:n-the-m:x | June 2024

Welcome to our monthly mix series with each episode spotlighting 10 tracks that we were particularly excited about across various shows on Blue-in-Green:RADIO. This month showcases a selection providing a 45 minute excursion from eclectic R&B to some left-field jazz and lush electronica selections.

Music this month comes courtesy of... 

'Part of Me' by Flo Perlin featuring Kaidi Akinnibi

'Undercover Lover' by Qendresa & Jamma-Dee (Extra Soul Perception)

'Closer(2U)' by Lovemuscle

'My Favourite Song' [Quiet Dawn Remix] by Ruby Wood (First Word Records)

'Terre de Champions' by Eugene Neighbrs (Oioji Records)

'Kaugummi' by KAU (Sdban Records)

'Daddy's Gonna Tell You No Lie' by Laraaji & Kronos Quartet (Red Hot Org)

'Hope' by Space Travelers Union (Most Least)

'Velvet Rope' [Goodmood Flip] by Goodmood (Energy Exchange Records)

'Eternal Return' by Socool (Bathurst)

:n-the-m:x is exclusive to our Mixcloud channel so be sure to check back at the end of every month for future round-ups.

New Jazz RoundUP

'From Dust' by Steven Nichols

London's Ubuntu Music have long waved the flag for innovative UK jazz talent and over the years have accumulated a phenomenal catalogue of releases from contemporary luminaries like Camilla George, Mark Kavuma, Quentin Collins and Andrew McCormack, naming just a few.  Steven Nichols adds his name to a list of burgeoning talent all poised to leave their indelible mark on the UK's continually thriving scene.  'From Dust' serves as the debut full-length for Ubuntu from the trumpeter and is demonstrative of all the promise and plaudits his abilities have garnered to date.  Performing alongside his long-standing collaborators and some incredible musicians in Charlie Rees (saxophone), Reuben Goldmark (piano), John Jones (bass) and Amund Kleppan (drums), 'From Dust' is more than just an introduction to the boundless talents of Nichols as a performer and a bandleader, but an album charting his own experiences about life, hope and faith.  'From Dust' is an album that continues in the vein of Ubuntu's rich musical lineage and also an album that serves as the genesis for Nichols' own as well.

'Fire øjne' by Emil de Waal

Emil de Waal has long established a career built upon his passion for creating progressive and forward-thinking music that thrives upon the spirit of collaboration and a boundary-less amalgamation of styles.  As a member of the hugely versatile Danish Kalaha quartet, de Waal & company have created inspired compositions over their releases that incorporate a range of varying styles from Turkish and Middle Eastern influences to off-kilter jazz and 80s synthpop. Projects outside of Kalaha however still find de Waal celebrating that notion of exploration through a fearless fusion of unhindered styles which still proves very much to be at the forefront of his agenda.  Emil de Waal's prolific output has seen the drummer, percussionist, guitarist and composer collaborate with numerous artists for full-length releases including Saxofon, Gustaf Ljunggren and also head up his own Vente quartet.  For 'Fire øjne', de Waal engages his collaborators to join him through a series of duo recordings across the project's ten tracks with some excellent names from the April Records roster including Fredrik Lundin, Rasmus Oppenhagen and Cecilie Strange.

'WAW!' by Carl Winther, Richard Andersson & Jeff 'Tain' Watts

'WAW!' marks the debut release of the dynamic new trio comprised of US drummer Jeff 'Tain' Watts alongside Danish musicians Carl Winther on piano and Richard Andersson on double-bass.  Released through Hobby Horse Records, each of the MAW members have accumulated extensive backgrounds in both performance and collaboration with Winther, Andersson and Watts having worked with leading names from both the US and Danish jazz scenes.  Carl Winther helms compositional duties for four of the album's five tracks, providing elegant and spirited backdrops that still generously afford its players the freedom to embrace their improvisational tendencies and leave their own distinguishable contributions.  The album also boasts a cover of the definitive jazz standard 'My Old Flame' - originally unveiled in 1934 by Mae West and Duke Ellington - the version presented here is a sublime and affectionate nod to the brilliance of the original but still demonstrates the creativity of the WAW ensemble.

