Mammal Hands - Gift from the Trees - March 31
British experimental jazz and ambient group Mammal Hands have gathered quite a bit of recognition in the avant-garde scene over the past few years. Their latest LP, Gift from the Trees, has a clear sonic lineage to their past work, but still brings a unique flavor to their discography. Like the trio's previous work, their experimentation differs from that of their free-jazz influencers like Pharoah Sanders, and instead focuses much more on consonant melody. The band's incorporation of electronic sounds and meticulous detail are where they really shine. I also found the drum sound to be quite different from their 2020 LP Captured Spirits. Mammal Hands thrives on the border of technical dexterity and mainstream accessibility, making records for jazz savants and casual listeners alike. Soothing and soulful, Gift from the Trees is an album to lose yourself in.
Favorite Tracks: "The Spinner" ; "Nightingale" ; "Sleeping Bear"
James Holden - Imagine This Is A High Dimensional Space Of All Possibilities - March 31
British electronic artist and DJ James Holden has had his name at the forefront of the ground-breaking house and IDM scene for some time now, having built up quite the resume over the past 20 years; with a discography to back it up. From touring with Thom Yorke to starting his own record label, Holden continues to prove why he is one of the most important and influential dance musicians of the 21st century, and his latest album is the icing on the cake. This is truly a one of a kind record, incorporating elements of techno, jazz, ambient, jungle, and classic space-rock and psychedelic music, their is something extremely retro-futuristic about this LP. As hypnotizing as it is engaging, Holden's latest is best experienced in a front-to-back listening experience, contrary to the traditional divided track list of most techno albums. I'm not usually a fan of this kind of thing, but I can't get enough of this album.
Favorite Tracks: "Common Land" ; "Trust Your Feet" ; "In The End You'll Know"
