NUBYA GARCIA
Odyssey
(Concord Jazz)
Odyssey, the new album from Nubya Garcia is highly anticipated, with her emergence in the exciting currents of the British jazz scene, spearheaded by such as Ms. Garcia and the splendid Ezra Collective, whose own new album is imminent! We’re being spoiled!
Superbly packaged in a lavish gatefold sleeve with a full-size booklet, the enigmatic artwork is complimented by the striking red & black splattered double vinyl within. I’d say the music matches the presentation, justifying the eager anticipation with which Nubya’s 2nd LP was awaited.
It is an involving, upbeat album with bold arrangements; Nubya wants to relay positive vibes in her message for us as we travel life’s journey, the odyssey.
Apart from being one of the finest jazz tenor saxophone talents to emerge from the British scene in recent years, Ms. Garcia can hardly go wrong with a stellar line-up that includes the ever-inventive Joe Armon-Jones on keyboards, the classy bass-playing of Daniel Casimir and the irrepressible drumming of Sam Jones. There are several other excellent brass players joining the fray, with many great contributions all told.
There’s more; Garcia has added soulful guest vocalists, Esperanza Spalding and Georgia Ann Muldrow, on some pieces and then there is the Chineke Orchestra, bringing their sweeping and symphonic - almost cinematic scale - to the album. Spectacular!
Nubya gives the Orchestra full rein, sometimes herself only emerging to take control through her dynamic, forceful soloing when arriving after several minutes into tracks that are already building their momentum.
It’s always an engaging, organic record and if you enjoyed “Source”, you will also love Nubya’s new release. “Odyssey” is an accomplished and powerful statement that reminds me of the fulminating, expansive sound of the formidable Kamasi Washington. There’s no higher compliment!
For me, the fourth side of this double-album is the highlight. It is given over to her glorious jazz-funk-dub-reggae roots message of hope and unity, called “Triumphance”.
It’s the essence of Nubya’s muse. A driving, danceable, relentless groove of twelve minutes, half of this being an instrumental version. The first half of “Triumphance” has Nubya narrating her own verses over the strident rhythms, pushing her rallying cry - this lady is not to be denied!
“Raise up your hands
Uplift your soul
And in Triumphance together
All as one”
Nubya will carry us all forward; join her on the odyssey!
Essential Information
Vinyl currently as of writing, here
On bandcamp here