'Creatures' by Pohem

The debut release from Pohem is a genuinely transcendent listen with the French trio as committed to creating as much of a spiritual experience for its listener as an aural one.  With Pohem initially forming in 2019, the trio have spent years honing their respective crafts as well as refining how they each play together.  Openly professing their music as an exploratory process, 'Creatures' relishes its place within the sublime, boasting twinges of a neo-classical aesthetic beautifully working alongside traditional jazz sensibilities.  The trio consists of Charline DeMatteo (vocals and piano), Benoist Foulonneau (horns) and Thomas Krzyzaniak (bass) who impart their shared musical vision across the album's seven original compositions.  With some undeniable high points across the project, 'Imparfaits' may well serve as the ultimate gem of the project - beautifully composed, elegantly performed and showcasing a wonderful vocal from DeMatteo, the track is again a wonderful symptom of the vast scope undertaken by Pohem. 

'Beyond Motion' by Katarina Kochetova

'Beyond Motion' marks the debut full-length from the imagination of pianist, Katarina Kochetova, making her introductions by way of the Italian label, A.MA Records.

And what an introduction!  Kochetova's album - which also sees the gifted artist helm composition duties for the project - showcases her innate ability to create beautiful pieces of music presenting the rich elegance of neo-classical inspirations while still serving as inspired celebrations of contemporary and free jazz.

As a highly educated and decorated artist, Kochetova has been steadily honing her craft for some years now.  As a bandleader and frequent collaborator to a multitude of artists and musicians, Kochetova's expedition into her own connection with jazz has seen her continue to embrace her education, now on the cusp of securing a Masters of Music in Vienna, as well as grace stages across Europe.  In fact, hers is something of a voracious touring schedule having chalked up nearly a hundred dates in 2023 alone with performances in jazz clubs and festivals across Vienna, Barcelona and Stockholm.

Whether under the guise of her trio arrangement or the more expansive Katerina Kochetova Quintet, the pianist seems to continue to relish the concept of exploration in her music be it through writing, collaboration or performing.  With such pure-of-heart intentions, the stage is set for a thoughtful and inspired project in 'Beyond Motion' that takes tremendous creative strides alongside some phenomenally-talented musicians.

Joining Kochetova on piano, the core trio for 'Beyond Motion' is further comprised of double bassist Hugo Lof and drummer Matheus Jardim, with guest saxophonists Jure Pukl and Joander Cruz each appearing on two tracks apiece.  The music across the album's ten tracks is really sensationally brought to life through impassioned performances that really showcase the best of the project's contributors.  From the sublime gems like 'Directions (In Time)' and 'Eternal Goodbyes' to the more spirited 'Holmstock' or the brilliant intricacies of the album highlight 'UntitEled#4', Kochetova masterfully leads the way for a fantastic album that bursts with inspiration and creativity.

It is a shame that 'Beyond Motion' doesn't take the opportunity to showcase Katarina Kochetova's talents as a stunning vocalist in her own right and I would encourage you to look up the elegant 'Goodbye My Love' from 2016 on YouTube which pairs Kochetova on vocals and piano alongside bassist Miloš Čolović.  A beautiful song.

'Beyond Motion' delivers as a fascinating and engaging step within Katarina Kochetova's ongoing journey into jazz's intricate musical make-up.  And what will make this journey forever engaging to listeners going forward is Kochetova's complete understanding that as in most great stories, the spoils aren't always found in the destination but in the journey itself.  And for this entry into Kochetova's journey that is being recounted throughout 'Beyond Motion', you'll find an absolute joy.

'Wouj Vè Nwè Dialektics' by Eugene Neighbrs

Oioji Records were very clear at their inception about the importance of culture and heritage, and the impact those key characteristics would have on their music going forward.  To know where you're going, you have to know where you've been and "where you've been" has helped to form much of the label's over-arching message and focus.

Even on projects pre-Oioji, label founder As Valet consistently took the time to express his devotion to 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 his releases 'Inner Journey' and 'Canne à Sucre' make for an incredible journey that absolutely pays respects to the music and culture's lineage while also empowering As Valet to decidedly look forward to create with confidence.

Since Oioji, however, La Martinique has continued to weigh heavily over the label's releases.  Most recently, Queen Ci unveiled a fantastic project in 'Creole Lightening EP vol​.​1' which sought to pay loving homage to the life of Creole icon, Cécile Jean-Louis.  As a singer, songwriter and actress, Jean-Louis was highly regarded as a trailblazer who was revered for persevering down the untraveled road, paving the way for her culture.

