'Crack Rock' by Crack Rock

'Crack Rock' is the new self-titled release from the eclectic pairing of singer-songwriter Anthony Mills alongside musician and producer Marek "Latarnik" Pędziwiatr exclusive to Astigmatic Records.

Initially seeking inspiration from the yacht rock stylings in the vein of The Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan, Mills and Pędziwiatr prove a pairing that could be described as much unexpected as it is eclectic with each artist having taken fascinating paths to bring them to this, their debut, release.  Despite experiencing something of a resurgence with recent releases from Emm Gryner ('Business & Pleasure') and even Pharrell Williams ('Black Yacht Rock') each continuing their own celebrations of the genre, Mills and Pędziwiatr's musical ambition seems to have propelled the duo into even more otherworldly musical experiences generating a truly compelling project.

Anthony Mills' diverse resume has found the US-born artist grace an inordinate amount of projects from the hip-hop icon KRS-One, the R&B songstress Leela James, UK rapper Ty alongside projects by a selection of Swedish artists - where Mills currently resides - including electro and house production duo Dada Life and Glam Sam & His Combo.  Mills' most notable success perhaps came in the form of 'Cookie Dough' which was released through Tru Thoughts Records and found Mills' vocal paired with Freddie Cruger's production under the Wildcookie banner.  A project that drew on an electro-inspired vision of hip-hop meeting neo-soul, Wildcookie was demonstrative of Mills consistent ability to adapt and evolve his sound - a technique expertly employed once again for Crack Rock alongside new collaborator, Pędziwiatr.

For Marek "Latarnik" Pędziwiatr, stepping outside of the box is certainly not a new string to his bow.  As a member of Astigmatic flagship collectives - EABS and Błoto - as well as frequent collaborators for Pakistan-based ensemble Jaubi and UK saxophonist Tenderlonious, Pędziwiatr has presented a multitude of varying facets to his music through projects that serve as homages to everything from golden era hip-hop to Polish heritage and Sun Ra.  A project like Crack Rock certainly positions Pędziwiatr in a compelling new setting but predictably it's one he continues to flourish within.

As cited earlier, yacht rock may have served as the initial inspiration for the album but the end-result is perhaps more aptly framed as an 80s, disco-inspired dancefloor sensation that sees each artist rewrite their own rule book.  And perhaps that's what 'Crack Rock' is - either the result of a very formulated, dynamic and intrinsically specific rule book or it's the complete absence of one.  A project that seems devoid of musical genres and restrictions opting for an unhindered perspective of collaboration under the nurturing confines of Astigmatic Records.

Anthony Mills' personality-driven and charismatic lyrics and overall presentation has found a veritably like-minded creator in Marek Pędziwiatr - his innovative sonic soundscapes afford such unrestricted freedom, it'll be fascinating to see how Crack Rock continue to evolve and develop over subsequent releases.

:n-the-m:x | March 2025

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 near 40-minute excursion from eclectic R&B, some left-of-centre jazz along with some dance and lush electronica selections to round out the mix.

Music this month comes courtesy of...

'Save Me' by Ben Blackadder

'Go My Way' by Franz Von (Bridge the Gap)

'Sticky Vibez' by Pvibez

'Smaller' by Georgie Sweet (First Word)

'Trust in this Life' by Rodina featuring Joe Tatton Trio & The Haggis Horns

'L'Ocean de Toi' by Lance Ferguson (Pacific Theatre)

'Absent, Detached' by Asta Hiroki & Tristan de Liege featuring Madeleine Rauch (Folded Music)

'Midnight Diner Curry' by Kalaido featuring Sam Miles

'Scarabocchio' by Matteo Pastorino (A.MA)

'Dig What I Say' by Tony Adamo

: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 round-UP ::: March 2025

'Big Visit' by Emma Rawicz & Gwilym Simcock

ACT are no stranger to the art of the duo album.  Having paired together some phenomenal talents for projects over the years - including Bill Laurance & Michael League ('Keeping Company'), Johanna Summer & Jakob Manz ('Cameo'), Jan Lundgren & Yamandu ('Inner Spirits') - the German label keeps their winning streak going for the pairing of pianist Gwilym Simcock alongside saxophonist Emma Rawicz for 'Big Visit'.  With the incredible distinction of releasing her third full-length album since 2022, Rawicz has proved something of an overnight sensation further boasting collaborations with Boreal Sun, Maria Grapsa Sextet and The Royal Academy Of Music Jazz Orchestra as well as scoring a clutch of awards and accolades that see her star continue to rise at an extraordinary rate.  

