'Reverie' by Stefan Sirbu

Celebrating the release of his new project, 'Reverie', pianist Stefan Sirbu paints an exquisite sonic landscape alongside some venerable collaborators for his sophomore album release.

The Moldova-born and German-based musician certainly delivered an impassioned statement of intent following the release of his 'Autumn Whispers' debut in 2021.  A warmly-received project that displayed Sirbu's affections for performing alongside somewhat unexpected and international performers with 'Autumn Whispers' boasting collaborations with guitarist Fabio Gouvêa and drummer Paulo Almeida from Brazil and double-bassist Roberto Koch from Venezuela.

A storyteller at heart, Sirbu's music displays a variety of interwoven narratives - a technique that worked wonders for 'Autumn Whispers' but reaches transcendent levels for 'Reverie'.  An album that was envisaged to serve as something of a day dreamers' soliloquy, 'Reverie' exists within those moments of reflection and meditation - an abstract divinity that finds you staring aimlessly out of the train window during the morning commute or succumbing to the tiredness of the day's work stresses as the allure of home draws you ever closer.  It's a rare and magical moment of quiet solace that can take you to the bliss of last night's intimacy or to the lament of what could have been.

'Reverie' is brought to life by an all new and equally dynamic selection of collaborators in the New York-based ensemble including saxophonist Julieta Eugenio, double-bassist Clovis Nicolas and drummer Anthony Pinciotti.  It was having seen the trio perform as part of a quarantined online performance that brought Sirbu to their attention ultimately leading to 'Reverie'.  Sadly the album also serves as something of a swansong for drummer Pinciotti who passed away not long after the album's completion making the beauty of 'Reverie' a fitting commemoration to the talented musician's own legacy.

Across the album's seven ethereal compositions, Stefan Sirbu and company do immaculate justice to the album's concept through a series of original, Sirbu-penned compositions that display an undeniable joy within their presentation.  While an album that openly embraces its influences and inspirations - from Coltrane to Bach - the project still resonates as deeply personal to the pianist and band leader as 'Elsa au Miroir' is revisited from 'Autumn Whispers' and 'V.S.T. (Valse Sans Titre)' is a piece composed by Sirbu over twenty years ago.     

Once again Stefan Sirbu creates a timeless piece of music within a burgeoning catalogue of beautiful releases.  As humbly surmised by Sirbu at the conclusion of the album's inlay card, all that remains is to… "Enjoy the music".

Blue-in-Green:PODCAST #143: Zola Marcelle

Welcome to Episode #143 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST which this week sees Imran connect with singer, songwriter and producer, Zola Marcelle.

Following a string of standalone single and EP releases dating back to 2018, the multi-faceted Zola Marcelle releases her debut full-length album entitled 'Home' unveiled through the hallowed walls of London's Jazz Re:freshed.  Adding her name to the revered Jazz Re:freshed lineage which includes Kaidi Tatham, Nubya Garcia and Richard Spaven, Zola's exceptional credentials to date have seen past collaborations alongside Daniel Casimir and Ashley Henry as well as having secured coveted touring duties alongside Myele Manzanza.

'Home' serves as an inspired depiction of Zola's creative peak to date - a fascinating and compelling portrayal of an artist examining the concept of "home" as an individual as well as an ideology within a greater tapestry of culture and heritage.

We're so appreciative of Zola's time for this conversation which sees us delve into her career to date, the ideas and inspirations that brought 'Home' to fruition, the album's incredible supporting cast including Lewis Moody and Rudi Creswick, Jazz Re:freshed and London's thriving jazz landscape.

To grab your own slice of 'Home', please feel free to visit the album's Bandcamp page here.

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#143_Zola Marcelle

'Lightside' by Matteo Pastorino

'Lightside' marks the introduction of bass clarinettist Matteo Pastorino and his quartet as part of the bustling A.MA Records roster.

A.MA have consistently provided a platform for a range of dynamic jazz talent with musicians presenting their debut solo offerings as the first step within their burgeoning musical journey to more experienced artists who have cultivated lengthy and fruitful careers before arriving to A.MA.  In the case of Matteo Pastorino, his extensive accolades would certainly place him within the latter category as the highly decorated performer and composer can lay claim to a multitude of successes to date.

