Kamaal Williams: Mr Wu

New music from Kamaal Williams and his most recent album, Wu Hen. The London producer has delivered a sophomore album which escapes the all too real curse that plagues a lot of second offerings. Assists from Miguel-Atwood Ferguson, Lauren Faith and Quinn Mason help boost the allure, with Williams’ amalgamated brand of jazz sounding as strong as ever. You can listen to lead single, Mr Wu, above, with downloads available on Bandcamp.

Telemachus: Boring and Weird Historical Music (Album Sampler)

A nice little mix here from Telemachus, as he reveals more audible details from his much anticipated album. The compellingly titled, Boring and Weird Historical Music, is due for release next month and with the lead single already in existence, we can now sample some more of its delights. The visual accompaniment was created by Blake Dunlop. Pre-orders for the album are available now via High Focus.

Ezra Collective ft. Loyle Carner: What Am I To Do?

Another stunning track from Ezra Collective, as they unveil What Am I To Do? Following on from their triumphant collaboration with Jorja Smith last year, this time round the jazz collective have enlisted the talents of UK hip hop star, Loyle Carner. The result is a laid-back head nod inducing number, which further stokes the anticipation for their new album. You Can’t Steal My Joy is released on 26 April.

Ozomatli ft. Chali 2Na & Cut Chemist: Libertad

A happy reunion now, as Ozomatli return with a brand new single, along with two of their much-loved original members. When their eponymous debut LP was released back in 1998, Jurassic 5’s Chali 2na and Cut Chemist, both played a big part in both the project’s music and its cross genre appeal.
They were absent from subsequent releases and I think from my point of view, none of the other albums ever really reached the levels of that debut. But now the Latin sextet are back with Libertad, featuring the two J5 favourites, as well as a band that sounds tighter than ever – shouts to the bass player in particular. No word on a new album as yet, but hopefully this is a sign that more new music is on the horizon.

Babylon Dead: Empire

The long awaited Babylon Dead album is finally given life today and to celebrate the release, JMan and Illinformed have released a brand new video for Empire. Where as previous tracks have put the police in BD’s sights, Empire opens fire on the EDLs and Britain Firsts of this green and pleasant land. The album itself is available to buy now from the RLD store.

Sudan Archives: Come Meh Way

Stones Throw long ago transcended the boundaries of being a hip hop label and now their roster boasts an alarming amount of talent, from a wealth of genres and styles. Take their latest signing, singer and violinist, Sudan Archives. The 23 year old Ohio resident is forging her own unique path, in a industry that is increasingly saturated with trite soundalikes and cliched repetitions. She is also self-taught on the violin – which is impressive in itself – having been inspired by Sudanese fiddlers, among other musicians. Her first single is a sublime number and gives you a first class idea of what she is all about. Haunting self-harmonies and glitchy electro backing, all laced with her fiddle and all produced by her as well. Sudan has an EP due out next month, so watch out for more news on that coming soon.

Bellatrix Needs Our Help

The inimitable Bellatrix is finally putting together her first EP after years of wowing crowds with her lives shows and collaborations. If you have yet to see her perform, she basically fuses her skills as a beatboxer and double-bassist, to create the most amazing soundscapes.

BROOKZILL! ft. Count Bass D: Saudade Songbook

Exciting developments stateside, as BROOKZILL! emerge from the musical ether of Brooklyn and Brazil. Comprised of Prince Paul, Ladybug Mecca, Rodrigo Brandão and Don Newkirk, the quartet are described as the sonic link between New York and Brazil, fusing hip hop’s future with its past.

BADBADNOTGOOD: Chompy’s Paradise

A new new not old video from the excellent new album from BADBADNOTGOOD, which arrived back in July. Chompy’s Paradise is indicative of the album’s varied sounds and flavours, with lazy jazz horns taking centre stage. IV is out now on Beat Records.

Funky DL: The Jazz Lounge

This great new project from the legendary UK producer and remix don, Funky DL just got released. Returning to his usual haunt of jazz infused brilliance, The Jazz Lounge is full of remixes of already established Funky DL tracks, like Ode To Nujabes and Out of Touch.