The latest Oioji release, helmed by Eugene Neighbrs, still addresses home with an unwavering affection but this time the producer uses 'Wouj Vè Nwè Dialektics' to address the French Caribbean with the intention to inspire change within a socio and political context. 

The ten-track release serves as a fascinating and engaging statement of intent brought to life through a variety of different musical ideals that place listeners within the heart of La Martinique.  Neighbrs confidently navigates a fascinating musical path that fuses those traditional Caribbean styles with hip-hop production and deep house-inspired compositions.  The tribal rhythms of 'Pwofitasyon', the sublime soundscape of the As Valet-assisted 'Bèl Komba' and the moody dancefloor gem 'Wav'Em' all serve as highlights throughout a sensational release.

Once again, we remain captivated by the Oioji team - their passion, consideration and overall fantastic music continue to showcase an evolving and sensational body of music.

'You'll Need This Later' by Alvin Cobb Jr

Alvin Cobb Jr makes his official introduction to audiences by way of his fantastic debut album, 'You'll Need This Later'.

The Atlanta-born and Chicago-based drummer and composer has steadily been amassing his credentials for years - an in-demand collaborator as well as having graced stages across the US and the UK, the stars have finally aligned allowing Cobb himself to assume centre stage presenting his impassioned perspective on jazz.

And it's certainly an impassioned perspective and one that is bolstered by the album's inspired messages throughout of love, hope, loss and identity.  'You'll Need This Later' is beautifully composed and elegantly performed by the Alvin Cobb Jr Trio - further comprised of bassist and vocalist Katie Ernst and pianist Julius Tucker.   

Cobb's music is ultimately the product of his varied make-up as a multi-faceted artist in every sense of the word.  His skills as a photographer and film score composer, notwithstanding his heralded collaborations alongside movement artist Ashwaty Chennat, present Cobb as an encompassing storyteller.  'You'll Need This Later' benefits from this unhindered, sincere and broad perspective on music that ultimately relishes the notion of collaboration across the album's thirteen tracks.

Beyond the tracks that make up the album, Alvin Cobb's YouTube page provides some excellent content most notably showcasing some intimate recordings of Cobb, Ernst and Tucker tackling a range of contemporary classics including Andre 3000's 'Prototype', Little Dragon's 'Twice' and Christian Scott's 'Sunrise in Beijing' each performed with such care and intimacy that would be a genuine treat to be able to witness in person.

While Ernst delivers a sensational performance as the project's chief vocalist, 'You'll Need This Later' does benefit further from appearances by Nola Adé, Nashon Holloway and Manasseh who inject scintillating spirit into already magnificent compositions.  Tracks like 'Before You Go', 'Thought I Wanted', 'Love You With All My Hate' and 'Window' deliver as thrilling standouts for the album's leading highlights.  Additional credit should go to Aaron Day who serves as the trio's floating fourth on tracks throughout thanks to his work on guitars, synths and percussion.

There is clearly a long and fruitful career laying ahead of Alvin Cobb Jr and his trio but there should similarly be no doubt that 'You'll Need This Later' is an album people will be coming back to for years.

Blue-in-Green:PODCAST #136: Edy Forey

Welcome to Episode #136 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST which this week sees Imran connect with the Edinburgh-based duo, Edy Forey, to discuss their sensational debut album, 'Culture Today'.

Ultimately coming to the table from vastly different musical backgrounds, Polish-born singer-songwriter Edy Szewy and Parisian pianist Guilhem Forey were able to find common ground through each of their unwavering passions for music.  With Szewy predominately influenced by neo-soul and hip-hop, and Forey a devoted jazz fan, their combined efforts resulted in a sublime sonic palette that paid due praise to each's musical affections.

'Culture Today' showcases an inspired perspective on contemporary jazz-inspired neo-soul and is a project bolstered by some incredible guests including Ezra Collective's Femi Koleoso and Snarky Puppy's Michael League and Mark Lettieri.  The album boasts the added distinction of Bob Power's studio wizardry throughout.

We were thrilled to spend time with Edy and Guilhem to discuss how they met, the creative process, 'Culture Today' and navigating the music industry as independent artists.

For more details on Edy Forey, please visit her website below:

https://www.edyforey.com/

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#136_Edy Forey

International Jazz Day 2024 on Blue-in-Green:RADIO

For this year's International Jazz Day - Sunday 30th April 2024 - we were incredibly proud to present an extra special series of shows to celebrate our unwavering affections for the genre with the team showcasing new and innovative global jazz music and artists while paying homage to the genre's icons, architects and labels.