Even prior to the release of Pastorino's debut album - 'V' (Absilone/Socadisc, 2014) - the musician could boast a clutch of awards to his name including the Young Talent Prix at the 2012 Saint Germain des Pres Jazz Festival along with the Selmer Prize as Best Soloist.  Pastorino would continue to amass greater awards and distinctions as the years progressed including his sophomore album release, 'Suite for Modigliani' (Challenge Records, 2017), which saw Pastorino collaborate with world renowned, US-based guitarist, Gilad Hekselman for an elegant homage to the music of Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani.

As a virtuoso in his own right, a composer and band leader, Pastorino's talents have been fully on display via his own projects but his desire to continually create and perform have seen him further grace studios and stages alongside the immeasurable talents of Julian Getreau Quartet, Nicola Andrioli Fourth Stream Ensemble, Emanuele Filippi and Mauro Gargano.

An in-demand and boundlessly talented musician and collaborator, the release of 'Lightside' comes as a great win for A.MA as their celebration of Italian and European jazz continues to lead them to some wonderfully inspired places and projects.

'Lightside' finds Pastorino in fine company as his bass clarinet is joined throughout the album by Domenico Sanna on piano, Dario Deidda on bass and Armando Luongo on drums.  The quartet perform with such a compelling intimacy that breeds phenomenal results, exemplified beautifully in the album opener, 'Gorèe' - an engaging yet understated opening number that relishes within its slow build before teaming with life by the song's climax.  Conversely, 'Coming Back' warrants special mention for its effervescent swing from the unified performances that still boast some excellent solos throughout the track's near-eight-minute runtime.  'Marzo' closes the album with a sublime composition that finds Pastorino and company in an introspective state of mind - a masterclass of gentility and poise that generates yet another soaring album highlight.

With a career that is bursting with praise and plaudits, it's incredible to see Matteo Pastorino still striving to raise the bar for himself with captivating new releases like 'Lightside'. 

'System D' by Biomania

'System D' marks the new album release from French quintet Biomania which finds its home on the Asta Hiroki-helmed Folded Music's sub-label, Most Least.

While Folded Music's sublime take on downtempo electronic music continues to flourish through sensational new music releases by Hiroki himself, Tristan de Liege and Catch92, Most Least continue to have similarly become hugely adept with their presentation of progressive and innovative jazz most recently captured by Ryan Wheless' space travelers union and their enthralling full-length, 'the trials of bunny john'.

Like the space travelers union project, the new release from Biomania serves as a perfect album to encapsulate so many of Most Least's lush musical tendencies and ambition with 'System D' expertly managing to introduce these elements of nu-jazz interweaved within a hip-hop aesthetic across the album's ten compositions.  

Initially conceived as a solo project by saxophonist Thierry Lemaitre - a musician whose sax has graced projects by Jalapeno Records' Ephemerals, Jimi Needles and Marvellous - the project's scope ultimately expanded to incorporate additional musicians who have all contributed to rounding the Biomania unit out into a beautifully conceived and well-rounded sound.

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; Biomania infuse all of these inspired elements into a series of unique and distinctive compositions that further solidify their own remarkable voice within today's jazz music scene.

With tracks ranging from more up-tempo numbers like the vibrant 'Devils' or 'Dinosaur', tracks like 'Dare' and 'Deepness' offer more intimate alternatives with many of the tracks punctuated by such warm keys that really point to an infectious groove-based, neo-soul styling that adorns the music throughout.

'System D' delivers as such a captivating and multi-faceted project that joyously embraces forward-thinking approaches to jazz.  A real delight and another release to showcase the ever-expanding catalogue of Most Least Records.

'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.

:n-the-m:x | February 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...

