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Chip Wickham – Cloud 10 [Gondwana Records]

October 1, 2022

Hard to believe that “Cloud 10”, the latest release by Chip Wickham is his debut for Gondwana records. Label head Matthew Halsall has enlisted Wickham for his Gondwana Orchestra projects so it’s only right for him to join the family. “Cloud 10” is filled with an array of soulful compositions tailor made for Wickham’s strong tenor sound. Outside of label-mate Amanda Whiting, this is a veteran band that knows each other well. The title track opens up the set with a slow burning groove while Wickham’s dreamy phrasing places you in a relaxing mood. “Lower East Side” finds Wickham’s melodic flute phrasing aligned beautifully with Jack Mc Carthy’s thundering percussion. “The Hill” erupts with Whiting’s heavenly harp. Jon Scott’s rhythmic drumming creates plenty of space for all to shine. Bassist Sneaky lays down a tasty groove and vibraphonist Tom Risco rises to the occasion. The finale “Before I Go” is a silky ballad where pianist Phil Wilkinson serenading melodies snuggle warmly to Wickham’s warm harmonic tone. Wickham consistently delivers one marvelous record after another. This new release is no exception. Pour yourself a glass of wine, lean back and enjoy.

https://chipwickham.bandcamp.com/album/cloud-10

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Jasmine Myra – Horizons [Gondwana Records]

When it comes to Gondwana records you can expect supreme spiritual jazz recordings. Leeds based Saxophonist Jasmine Myra is the latest artist to emerge on the label with a sublime recording worthy of your attention. Myra’s debut “Horizons” was written during the lockdown and unintentionally became a therapeutic composition to pull her through trying times. The eight track disc moves along with a simmering down-tempo pace. For starters the title track finds Myra’s horn aligned with warm hypnotic strings. “Morningside” is another blissful tune where Myra generates sweet melodies on the soprano as well as engaging harmonies on the piano. Produced by Matthew Halsall who serves as a guiding light throughout the recording. Myra demonstrates that she’s an adept reedist and a capable pianist as well. Her tender compositions provide a glimpse of a promising future.

https://jasminemyra.bandcamp.com/album/horizons

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