With roots within jazz as well as classical music, pianist Simcock has reached insurmountable heights during his lengthy career.  Whether the project finds him as one-half of a duo or as a key component of a big band ensemble, Simcock's indelible musical contributions have reached far and wide finding him having graced stages across the world alongside Pat Metheny, Linda Oh, Bobby McFerrin, Kenny Wheeler, amongst many others.

There's a nice divide over the album's six tracks with two compositions each penned by Rawicz and Simcock which feature snugly beside an exquisite take on 'Visions' by Stevie Wonder and Carl Fischer and Bill Carey's 'You've Changed', which was famously popularised by Billie Holiday.  As spirited as it is sublime, 'Big Visit' already delivers as a true standout amongst each artist's catalogue.

'Dancing With Embers' by Matt Carmichael

With a diverse array of artists waving the flag for Scottish artistry, Matt Carmichael - now having released his third full-length effort - enlists an array of top-tier talent for his impassioned 'Dancing With Embers'.  Having rocketed to success following the release of his first two albums, the saxophonist has become a pre-eminent face for the UK's contemporary jazz scene, and for an album which sounds as enchanting as the cover would suggest, Carmichael looks set to see even greater rewards with this go-round.  Embracing strong elements of Scottish folk music as an integral part of his compositions, Carmichael's sublime and spirited project ushers in a mish-mash of contemporary styles that are as imaginative as they are respectful of its past lineage.  

The revered pianist Fergus McCreadie features as part of Carmichael's core ensemble as does double-bassist Ali Watson (who is currently riding high following the recent release of his own project, 'Terrarium').  While singer-songwriter Rachel Sermanni dazzles with a sublime performance over 'Mangata' Carmichael's vision is very much the star here.  With compositions that play beautifully towards an affectionate and warm-hearted nostalgia - elegantly captured through the album's title track - the album proves to be as joyous as it is introspective.

'Dissolving Patterns' by Mathias Landæus, Nina de Heney and Kresten Osgood

The release of 'Dissolving Patterns' could respectfully be described as somewhat overdue. Having initially performed together back in 2013, the trio of Mathias Landæus, Nina de Heney and Kresten Osgood have always affectionately called back to their distinctive chemistry whenever they were able to perform together. It's certainly a testament to their collaborative energy as each artist can boast a multitude of projects bearing their exalted efforts. Swedish pianist Mathias Landæus holds the proud distinction of helming over twenty albums as a bandleader along with boasting an even lengthier list of projects that have recruited his exquisite skills over the years.  You could immerse yourself for days with the litany of projects drummer Kresten Osgood has accumulated via his Bandcamp page, from the high octane hip-hop of 'I Love Lucie Baines' to the off-kilter electro-dance of 'NICE OXY'.  And then there's the music of bassist Nina de Heney whose explorations in solo bass prove a musical marvel, as evidenced through the 28-minute improvised piece 'two' or the collaborative release with Lina Järnegard, 'Solo Piece for Peace, Please'.  

Each artist's affection for improvisation seem to serve as their individual and unifying force for their trio's formation and for 'Dissolving Patterns'.  A project that was recorded in Gothenburg in November 2023 and now released exactly as it was recorded - an enthralling mix of composition and improvisation.

'Liminality' by Broodmen

Serbian jazz has risen to prominence in exceptional levels over the last few years with artists like the Majamisty Trio, saxophonist Sanja Markovic and flautist Milena Jancuric waving the flag for the hot-bed of musical talent that the country has become.  Now with the release of their sophomore full-length project, Broodmen look set to continue in their efforts to elevate Serbian jazz to even greater heights.  Comprised of guitarist Dragan Alimpijević Pik, drummer Zoltán Simon and Lazar Novkov on the accordion, the Broodmen offer an exciting contribution to Serbian jazz by spearheading their multi-faceted sound.  

Initially introduced via their debut album 'Secondary Emotions' in 2017, the band's ambitious free-wheeling and no rules approach was established at the outset and carried over to inspired effect six years later through the respectfully overdue, 'Liminality'.

Over the course of the album's ten tracks, the trio relish the creativity afforded to them through tracks that embrace a high-octane rock-like aesthetic as evidenced in 'Through the Woods', the bluesy psychedelic nature of 'Rumenka Blues' or the more meditative approach adopted in 'Still Standing'. 