'Satellite' by Anthony Joseph featuring Eska (Heavenly Sweetness)

'Itzsoweezee' [Tall Black Guy Remix] by De La Soul

'Not Long Ago' by Taber Gable

'Pretty Buddafly' [Original Demo] by PVIBEZ

'Sand Dune Whispers' by The Soul Sound Collective

'Small Things Good Vibes' by Antonio Panteras

'Rio' by Mafalda Minnozzi

'Twangy Morocco' by Danzon El Gato (Lovemonk)

'Monsieur De Bordeaux' by Milos Colovic (A.MA)

'Lakebridge' by Okonski (Colemine)

: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.

'Kinetic' by Black Flower

'Kinetic' marks the latest album release from Belgian quintet, Black Flower, whose sensational new record finds the band continuing their long-running association with the pioneering and fearless ambition of Sdban Records.

Having initially connected over the band's second full-length offering, 'Artifacts' in 2016, Sdban have become intertwined within Black Flower's musical journey as their narrative has unfolded over the release of some fantastic music.  Heralded for their distinct fusion of contemporary jazz alongside Ethiodub and Eastern influences, 'Kinetic' serves as the perfect extension of the quintet's over-arching message.

Always striving to convey new ideas and concepts with each release, Black Flower have raised the bar to insurmountable heights this go round.  'Kinetic', as a novel concept, finds the band using their music to explore the notion of 'change' as a necessary, evolutionary step forwards.  Revered psychologist Abraham Maslow is credited as once saying "In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety".  

For Black Flower, their music has often been characterised by its decided intentions to keep moving forward - a refusal of sorts to rest on past creative laurels, if you will.  For 'Kinetic', the idea of change and movement (as the album title suggests) is regarded to be of equal importance when considering the ideal from both the physical as much as the spiritual.  Music made up of such diverse influences would only ever have focused on infectious grooves and rhythms as it would have with seeking to inspire which is in line with the Black Flower aesthetic.  

Comprised of musicians including saxophonist Nathan Daems, cornett player Jon Birdsong, drummer Simon Segers, bassist Filip Vandebril and organist Karel Cuelenaere, the Black Flower collective have ascended to super group status with many of the band's members each involved within a multitude of projects; from helming their own projects to serving as session musicians for a range of notable artists including Beck, Jamaican Jazz Orchestra, Lee Perry and Myrddin Quartet, the Black Flower team continue to raise their banner to reach increased critical acclaim each time.

The album kicks off with an emphatic statement of intent as the near-ten-minute opener navigates an enthralling exploration into the themes of movement, at times understated and at others utterly riveting.  Which very much serves as an observation indicative of the album as a whole.  An inspired album that represents some of the best work Black Flower have ever put forward. 

'Metropolis' by Marton Juhasz

'Metropolis' marks the new album from the highly-decorated and highly-educated Swiss drummer Marton Juhasz whose wonderful new project finds its home on Unit Records.

As a full-length project, 'Metropolis' raises a lot of timely and compelling questions regarding art and the increasing level of impact that technology plays in its creation.  Even beyond just creativity, our reliance on technology as a compulsory part of our everyday lives is already a divisive conversation depending on peoples' comfort with artificial intelligence ultimately adapting by what it learns about you as an individual.

It's the basis of countless sci-fi narratives whereby our very technological achievements and advancements will ultimately lead to our salvation or make mankind the architects of their own demise.  

The album's eight tracks - although bursting with joyous imagination and creativity - seems devoid of the aforementioned technological touches that a bustling future metropolis might suggest.  No synthesised effects or studio wizardry, no programmed drums or artificially generated musical performances... it's as though the album's principled stance serves as more a rejection of these utopian ideals as opposed to an acceptance of them as the definitive way forward.

Conceived in the vein of 1970s jazz fusion visionaries including Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea and the often unsung efforts of saxophonist David Murray, Juhasz has brought a scintillating project to life that revels within its multi-faceted influences ranging from contemporary, African and Latin stylings.  

With a quintet that is comprised of Juhasz on drums alongside saxophonist Charley Rose, guitarist Fabio Gouvea, bassist Jérémie Krüttli and Lorenzo Vitolo on Rhodes, listeners are treated to a vibrant and enthralling take on contemporary jazz best captured through some of the album's treasures like the immersive Latin groove of 'São Paulo', the warmth of 'Wren Song', the spirit of 'Winged Travellers' or the Afro-rhythms of 'Ancestral Drift'.

