Blue-in-Green:PODCAST #110: La Molly

Welcome to Episode #110 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST which this week sees Imran reconnect with the creator and host of the Super Sonido Show, La Molly.

Joining us from Denver, Colorado, the incredible broadcaster, DJ, reviewer, actor and artist, La Molly joins us for our show today to discuss the monumental milestone of having reached 100 shows with Blue-in-Green:RADIO this year, having contributed to 28 episodes of our 4 Corners series and also having appeared 8 times on our Blue-in-Green:PODCAST.  

It's always such a pleasure to catch up with Molly to bask in the glory of her continued successes and for this episode, as well as discussing street art, DJ gigs and the art of the music review, we also have the chance to unveil the first of our music questionnaire series exploring our guest's personal connection to the music they listen to, where the fandom comes from and cherished memories as a music fan first.

The Super Sonido Show airs Tuesdays at 5pm UK / 10am, Denver, Colorado.

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#110_La Molly

'Séquences' by Underground Canopy

'Séquences' marks the new EP release from Parisian collective Underground Canopy unveiled via the sensational MENACE recording home.

Marking an official follow-up to Underground Canopy's debut release 'Bluestaeb & S. Fidelity Present Underground Canopy' from 2020, the new EP showcases the dynamic sextet demonstrating their skill via a series of live recordings marking something of a reunion following the government-imposed quarantine period that turned the world upside down.  While, as a global society, we adapted to Zoom-based communication, home schooling, social distancing and excessive amounts of hand sanitizer, it was inspiring to see the moments of creativity that time helped to spark which brings us to the brilliant music throughout 'Séquences'.

These exquisite selections showcase the band's expansive styles and disciplines across the ever-broadening scope of contemporary jazz.  Boasting their affections for the hip-hop-inspired productions of Jay Dee to the more contemporary stylings of, say, Thundercat or Terrace Martin; Underground Canopy infuse all of these inspired elements into a series of unique and distinctive live performances that further solidify their own remarkable voice within today's jazz music scene.

With the band comprised of an exciting array of musicians including bassist Warren Dongué, Jérémy Talon on electric guitar, Jonathan Aréna on keys, trumpeter Necky Gomis and two new names to the 'Séquences' line-up in drummer Raphaël Henry and Christopher Johnson on electric guitar, Underground Canopy  present such an outstanding take on their music over the project's five tracks - from the warm and intimate EP opener 'Crépuscule' to the sublime 'Slonnie Tendo'.  As a collective, the band are able to convey so many facets and dimensions to their music from the tendency to incorporate elements of improvisation within their compositions that comfortably sit alongside the infectious groove-based, neo-soul stylings that adorn the music throughout these sessions.

A further captivating quality to the 'Séquences' project comes in the form of the accompanying music videos that are beautifully filmed and provide a genuinely captivating element to the band and their music.  Filmed as a series of single shot performances, the incredible quality really highlights the intimate nature of these sessions elevating 'Séquences' to compelling levels of creativity.

'Séquences' adds another gem within the burgeoning catalogue of Underground Canopy and MENACE Records and with the wealth of ideas and concepts expressed on this release, we look forward to the exciting directions they take their music in next.

'Freedom Rhythm' by Giovanni Angelini

'Freedom Rhythm' marks the new album release from drummer and composer Giovanni Angelini who unveils his new project through A.MA Records.

The word "freedom" in relation to jazz has always been a fairly alluring term.  There's a great Dave Brubeck quote where he states that jazz stands for freedom, "It's supposed to be the voice of freedom: get out there and improvise, and take chances, and don't be a perfectionist - leave that to the classical musicians".

Freedom in jazz can be interpreted in numerous different ways but there's something inherently special about the term representing an unbridled joy to perform and create without constraints which Giovanni Angelini strives to capture throughout his inaugural A.MA Records release.

A graduate from the revered Conservatory of Monopoli in Italy, Angelini finds himself supported on 'Freedom Rhythm' by an excellent ensemble of musicians including Vince Abbracciante (piano), Dario Giacovelli (bass), Alberto Parmegiani (guitar), Gaetano Partipilo (sax), Giuseppe Todisco (trumpet), Antonio Fallacara (trombone) and Giovanni Astorino (cello). 

Together, the musicians create some dynamic and inspired soundscapes that convey their genuine passion for the music and their affections for a varied and diverse take on contemporary jazz.  Many of the album's tracks are teaming with energy including 'Subway' which showcases Abbracciante's electric piano which helps to infuse the track with subtle dalliances of 70's jazz-funk.  The album's opening number, 'Voyager', seems to nicely tie in to the album's accompanying artwork which helps perpetuate the notion - of not just freedom - but of exploration.  A multi-layered track that sets the tone nicely for Angelini's blueprint.