You can now catch-up on every show we aired for the day via the following links and re-live the celebrations at your leisure.  We'd like to extend a massive thank you to the phenomenal Blue-in-Green:RADIO team who went above and beyond, delivering some spectacular shows!

Yve's Joy (& Jazz) ::: A sublime mix showcasing some exquisite contemporary covers of jazz classics including inspired interpretations by #MajamistyTriO #JuliaBiel #MarkDeCliveLowe #YazzAhmed #JoelRoss #NEXTCollective #ShabakaHutchings #JoeLocke #DrLonnieSmith #NicolaConte all paying homage to #DukeEllington #PharoahSanders #MeshellNdegeocello #TimmyThomas and more...

The Illicit Grooves Radio Show ::: For the DJ, presenter and podcaster, Bob Hill's discernible talents and invaluable perspective find the perfect home with the illustrious Illicit Grooves Radio Show which we take great pride in being able to host every Sunday 1-3pm. Music on today's show focuses on new, recent and future releases with selections from #AjaMonet #LindaTillery #SarahWebsterFabio #RoyAyers #JoeArmonJones #EzraCollective #AnthonyJoseph.

Cosmic Radio ::: The boundless talents of DJ, producer, solo artist and now head of Oioji Records, As Valet's distinct ear for incredible soul, jazz & hip-hop has the perfect showcase through Cosmic Radio and it's an incredibly special show today courtesy of #billygaultwhendestinycalls #steeplechaserecords #listenrecords + more.

Futuristica Radio ::: As head of Futuristica Music, Simon S has been DJ-ing, producing and releasing music for almost 30 years. An incredible artist in his own right, Simon's eye for talent has helped to bring prominence to many of Futuristica's phenomenal label line-up but also helped to make Futuristica Radio a compulsory listening experience. Today is for the "jazz headz"!

We were thrilled to showcase an exclusive conversation with the amazing Amanda Whiting. The revered UK harpist is currently riding high from a slew of recent releases including 'The Liminality of Her', 'Beyond the Midnight Sun' with Don Leisure and the remix EP 'Lost in Abstraction Remixes'; the show features music from each of these projects which we also discuss along with Amanda's overall journey to jazz.

UK Vibe ::: Typically, Steve Williams showcases two hours of his stunning selections of music basking in the brilliance of contemporary jazz to world fusion and electronica - nicely rounding up some of the fantastic albums reviewed on ukvibe.org over the last few weeks.

Blue-in-Green Sessions ::: Imran Mirza's picks showcased a selection of artists who manage to exquisitely merge contemporary jazz with electronica & hip-hop pioneering a new direction for the genre going forward. Music comes courtesy of #TheNightServiceCommute #BenjaminSamuels #Mxmrys #Yarni #MattWilde #NaturalLateral #Jazzbois #MAGRO #CortLunde #PS5 + more...

Twistedsoul ::: Colin Smith gives us an extra special insight in to the delectable selections that comprise his Twistedsoul tonight with music covering a broad sonic palette including cosmic soul, jazz fusion, ambient folk and left-field hip-hop. Amongst many of the gems featured on tonight's show are tracks by #MatthewHalsall #NalaSinephro #divr #AncientInfinityOrchestra #ZacColwell #CassieKinoshi #IllConsidered #SamGendel #JaimieBranch #TheStanceBrothers #OnLy

:n-the-m:x | May 2024

Welcome to our monthly mix series with each episode spotlighting 10 tracks that we were particularly excited about across various shows on Blue-in-Green:RADIO. This month showcases a selection providing a 45 minute excursion from eclectic R&B to some lush electronica selections.

Music this month comes courtesy of... 

'Oceans' by Chiminyo

'Taking Off' by Leona Berlin

'Eclectic Soul' by DEADDREAM

'Phases of the Moon' by Sun Atlas (Mocambo Records)

'Eleven Changes' by Shljuka Quintet (A.MA Records)

'After the Rain' by Emily Francis Trio

'Rock the Boat' by L3Ni

'Karang Sari' [Lehto Remix] by Wilhelm Richard (Bathurst)

'Kat' by Socool & Ireless (Dragon Trax)

'Misie Michel' by Queen Ci (Oioji Records)

:n-the-m:x is exclusive to our Mixcloud channel so be sure to check back at the end of every month for future round-ups.