Whichever version of the future we're heading towards, it does increasingly feel that we're hurtling towards it quicker than we may realise.  While the 'Metropolis' album cover and accompanying artwork depicts a somewhat picturesque and harmonious future society, it is perhaps one that Marton Juhasz & company are approaching with trepidation but can at least rest assured that their existing musical ideals have generated an incredible project that relishes the joy in creativity and collaboration.

'To the Beat of My Footsteps' by Miloš Čolović

'To the Beat of My Footsteps' marks the formal introduction of bassist and composer, Miloš Čolović, who finds himself inducted into the hallowed walls of Italy's A.MA Records.

Despite the album serving as the musician's debut solo outing, Čolović's musical lineage dates back some years having had a hand in a multitude of projects including as part of the Gavro Quartet and Soothsayer, as well as work alongside guitarist Martin Iaies.

An impassioned and versatile musician, the Serbian bassist has found inspiration for his music across a multitude of genres and styles.  As casually displayed on the album's front cover, legendary rock band Queens of the Stone Age have proved as influential to his musical make-up as the music of Horace Silver and Wayne Shorter have.

Even just a cursory look over Čolović's YouTube channel portrays the fascinating tapestry of the last ten years of his musical journey.  The dynamicism and talents available to him are on full display through a series of intimate performances, conversations and jam sessions alongside frequent collaborators including vocalist Tanja Filipović, trumpeter Skyler Floe along with a smattering of past groups and ensembles including Egger Legionnaires, Nadzor Trio and the Thelonious Monk tribute act, The Monksters.  

From an expansive well of collaborators to pick from across Serbia's thriving jazz scene, Čolović assembles an exceptional line-up of artists to help facilitate his pioneering vision for jazz.  Amongst the album's key players are pianist Andreja Hristic, drummer Milos Grbatinic, saxophonists Luka Ignjatovic and Rastko Obradovic, all aided by A.MA Records label mate, trumpeter Ivan Radivojević, whose own 'In Plain View' album release (2022) still ranks as a sublime inclusion amidst the A.MA catalogue.

With songs throughout 'To the Beat of My Footsteps' flitting between Čolović's trio and sextet formations, 'Cimmeria' injects some immediate and infectious energy into the album as the project's opening number captivates with an enthusiastic swing.  Credited for six of the album's seven compositions, Čolović's affections for Duke Ellington's 'Solitude' are on display here with a bass-led, stripped-back presentation of the ballad which works in stark contrast to much of the album's energy delivering a superb track for the trio arrangement.

'The Dreadful Moths' races through with a rampant and compelling urgency before introducing us to perhaps the album's centrepiece, in the form of the title track, 'To the Beat of My Footsteps'.  Presented in two halves, Čolović and company deliver a scintillating closing number that does indelible justice to the project's scope and ambition as a whole. 

It's certainly been a lengthy journey for Miloš Čolović to finally present his debut, solo outing.  With so many collaborations and performances to his name, the seven tracks on this sensational album make a fitting crowning achievement to everything that has gone into his music over the last ten-plus years. 

New Jazz round-UP ::: February 2025

'Elements' by Terence Collie

The new release from pianist Terence Collie continues amidst a recent run of jazz musicians using their music as a way to connect with the environment around them.  Over the years, there have been some inspired statements as with harpist Tori Handsley's 'As We Stand' (2020, Cadillac Records) which delivered an impassioned state of affairs with her assessment of man's continual plundering of the planet and its resources, while Gianluca Vigliar Quintet's 'Plastic Estrogenus' (A.MA Records, 2019) sought to address the dangers of increasing levels of plastic found in the oceans.  Collie opts to use his recent project to explore the make-up of the world around us and celebrate the building blocks of our very universe.

As a project, the aptly-titled tracks 'Air', 'Earth, 'Fire', 'Water' and 'Elements' represent amongst some of the most inspired pieces ever to bear the Terence Collie name.  As part of a journey that began with Collie having taught himself how to play from the age of 12, the years since have heralded some monumental success and achievements with a slew of projects as a band leader, educator, a seasoned live performer and collaborator who can cite performances alongside Georgie Fame, Kyle Eastwood and Jo Harrop, amongst others.