The album highlight however could quite possibly be found in 'I Need Your Smile' which features the indelible talents of Simona Severini who blesses the project with her distinct style and sublime vocal.  The track is an exquisite contribution to the album and features the band members painting a flawless and intricate backdrop for Serverini to shine over.

As exemplified by our opening Brubeck quote, freedom in this context should be likened to taking risks and having the confidence to present one's unhindered vision of their art.  A.MA Records continually provide that platform for their artists to achieve just that and have found a like-minded union with Angelini affording him the space to create and explore his own voice when it comes to making music.

'Canne à Sucre' by As Valet

"It is our duty not to forget history, to transmit and protect our cultural heritage to each generation."

'Canne à Sucre' represents a continuation of a journey that Parisian producer and beat-maker Cris "As Valet" Davidas started back in 2020.  Through the dynamic French label, A Night on Canopy, As Valet's third album 'Inner Journey' served as something of a spiritual reconnection to Davidas' roots in the Caribbean island of La Martinique. 

A spiritual reconnection as well as a musical one with As Valet's archetypal penchant for hip-hop-inspired production having found new inspiration alongside the music and legacy of La Martinique.  The results then for 'Inner Journey' and now, two years later, for 'Canne à Sucre' make for an incredible journey that absolutely does pay respects to the music and culture's lineage while also empowering As Valet to decidedly look forward to create with confidence.

And as a listener, it's a fascinating concept to be taken on by an artist worthy of high esteem.  But these two poignant Canopy releases aren't the only recent projects that hold the keys to As Valet's past.  Many will remember As Valet as one part of the innovative Parisian future soul quartet Electric Conversation from the UK label, Futuristica Music.  A tightly-knit unit that paired As Valet with group members Oz, LaNote and Gus La Temp, the collective released two fantastic projects in 'Communication' (2007) and 'Electric Conversation' (2013) which unveiled an exciting golden-era hip-hop and soulful infusion of electronica.  January of this year saw the release of 'The Lost Recordings' which provided this glorious snapshot of the four friends and those early years recording together and finding their voice before the eventual release of their debut album years later.

'The Lost Recordings' is as much a part of As Valet's tapestry than anything else and another pivotal piece of what makes 'Canne à Sucre' such an incredible release.  Spearheaded by the single 'Mornes' featuring vocalist Raphaël Neblai and spoken word by Jewice, the single and accompanying video paint such an excellent introduction to the project as a whole.  Other album highlights come in the form of the album's title track, the ominous-sounding 'Vérité' featuring Cris Prolific and the sublime 'Missié Guedon' featuring vocalists Lanoir and LaNote.  The brilliant production of 'Tumbélé' could very well be the highlight of the whole project though - its warm keyboards, looped saxophone and vocal samples just encapsulate such a hypnotic vibe you wish the song could play for another ten minutes.

'Canne à Sucre' proves to be a captivating listen and a project born of such pure-of-heart intentions as encapsulated by the opening quote from As Valet to surmise the project.  It will be fascinating to see whether As Valet's journey of self-discovery will continue beyond 'Canne à Sucre' or whether this album represents the destination reached.  If so, it's been an incredible journey!

'Fledge' by kotokid

'Fledge' is the new EP release from Dutch bassist and producer kotokid, also known as Freek Mulder.

Finding its home on the excellent Wicked Wax Records, 'Fledge' finds itself in outstanding company as it's a project that is unveiled as part of a swathe of incredible new releases from the Dutch record label which includes lush new singles from vocalist Ruth Koleva, a highly-anticipated full-length project from phenomenal jazz outfit Antares Flare due later this year and the debut release from beat-music makers Y.O.P.E.

It's certainly proving to be an exceptional year for Wicked Wax with kotokid's 'Fledge' bursting with the same levels of talent, creativity and personality within its music to comfortably sit alongside these incredible projects.  And when exploring Mulder's extensive catalogue of music to date, the sheer brilliance of this release should come as no surprise at all.  A collaborator, producer and session musician for such a wide variety of projects, Mulder's innumerable talents have proved key facets to projects like the blissful synth-pop of Floatmonki or for vocalist Áslaug, also as producer for neo-soul vocalist Isla van Hout's debut EP ('Bring It On', 2020); The roll call continues however with Mulder also demonstrating his skill within jazz-based projects which include serving as a member for guitarist Prashant Samlal's quartet or his collaborative two-person project with Jessie Brevé under the name Taiga.

It really is an incredible body of work demonstrating some fantastic names and releases within the contemporary Dutch scene and highlighting Mulder's prominence amongst an inspired talent pool.

