Last week, I came across some excellent releases which came in just in time for Easter. Instead of looking for chocolate eggs (my garden resembles a desert right now), I will be spending some time reading while listening to Alpheus, Shabaka and the Ancestors, Thundercat and Feng Suave.
Alpheus – The Victory
Step into Jamaica at the end of the sixties when Ska, Rocksteady and early Reggae dominated the airwaves. As with the previous albums released by Alpheus, this one has Roberto Sanchez in the producer chair. Alpheus and Roberto Sanchez have become something of a dynamic duo with already four stunning albums to their name and it doesn’t seem they plan on slowing down any time soon.
Shabaka and the Ancestors – We Are Send Here By History
After some excellent releases in various ensembles, Shabaka Hutchings returns with the Ancestors to release yet another marvelous piece of music. Prepare yourself for a spiritual journey through African folklore fueled by the rhythmic drive of this great continent. If you like the sound of “We Are Send Here By History”, be sure to check out the article I published earlier on Fyah by Theon Cross.
Thundercat – It Is What It Is
After the eponymous Drunk, Thundercat returns with a stellar set of new material. As with his previous releases, Thundercat continues to engulf everything from hip-hop to R&B packed with humor as one can expect from such a colorful character. Produced largely by Thundercat himself aided by Flying Lotus and featuring some big names such as Childish Gambino. Thundercat will be showcasing this new material in the Melkweg Amsterdam on the 5th of October, so get your tickets while you can.
A tip I got from a friend of mine: Roughtrade.com offers the limited edition vinyl for £19,99 next to fast shipping!
Feng Suave – Warping Youth
The Dutch duo based in Amsterdam is back with a brand new EP. I loved their first EP so much that I bought the second one without listening to the first two songs already available. The EP offers 6 six brand new songs instead of 4 songs they offered on the first EP. After listening to the first two songs it is clear that they chose to take their sound into another direction. This is always exciting and can make or break a new band. But Feng Suave is able to pull it off and I’m more than happy that I pre-ordered without listening.
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