Sounds of Deepness featuring Marcus Baram

Blue-in-Green:RADIO is proud to present December 2024's edition of Jason Charles' Sounds of Deepness.  Typically airing Mondays at 10pm (UK), this episode featured an exclusive interview and guest mix from DJ, journalist and author, Marcus Baram.

Broadcasting from New York City, Jason has cultivated an incredible path through extensive live sets and a wealth of radio experience including stints at East Village Radio and guest spots at New York's WBAI-FM and Portland's WMPG. As founder of the podcast network, JasonCharles.Net, the DJ and broadcaster has championed a host of music, arts and lifestyle shows that cultivate thoughts and ideas from across the world.

We'd also like to extend an extra special thanks to today's guest - Marcus Baram.  While an expert on economic policy and writer for The New York Times, The Atlantic, Huff Post and Vice, Marcus is also the author of 'Gil Scott-Heron: Pieces of a Man', a phenomenal read that delves deep into the icon that is Scott-Heron charting his early days in Chicago, his difficulties with addiction and subsequent redemption, and of course the legendary music that will define his legacy for countless generations to follow. 

Please visit the following link for more details on 'Gil Scott-Heron: Pieces of a Man' and to pick up your copy from Amazon.

Another huge thanks to Jason and Marcus and we really hope everyone listening back to this fantastic Sounds of Deepness episode. 

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Sounds of Deepness w/Jason Charles featuring Marcus Baram

'Def Radio' by Visioneers

Much has been made about revered classics by James Brown, Curtis Mayfield, Bob James and Isaac Hayes, amongst countless others, serving as sources of inspiration for a range of 90s hip-hop DJs and producers.  Celebrated icons of the genre including Pete Rock, Jay Dee, DJ Premier and Erick Sermon would go on to recontextualise their music and subsequently repackaging them for an all-new generation of music fan. 

Naturally, this conversation dates back to an era of sampling before legislation had come into force so it was understandable for artists to not be thrilled at hearing their music employed in ways that was tantamount to theft; but hip-hop's use of sampling could very much be argued to have given back to artists in ways perhaps people never fully realised.  For devoted fans who had become accustomed to trawling through the inlay cards of albums to pick out names of collaborators and producers of tracks, their path would inevitably lead them to those very architects whose music formed the basis of tracks all of those years later.  For a generation of music fan, hip-hop's greatest gift was the introduction of those aforementioned soul legends but also the introduction to jazz via the works of Roy Ayers, Bobby Hutcherson, Donald Byrd and Ronnie Laws.

Conversely, hip-hop's impact on music post the 1980s and certainly the 1990s has perhaps never truly been quantified either.  As a genre that had reached international acclaim by the 90s' golden era, it had become a style of music and culture that would impact people as individuals whose affections for the genre would become as interwoven within the fabric of their childhood as the films they watched and the video games they played.  Further to that however, for many artists hip-hop would prove to be as impactful an influence on the music they would go on to make in their own right as well, leaving an indelible mark on everything from soul (and the rise of neo-soul), jazz, soul, funk, electronic and even rock music.

'Def Radio', as with past Visioneers releases, taps into those moments of nostalgic bliss as music from A Tribe Called Quest, Gang Starr, The Pharcyde and Method Man would form the backdrop of our teenage years as we fell in love with a genre of music that was still in many ways discovering itself and its own potential.

Through the phenomenal talents of Marc Mac, 'Def Radio' serves as our imaginative portal ushering us back in time to revisit those key and milestone moments of hearing 'Electric Relaxation', 'One Love' or '93 til Infinity' for the first time.  Tracks that have gone on to shape generations of hip-hop fans and creatives for more than thirty years.

As one half of the ground-breaking broken beat and electronic music duo 4 Hero alongside Denis "Dego" McFarlane, Mark "Marc Mac" is in no way a stranger to creating music that has forged its path.  A brand that has generated an obscene amount of music including full-length albums, EPs and remixes, whether together or as individual artists in their own right, the 4 Hero name carries as much weight today as any that could be held up against it.

Mac's cultivation of the Visioneers project as an ongoing series has generated some enthralling reinterpretations of hip-hop classics with 'Def Radio' perhaps standing tall as the definitive benchmark going forward.  

