Miles Davis – Big Fun VS. Drums and Tuba – Box Fetish
Drums and Tuba – Box Fetish
In short bursts, Miles Davis might have won out here in
terms of sheer innovation. As a whole,
however, Big Fun is a compilation of recordings that, when taken as a
whole, is a taxing listen at over two hours long. Granted, of course, that Box Fetish most
likely wouldn’t have existed without the trailblazing work represented by Big
Fun, it still comes off as more, well, fun – while still posing a significant
challenge to the genres that birthed it.
Dudu Tassa & Jonny Greenwood – Jarak Qaribak VS.
Khruangbin – Mordechai
Khruangbin – Mordechai
I love and appreciate Jarak Qaribak as both an
artistic success and cultural statement.
Jonny Greenwood’s ability to tastefully interact with non-Western styles
and enhance them with his unique brand of 21st century musicianship
is endlessly engaging. Mordechai’s Thai-influenced chill-funk is just too seductive,
though, and won out due to the familiarity generated through endless repeats
during our Summer travels.
Ekiti Sound – Drum Money VS. WITCH – Zango
Ekiti Sound – Drum Money
This one was the most difficult choice in this set. Zango has a classic, vintage 70’s African
psychedelic feel that really resonates with me personally. Close inspection, however, gives me the
feeling that not as much substance lies beyond its patina as it might
seem. Drum Money, on the other
hand, seems to reveal increased layers as I inspect it closer. It functions effortlessly as both a compelling
contemporary Afropop album and a textured DJ-inspired release.
Gentle Giant – In’terview VS. Hooray for Earth – Fantasy
Something
Gentle Giant – In’terview
I was very pleasantly surprised by Fantasy Something. It’s an impressive step in the sonic evolution
of Hooray for Earth. Musical director
Noel Heroux takes lots of chances and they all pay off. I can’t, however, in all good conscience
ignore the insane musicianship and taste of Gentle Giant at what might be the
height of their powers. With one foot
still planted in their deep progressive roots, they continue to streamline the approach
they took on this album’s predecessor (and my favorite Gentle Giant album),
Free Hand.
Viewer’s Choice
Miles Davis – Big Fun VS. Drums and Tuba – Box Fetish
Miles Davis – Big Fun
Sault – Untitled (God) VS. Khruangbin – Mordechai
Khruangbin – Mordechai
Ekiti Sound – Drum Money VS. WITCH – Zango
WITCH – Zango
Frank Sinatra – Watertown VS. Hooray for Earth – Fantasy
Something
Frank Sinatra - Watertown
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