With Collie's core trio comprised of long-term collaborators Nick Lenner-Webster (bass) and Ted Carrasco (drums), the lengthy compositions afford the artists the opportunity to fully explore the concepts and interweave their narratives accordingly.  The music is further bolstered by the inclusion of a string trio from the London String Group who help to add subtle yet compelling dimensions and textures to the music as a whole doing scintillating justice to the album's ambitious scope.

'The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite' by Josephine Davies & The Ensō Ensemble (Ubuntu Music)

Josephine Davies must surely rank amongst one of the UK's most visionary and nuanced musicians working today.  An artist who appears to regard her music within the glorious tapestry of an expansive and full-length project, each time with a compelling and enchanting story to share.  Thinking back to one of Davies' Satori releases - 'How Can We Wake?' (Whirlwind Recordings, 2020) - the album could very well have been deemed a project at the height of the saxophonist and band leader's creativity with each composition from the album exploring a different Buddhist theory centred around a state of being thus encapsulating an incredible range of inspirations across the project's ten tracks from "bliss" to "compassion" to "joy" amongst others.  And while the Satori project in of itself proved to be a release inspired by the teachings of Buddhist ideologies and principles, 'The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite' finds Davies upping the creative ante even higher, frankly, to inconceivable heights.

From the three-member Satori project to the staggering seventeen-member Ensō Ensemble, Josephine Davies presents an eight-track project that this time finds inspiration from varying times of the year within the Celtic calendar and explores Davies' own spiritual connection to them.  From blessing the first fruits of the harvest ('Lammas') to marking the beginning of winter ('Samhain') and an ode to the West Germanic spring goddess ('Ostara').

The Ensō Ensemble are comprised of a fantastic array of musicians that help to breath captivating life into Davies' vision - saxophonist Tamar Osborn (London Odense Ensemble, Flock) makes for an always welcome inclusion as does Satori double bassist, Dave Whitford.  It's a line-up that does right by everything Josephine Davies strives to inject into her music - hers continues to prove an incomparable perspective for contemporary jazz; an artist that redefines the artform and craft that goes into envisioning a project as a complete album and an artist who will continually redefine expectations of her own music.

'The Alpine Session' by Arbenz Vs Arbenz Meets Ron Carter

Michael and Florian Arbenz collaborating with bassist Ron Carter makes for a sensational union when weighing up the boundless successes, accolades and imagination each brings to the table.  Deemed the most recorded jazz bassist in history - having contributed to well over two thousand recording sessions - Carter may require the least introduction.  While boasting contributions to projects as varied as Miles Davis to A Tribe Called Quest, Carter still brings a visionary approach to his music, one matched by the Swiss Arbenz brothers.

Michael and Florian Arbenz have become revered improvisers and musicians over the years, continually looking to embrace a variety of musical challenges - pianist Michael recently unveiled his innovative 'Classicism' project which continued his explorations into the scintillating space occupied by both jazz and classical music; similarly drummer Florian recently completed his twelve-part 'Conversation' series with the intention of recording twelve albums over the course of three years and with each release showcasing his music amongst various ensembles.

For 'The Alpine Session', the Arbenz-Arbenz-Carter trio offer up a fantastic six-track project that pulls together each of their vast affections for traditional jazz stylings while still affording them the creative freedoms to present contemporary twists through their compositions.  Featuring a cover of Duke Ellington's 'It Don't Mean a Thing' (likely selected by devout Ellington fan, Michael Arbenz), the album's tracks present an enthralling mix of groove-laden performances that are just a joy.

'Part Time Elegance' by Oh People (April Recordings)

Marking our second nod to the greatness of Duke Ellington, the new Danish quintet - dubbed Oh People - have released a sublime piece of work lovingly citing the music of the pianist and composer as chief inspiration for 'Part Time Elegance'.

Finding its home on the beacon of innovative and contemporary Danish jazz in April Records, the super quintet is comprised of trumpeter Jonas Due, saxophonist Andreas Toftemark, guitarist Casper Christensen, bassist Lasse Mørck and drummer Henrik Holst Hansen.  All names who have left an indelible imprint upon their contemporary scene across a multitude of solo projects and ensembles.