With Marc Mac credited to a full arsenal of instrumentation throughout the album including Rhodes, percussion, bass guitar, sitar, Solina strings, upright bass, Moog, piano and synths, an additional ensemble are recruited to help breath inspired new perspectives into established treasures.  Luke Parkhouse provides stellar accompaniment throughout the album primarily on drums while Carina Andersson soars over sublime soul of 'Hurt So Bad'.

Resisting the temptation to run through the entire track list and spoil the surprises, the album works best when taking the plunge and experiencing those Eureka moments as a part of the 'Def Radio' listening adventure.  It won't come as a spoiler however to site 'Def Radio' as a joyous and sensational record though and one that elevates Marc Mac into an even higher esteem... which we didn't think was even possible.

'Heavy Drops' by Adam Ben Ezra

The latest release from Adam Ben Ezra sees the musician and composer continuing his adventures with the double-bass as 'Heavy Drops' represents some of his most inspired efforts to date.

Originally from Tel Aviv but now residing in Portugal, Ben Ezra boasts a series of dynamic and versatile albums that continue to place the double-bass front & centre.  With fascinating and intriguing ensembles with each go-round, Ben Ezra's commitment to exploring the instrument amongst a variety of settings has resulted in some enthralling projects and innumerable successes.

Each of Ben Ezra's releases showcase a variety of settings unique to that project - whether we find Ben Ezra performing very much as a one-man band, as is the case for his Ropeadope Records release, 'Pin Drop' (2017), or as part of a trio arrangement alongside percussionist Gilad Dobrecky and guitarist Adam Ben Amitai, Ben Ezra continually finds innovative ways to intersperse his evolving narrative as part of the music's make-up.

Even as a multi-faceted musician, across Ben Ezra releases to date, his boundless talents have been credited to double-bass, piano, keyboards, oud, flute, clarinet, melodica, percussion, beatbox and his signature Flamenco footwork which serves as its own percussive layer for his music.  

So much of Ben Ezra's intentions rest within striking those connections with listeners - through the intricate compositions that form the make-up of his full-length releases to the litany of videos that comprise his YouTube channel which include a variety of live performances as well as a series of endearing cover versions of songs with everything open to the Ben Ezra treatment - Michael Jackson's 'Billie Jean', David Bowie's 'The Man Who Sold the World' along with themes to popular TV shows from Mad Men, South Park and a bassist's dream in Seinfeld.

'Heavy Drops' once again finds Adam Ben Ezra seeking to recontextualize the double-bass this time alongside the efforts of drummer Michael Olivera.  A celebrated musician in his own right, the Cuban drummer has leant his talents to a wide variety of artists and ensembles including the Daniel Garcia Trio, the Maureen Choi Quartet, the Alfredo Rodriguez Trio and Ganavya.

Over the course of the ten tracks that comprise 'Heavy Drops', the duo work fantastically well together injecting real passion and vigour into the music conveying the energy of a full live band through tracks like 'Heavy Drops', 'Play it Cool' and 'Escape Route' which really capture the scintillating chemistry between Ben Ezra and Olivera.  With the roots of the music here stemming from the duo's live sessions over the course of three days, Ben Ezra later revisited the recordings with the intention of shaping the music into the versions presented on the album.  The end result reveals the inspired and innovative vision typical for Ben Ezra projects and delivers one of his most auspicious outings yet.

'Heavy Drops' seems to relish the versatility of a creative space somewhere between free jazz and 90s hip-hop resulting in a thrilling endorsement for contemporary jazz and Adam Ben Ezra's continued musical explorations.

'Push & Pull' by Taber Gable

'Push & Pull' marks the latest release from pianist and vocalist Taber Gable whose new project finds its home on La Reserve Records.

With some years having passed since Gable's 2020 debut, fans of 'Hidden Driveways' will undoubtedly relish Gable's return to centre stage through the release of his sophomore outing.  Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, but now representing the thriving jazz community of New York City, the time in between projects has certainly been productive.

A highly educated artist and musician, Gable can boast the distinction of having graduated from the prestigious Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz as well as the revered Juilliard School.  And aside from his own releases, Gable has been able to cultivate an auspicious reputation through some notable collaborations that represent thrilling and imaginative voices in contemporary jazz including Trevor Lawrence Jr's 'Relationships' (2017), Andromeda Turre's 'Shine' (2019), EJ Strickland Quintet's 'Warriors for Peace' (2018) and Kenneth Brown's 'Love People' (2021), amongst a litany of other recording and live performances.