Despite the range of varying styles and projects that Mulder has been a part of - with bass in hand - what makes 'Fledge' so unique is that this is a completely unhindered presentation of his music so far with himself squarely positioned within centre stage.  From the opening, slow build of 'Unfreeze', the EP's statement of intent is laid bare at the outset and Mulder, under the guise of kotokid, doesn't waste a second as he presents a selection of five indefinable compositions that masterfully incorporates sounds from the variety of projects that have benefitted from his distinctive touch. 

Mulder's bold and ambitious vision for 'Fledge' is helped by some great names throughout including Jonathan Szegedi on drums and Maarten Cima on guitar along with vocalist Bahghi also bringing her talents to 'New Amsterdam' and 'Neghisti' introducing a welcome twinge of neo-soul into the proceedings.  With 'Fledge' having been recorded within the hallowed walls of Flowriders Studio, the EP finds itself in the capable hands of Vincent "Seravince" Helbers who helms the project's mixing and recording duties and even contributes some additional piano to 'Neghisti'.  

The brilliant and intricate compositions throughout 'Fledge' really do justice to Freek Mulder's musical journey so far.  A genuinely imaginative and creative artist, his ascension to presenting himself as an artist in his own right will only cement his legacy and further solidify himself as a revered name within the burgeoning Dutch scene.

Blue-in-Green:PODCAST #109: Laura Benedek of 7th SENSE

Welcome to Episode #109 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST which this week sees Imran connect with 7th SENSE's founder, bassist and bandleader, Laura Benedek.

Preceded by two singles earlier this year in the brilliant 'Almost Five' and 'Wild Birds', Bucharest's 7th SENSE provided delectable glimpses into their fresh-faced and inspired interpretation of jazz in the run-up to 'Light in Chaos'.  Through band leader and bassist, Laura Benedek, the 7th SENSE collective are now able to present nine exquisite selections showcasing their expansive styles and disciplines across the ever-broadening scope of contemporary jazz.  While noted for their improvisational compositions, 7th SENSE also share a strong penchant for the infectious groove-based, neo-soul stylings that adorn the music throughout this incredible album.

We're overjoyed that Laura took the time to hang out with us and we hope you enjoy this episode where we discuss the new album, the obstacles that nearly prevented it from ever being released and Laura's affections for UK jazz.

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#109_Laura Benedek of 7th SENSE

'Handmade in Denmark' by Emil de Waal

'Handmade in Denmark' marks the rare opportunity to revisit the beginnings of Emil de Waal's quartet project with the official reissue of the group's inaugural release now available through April Records.

With 'Vente' - the sixth album from de Waal's close-knit collective - released in 2021, the prolific drummer and producer seeks to embrace the notion of his past releases being exposed to a larger audience via April Records' distinct perception of contemporary Danish jazz.  With a continually expanding range of phenomenal releases from the neo soul stylings of OTOOTO to the sublime sounds of Human Being Human or the warm and rich tones of trombonist Lis Wessberg, April Records are perfectly positioned to shine that light on de Waal's landmark projects ensuring it receives the level of care and respect it is due.  

Originally released independently in 2015 as a limited edition CD, de Waal's 'Handmade in Denmark' - as was performed by the original quartet line-up that featured himself on drums and percussion, Elith "Nulle" Nykjær on clarinet, Søren Kjærgaard on keyboards (who would later be replaced by Dan Hemmer) and Gustaf Ljunggren on guitars and saxophone - will now find itself released on vinyl for the first time.

If you're familiar with Emil de Waal's work to date, you'll be fully aware of his penchant to create progressive and forward-thinking jazz music that thrives upon the spirit of collaboration and a boundary-less amalgamation of styles.  To demonstrate the point, as part of the Kalaha quartet, de Waal and company have created inspired compositions over their two albums that incorporate Turkish and Middle Eastern influences to off-kilter jazz and 80s synthpop; Emil de Waal embraces that notion of exploration within one's own music in the same way but seeking inspiration from different sources.  

'Handmade in Denmark' pays subtle tributes to a multitude of styles: the album's title track issues twinges of country and folk in its make-up while 'Christiania' finds its joy in this delicious, almost moody, hip-hop swagger that would make revered producer and DJ, Madlib, enthusiastically nod along.  Ljunggren's banjo on 'Almerida' is almost playful which is in line with the nursery rhyme-esque opening interpretation of Simon & Garfunkel's 'The Sound of Silence'.  The latter, of course, serving as an excellent choice for a track to reimagine and one that is tackled brilliantly with its sombre venture into its perception of 'silence'.

For such dynamic and unhindered expressions of jazz music, de Waal's continually bold adventures are quite often made to look effortless as opposed to something that is meticulously and painstaking planned out and strategized.  Such a masterful grasp of music can really only come from an artist so secure and confident within their own message that it's the passion for the craft that ultimately carries them through.