Recorded over a two-day session at the end of December 2023, the eight-track release showcases across originally-penned compositions from four of the quintet's five.

While many of April Records' projects tend to showcase more progressive perspectives on jazz - like Jonas Due's own OTOOTO project (April) - it's somewhat refreshing for the label to present an album that celebrates a more Golden Age of jazz along with its offshoot genres like Dixieland, Big Band Swing and Chicago Jazz.  While the album delivers some outstanding uptempo numbers in 'Disco Double Trouble' and 'Oh!', the real gems lay in the ballads on the project with the exquisite 'Sosa' a notable album highlight.

Blue-in-Green:PODCAST #142: Ben Blackadder

Welcome to Episode #142 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST which this week sees Imran connect with producer, Ben Blackadder.

Boasting a consistent batch of exceptional single releases over the last two years, the Nottingham-based artist was initially introduced to audiences via his lush single for David Hanke's Bathurst label, 'Near'.  A brief hiatus brought him back with a vengeance with a slew of single releases including 'On My Mind', 'Fragile', 'Ebb' and 'Dust', each proving to be an outstanding showcase of multi-faceted, dance-floor friendly sublime electronica.  Blackadder's latest single 'Nightfall' finds itself as an excellent extension of Blackadder's warm and intimate textures, bolstered by exquisite use of vocal samples that delivers another gem amidst the Blackadder catalogue.

We're so appreciative of Ben's time for this conversation which sees us delve into his production techniques, establishing himself as an independent musician, embarrassing encounters with musical icons and how the quarantine period in 2020 set him on his musical pathway.

To explore the Blackadder releases so far, please feel free to visit the Bandcamp page:

https://blackaddermusic.bandcamp.com/music

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#142_Ben Blackadder

'Letting Go of Forever' by SHOLTO

Following a string of standalone single releases and the warmly-received EP 'The Changing Tides of Dreams' (2023), Oscar "SHOLTO" Robertson unveils his highly-anticipated full-length project in 'Letting Go of Forever'.  

Finding its home alongside the litany of recent and outstanding DeepMatter releases - including Don Glori's 'Don't Forget to Have Fun', Matt Wilde's 'It's a Delight EP' and The Offline's 'Les cigales' - Robertson proves as adept as his acclaimed label mates in presenting exquisite sonic soundscapes that serve as delectable melting pots for a range of influences and styles.

A self-professed enthusiast for 60s and 70s soundtracks and the German psychedelic-rock-meets-avant-garde electronic aesthetic of krautrock, Robertson's music has long-served to wear its heart on its sleeve further demonstrating his affections for progressive genre-encompassing music-makers with a tribute performance for David Axelrod at London's Jazz Café, February of this year.

While Axelrod may be rightly revered as an artist that sought to push beyond the confines of musical boundaries and restrictions, his indelible imprint continues to permeate through to future generations namely through artists like SHOLTO and projects like 'Letting Go of Forever'.

As a producer and multi-instrumentalist, Robertson regards the ambitious 26-track project as an opportunity to showcase the range of skills and wonderful talents available to him, but also to embrace the opportunity to interweave these sublime and intricate musical narratives across an infinitely broad sonic palette.

'Letting Go of Forever' delivers as an enlightening and glorious tapestry of styles that employ the right amounts of jazz, hip-hop and soul-infused instrumentals that beautifully enrich SHOLTO's inspired and imaginative compositions instilling them with scintillating life.  From the lush Roy Ayers-esque 'The Seahorse' to the noir jazz of 'There Was a Boy' to the underpinned orchestral beauty of album opener 'Ligurian Storm', each track cultivates its own personality and statement of intent cementing this album as the incredibly high standard all of his subsequent work will be measured against.

'Letting Go of Forever' proves to be an exceptional project that positions SHOLTO as an artist respectful of the foundations established by names like David Axelrod but also as an artist definitively carving out his own path ahead.  One that will no doubt inspire others in time to come.

:n-the-m:x | January 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...