Gable's own all-encompassing perspectives have managed to connect with both audiences and peers alike, all resonating with the pianist's progressive take on jazz.  A melting pot of styles in its own right, Gable's output - as exemplified through his two album releases to date - have proved inspired concoctions of gospel (as gleaned from his early years performing in church), neo-soul as well as homages to his own jazz and musical inspirations.

'Push & Pull' serves as a nine track release that delivers a blissful extension to much of the groundwork and ideologies established through 'Hidden Driveways'.  Alongside Gable who tackles piano, rhodes, synthesizers and vocals, the album's core unit is further comprised of guitarist Andrew Renfroe and drummer Jonathan Barber, with the former having served as guitarist for Gable's debut as well.  

Presenting a delectable fusion of jazz sensibilities alongside R&B-inspired grooves, Gable totally soars as the project's frontman and band leader, understating his role sometimes while comfortably adorning the personification otherwise.  A simmering intro sashays into a more charged 'Ode to Fallen Heroes' which sets an intriguing pace for the album as a whole.  The neo-soul stylings of the album's title track marks another notable high point with Gable's sublime vocal fully on display, and then there's the instrumental, synth-based treasure that is 'OMW' which is as engaging as it is infectious.  

For those that continue to be enamoured by the productions of the late, great James Yancey, 'Somethin 4 Dilla' hits as a fitting nod to not just his overall brilliance but to his indelible impact on artists, musicians and producers who continue to find inspiration through his timeless music.

'Push & Pull' proves a sensational release to further chart the ongoing musical adventures of Taber Gable - an immeasurably talented artist whose star will undeniably continue to shine through his burgeoning efforts as a performer, creator and collaborator.  

'Leaf Out' by JATOBA

'Leaf Out' finally brings to the life the long-gestating project from vocalist Régine Lanoir and DJ/producer A Cat Called Fritz under the collective name, JATOBA.

JATOBA's versatile interpretation of hip-hop-inspired neo-soul aptly finds its home on the French label, A Night on Canopy, who have long gifted listeners with a thrilling depiction of contemporary hip-hop-tinged projects from a dream line-up of musical creatives.  With some genuinely exciting releases like Dre Trav's 'Omnipresent' two-track release, the sixteen-minute improvisation of 'Innervisions (Holy Smoke)' by Michael Vigneron and Feather Phaser, the beautifully-composed treasure that is 'A Sad Love Song (Wadiya's Song)' by Mumia Abu-Jamal, Alain Jean-Marie and Morena Fattorini, and of course either of the full-length gems from producer As Valet ('Canne à Sucre' and 'Inner Journey') which would go on to lay the groundwork for his own Oioji Records.

The pairing of Lanoir alongside Fritz delivers a project that sits incredibly high amongst Canopy's catalogue.  The always elusive Fritz has cultivated a loyal following thanks in part to the litany of music he has unveiled over the years which range from standalone singles, mixtapes and full-length projects, all showcasing his devotion to golden era hip-hop as much as his devotion to the jazz that provided just as much inspiration.  As a result, Fritz's productions have garnered him an enthralling signature sound that, in the case of 'Leaf Out', provides a captivating and intricate soundscape for Lanoir to continue constructing in her own inimitable way.  

Lanoir's boundless artistic endeavours find her talents employed in a variety of ways - from helming much of the project's artwork for Oioji Records, the singer and songwriter has further graced a variety of projects with her sublime vocal including projects by Mauvais Zèbres ('Libre Échange') and appearing on another Canopy release of this year 'Quiet' from beatmaker Breiss' 'The Indian Bird'.   

With 'I Follow' having been released in late 2023, the album's lead single set expectations very high for the full-length which finally finds its way to listeners via Canopy's hallowed halls.  Over the course of the project's thirteen tracks, the JATOBA duo present a range of songs that capture their dynamic chemistry and affection for dynamic collaboration.  Standouts like the meditative 'We Walk Alone', the dreamy 'I Follow', the infectious bounce of 'Mundane Ritual' and the lush club aesthetic of 'Solar Game', courtesy of The Catillac Cats remix.

We've previously highlighted the incredible releases that A Night On Canopy already has on display and 'Leaf Out' definitively delivers as a fantastic album ranking highly amidst their releases to date.  The pairing of Lanoir and A Cat Called Fritz have delivered a project that was absolutely worth the wait and is demonstrative of their limitless potential as JATOBA and as solo artists in their own right.