new arrangements and subtle production layers that bring them forward into today’s sound system culture.

Roy Ayers: The Godfather of Neo-Soul and Jazz-Funk

Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Roy Ayers began his career as a jazz vibraphonist, working alongside luminaries like Herbie Mann before stepping out as a bandleader in the late 1960s. By the 1970s, he had carved a unique niche at the crossroads of jazz, funk, and soul. His group Roy Ayers Ubiquity became a vehicle for exploring new grooves that were equal parts improvisational and danceable.

Ayers penned classics such as Everybody Loves the Sunshine, Running Away, and Searchin’, songs that remain cornerstones of jazz-funk and have been sampled endlessly in hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music. His influence is so wide-reaching that he’s often called the “Godfather of Neo-Soul”, bridging the gap between jazz’s improvisational depth and soul music’s accessibility.

Even in his 80s, Ayers continued to tour and collaborate, proving that his music’s warmth and message remain timeless.

Delfonic: Reimagining the Groove

Delfonic (real name Markus Lindner) is a Berlin-based DJ, selector, and producer known for his deep crates and forward-thinking edits. A respected figure in Europe’s underground music scene, Delfonic has long specialized in reinterpreting classics with a fresh touch—maintaining their soul while reworking them for today’s dancefloors.

On Delfonic Reworked EP #1, he approaches Ayers’ music with reverence, amplifying the rhythmic pulse and layering grooves that highlight the sensual, righteous energy at the core of Ayers’ work. The result is a set of tracks that feel both reverent to the past and relevant to the present.

A Bridge Between Eras

With this first volume, Delfonic Reworked EP #1 offers a perfect entry point for new listeners and longtime Ayers fans alike. The EP captures the timeless spirit of Ayers’ 1970s recordings while reshaping them for a new generation of clubgoers and vinyl collectors. For anyone who has ever felt the radiant joy of Everybody Loves the Sunshine or the infectious drive of Running Away, these reworks are both a tribute and a continuation.

Ben Garnett Soars with Sophomore Acoustic Masterpiece Kite’s Keep

For fans of acoustic guitar music, Ben Garnett’s sophomore studio album Kite’s Keep is a revelation. Blending storytelling, orchestral textures, and world-building atmospheres, Garnett crafts vivid soundscapes where the guitar acts as both centerpiece and collaborator. Drawing inspiration from jazz, string band, and classical traditions, the album transcends genre, creating an intimate and innovative sonic space.

Featuring an all-star ensemble—Darol Anger and Brittany Haas on fiddle, Ethan Jodziewicz and Paul Kowert on bass, Chris Eldridge on guitar, and Matt Glassmeyer on piano—Kite’s Keep thrives on dynamic interplay and collective improvisation. Each musician contributes to Garnett’s inventive yet familiar compositions, resulting in music that feels both exploratory and welcoming.

The Musicians Behind the Music

• Ben Garnett (guitar, composer): A rising force in modern acoustic music, Garnett is known for his boundary-pushing compositions that merge folk, jazz, and classical elements. His playing blends technical brilliance with lyrical sensitivity, making him one of the most forward-thinking voices of his generation.

• Darol Anger (fiddle): A pioneering figure in contemporary string music, Anger has been a driving force in progressive bluegrass and jazz since his early days with the David Grisman Quintet and Turtle Island String Quartet. His improvisational energy brings a daring, exploratory spirit to the album.

• Brittany Haas (fiddle): Widely regarded as one of the finest fiddlers of her generation, Haas has played with Crooked Still, Hawktail, and Gillian Welch. Her lyrical tone and deep knowledge of old-time traditions add warmth and depth to Garnett’s compositions.

• Ethan Jodziewicz (bass): Known for his versatility across classical, jazz, and folk, Jodziewicz has collaborated with musicians such as Béla Fleck and Sierra Hull. His grounding yet melodic bass playing anchors the ensemble with finesse.

• Paul Kowert (bass): A core member of Punch Brothers, Kowert has redefined the role of the double bass in modern acoustic music. His resonant tone and rhythmic sensitivity provide a powerful counterpoint to Garnett’s guitar.

• Chris Eldridge (guitar): As a founding member of Punch Brothers and longtime guitarist in the progressive bluegrass scene, Eldridge’s elegant, clear-toned style bridges tradition and innovation. His interplay with Garnett adds sparkle and momentum.

• Matt Glassmeyer (piano): A creative improviser and composer, Glassmeyer’s piano textures bring harmonic depth and color to Kite’s Keep. His collaborative sensibilities make him a subtle yet essential presence in the ensemble.

An Album for Guitar Lovers and Beyond

Garnett demonstrates an uncanny ability to harness the guitar’s full expressive range without overpowering the ensemble. Listeners are treated to lush, resonant tapestries that invite repeated listening, offering a deep, immersive experience. With Kite’s Keep, Garnett firmly establishes himself as one of modern acoustic music’s leading innovators, delivering a work that celebrates the acoustic guitar while serving as a sonic refuge for all who engage with it.

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Tracklisting

Disc 1 – Side 1

1. Look Again

2. Tell Me About You

3. Cellar Door

4. Sebastian's Garden

5. The Clockmaker

6. Apocalypse Club

7. A Place For The In Between

8. Post Office Prodigies

9. Somewhere Near Hope

Guitari Baro: A Transcendent Dialogue of West African Strings and Rhythm

Guitari Baro—which translates to “Guitar Conversations”—is the debut instrumental project from a remarkable trio of griot musicians from Guinea and Mali. Guitarists Gaoussou Kouyate and Kerfala Diabate join master balafonist Lassana Diabate to create a mesmerizing dialogue rooted in the rich Mande griot tradition.