'Rebirth' by TC.Kylie x The Hourglass (Legere)

'Road Trip' by Etienne Manchon Trio

'Perfect Strangers' by Lophae

'Mana Mana' by Macha Gharibian

'Madre' by Eki Shola

'1979' by Luna Soul (Legere)

'It's You' by Frankson featuring Sarah Scott (LxL, DxD)

'I Wanna Live Next to the Sea' by Raquel Martins

'Nightfall' by Ben Blackadder

'En Le Frith' by fthmlss (Folded Music)

: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.

'Weird Life' by Etienne Manchon Trio

'Weird Life' marks the latest release from French ensemble Etienne Manchon Trio who celebrate the distinction of their third full-length album.

With their first album unveiled back in 2019, 'Elastic Borders' established the trio's penchant for a high energy and voracious perspective on contemporary jazz that sought inspiration from Pink Floyd just as much as Wayne Shorter or Ben Wendel.  Very open about wearing their hearts on their sleeves, the Etienne Manchon Trio have become incredibly adept at creating music that showcases their affections for a broad scope of music with each of their releases to date sounding vastly different and unique from each other.

Headed up by pianist Etienne Manchon, the trio is further comprised of double bassist Clément Daldosso and drummer/percussionist Théo Moutou who enthusiastically embrace jazz, rock and classical music aesthetics as part of their inspired soundscapes.

For Manchon, expression through collectives and ensembles that offer him the chance to present various facets of his own fandom and overarching voice are opportunities to be embraced.  Whether that fall under the boundless versatility of The Irrefutable Octopus, the frenetic energy of Yves Rousseau Septet or the more atmospheric and experimental sounds of Congé Spatial, Manchon seems to embrace the continued challenges of releasing new music, which he seems to do at a staggering pace.

With an epic amount of live performances chalked up for last year, 2025 already seems off to an impressive start for Manchon with performances booked for all around France as part of a variety of ensembles including Calico Ensemble, Guillaume Lopez Trio and of course the Etienne Manchon Trio in support of 'Weird Life'.

What a treat it would surely be to see 'Weird Life' brought to scintillating life on a live stage.  As an eleven-track album, Manchon, Daldosso and Moutou navigate a fantastic course interweaving some sublime pieces of music with personality-driven and charismatic compositions generating some brilliant standout moments.  And it's potentially those slightly more unexpected moments that prove the most captivating like the dreamy 'Early Flight' or the understated 70s sonics of 'Road Trip'.

Etienne Manchon is unlikely to sit still for too long before the touring schedule resumes or it's time to hit the studio again but his body of work really does warrant your attention.  As for the Etienne Manchon Trio, 'Weird Life' delivers as a phenomenal album for both long-time listeners of the trio as it does as an introduction for new ears. 

Blue-in-Green:PODCAST #141: Greg Sanders of Lophae

Welcome to Episode #141 of the Blue-in-Green:PODCAST which this week sees Imran connect with Lophae founder, Greg Sanders.

The release of 'Perfect Strangers' marks another in a string of successes for guitarist, composer and producer, Sanders.  Establishing his phenomenal credentials via Teotima's two scintillating full-lengths ('Counting the Ways' and 'Weightless'), Sanders has amassed recent acclaim as a key collaborator for vocalist Juanita Euka, Jonny Wickham and Billy Marrows, amongst a litany of other artists.  His penchant for Latin-infused contemporary jazz has yielded some sensational projects which now include the 'Perfect Strangers' album courtesy of Sanders' new quartet, Lophae.

Pronounced "lo-fi", the collective is further comprised of top-tier collaborators in drummer Ben Brown, bassist Tom Herbert and saxophonist Sam Rapley who breathe sparkling life into 'Perfect Strangers'.  

We're so appreciative of Greg's time for this conversation which sees us delve into the Lophae project, life as an independent artist, past collaborations, the concept of ego and Vipassana Meditation retreats.

For more information about Lophae's 'Perfect Strangers', please feel free to visit the band's Bandcamp page.

Blue-in-Green Sessions · Blue-in-Green:PODCAST_#141_Greg Sanders (of Lophae)