Drawing from regional styles of the Mande repertoire while seamlessly weaving in jazz, Congolese rumba, rock and roll, Guinean dance band grooves, and Cuban influences, Guitari Baro evokes both the historical lineage and contemporary vitality of West African music. Each track showcases the trio’s extraordinary virtuosity, intricate improvisation, and intuitive interplay, producing a sound that is at once ancestral, cosmopolitan, and futuristic.

The album is the first new release on Chrysalis Global, a label dedicated to international jazz and folk, following acclaimed reissues of Toumani Diabate’s New Ancient Strings and Kaira. The ensemble’s electrifying live debut at the 2025 Dakar Music Expo captured audiences and critics alike, offering a thrilling glimpse into the trio’s exhilarating stage presence and dynamic chemistry.

Mastered by Phil Kinrade at AIR Mastering, the album is available on CD with an 8-page booklet featuring in-depth sleeve notes by co-producer Lucy Duran, and also on 140g LP vinyl with accompanying notes. Guitari Baro is a compelling introduction to a group whose musical conversations transcend borders and generations, reaffirming the timeless power of the griot tradition while inviting modern listeners into a vibrant world of cross-cultural sound.

Tracklisting:
Disc 1 – Side 1

1. Guitari Baro

2. Mamelles

3. Bambougou

4. Lamban Blues

5. Kolonkan

6. Sobrasito

7. Hommage A La Rumba Congolaise

8. Sokona

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Francois & Sylvain Rabbath Launch Amall – A Global Jazz-Funk Odyssey

Legendary composer and double bassist Francois Rabbath joins forces with his son, pianist and producer Sylvain Rabbath, on Amall, the debut album of the Rabbath Electric Orchestra. Featuring stellar guest appearances from Keziah Jones, Matthieu Chedid, Victor Wooten, Laurent de Wilde, and Minino Garay, the album is a richly orchestrated journey through jazz-funk fusion infused with Middle Eastern influences. Francois Rabbath also contributes original artwork and a printed sleeve, making Amall a complete artistic statement.

Over six years of international touring, the Rabbaths absorbed diverse musical traditions, translating them into compositions that reflect their global travels. Since the early 1960s, Francois Rabbath’s double bass has shaped landmark recordings across genres, collaborating with icons such as Barbara, Paco Ibanez, Charles Aznavour, and Edith Piaf. Now, together with Sylvain, he channels decades of experience into a record that pulses with life, rhythm, and cinematic sweep.

The album’s tracks are vibrant expressions of cultural fusion: Keziah Jones and Matthieu Chedid bring their guitar prowess, Laurent de Wilde’s piano and Victor Wooten’s bass add depth and groove, while Raphael Imbert’s saxophone and Minino Garay’s percussion create a rhythmic and harmonic tapestry that moves seamlessly between open plains, urban funk, and intimate, shadowy spaces. Every note reflects meticulous studio refinement, transforming a wealth of global inspiration into a coherent, compelling musical narrative.

Amall is a celebration of global jazz-fusion, honoring tradition while fearlessly exploring new sonic territories—a record that rewards close listening while offering instant emotional resonance.

Tracklisting:
Disc 1
Side 1

1. Sevillana

2. 66 Grand St

3. Samares

4. Espoir

5. Atoun

Side 2

1. Twin City

2. Camomille

3. Samir

4. Creation

Ruby Rushton Unveils Legacy! – A Bold, Expansive Fifth Studio Album

Ruby Rushton, one of the UK’s most influential contemporary jazz ensembles, returns with their fifth studio album, Legacy!, marking a bold new chapter in the band’s storied career. Co-written by bandleader Tenderlonious and keyboardist Aidan Shepherd, the record expands the quartet’s sound while retaining the infectious energy and tight interplay that have become their hallmark.

In the past, Ruby Rushton’s recordings were defined by a “one take” live approach, deliberately avoiding overdubs to capture the immediacy of the performance. For Legacy!, however, the group—also featuring trumpeter Nick Walters and drummer Tim Carnegie—embraced the studio as an instrument. Layered horn and flute lines were added atop the original live takes, giving the album a wider sonic spectrum and a new depth of texture. The result is an album that feels both expansive and intimate, allowing each musician’s virtuosity to shine in a rich, immersive soundscape.

Recorded over four joyous days in January 2025 at Kent’s Rimshot Studios, Legacy! captures a band at the height of its powers. Between the laughter, inside jokes, and camaraderie, the quartet delivered performances of remarkable cohesion and freedom. Fourteen years after the release of Two for Joy, Ruby Rushton demonstrates that their creativity continues to evolve—melding catchy riffs, heady grooves, and lyrical melodies with a newfound maturity and sense of belonging.

The album is available on heavyweight black vinyl with gatefold sleeve, collectible inserts featuring each band member, and black poly liners, as well as a 6-panel digipak CD edition. With Legacy!, Ruby Rushton affirms their position as one of the UK’s most adventurous and enduring jazz ensembles.

Personnel:

• Tenderlonious – alto saxophone, soprano saxophone, flute, alto flute, piccolo, percussion

• Nick Walters – trumpet, percussion

• Aidan Shepherd – piano, synthesizer, percussion

• Tim Carnegie – drums, percussion

Tracklisting:
Disc 1
Side 1

1. An (other) Introduction

2. Charlie's Way

3. Theme from Legacy! (Part 1)

4. La Nina

5. Otto

Side 2

1. Walk to Regio's

2. Theme from Legacy! (Part 2)

3. Shadows

4. The Lighthouse

5. Theme from Legacy! (Part 3)