Emma Jean Thackray's opening track is funk and I don't like it initially, and I'm not quite sure why but as the track progresses, the bass and vocal backing track lodges itself in my brain and I'm somewhat won over. The second track is dreary acid jazz which meanders and doesn't really go anywhere. The sound seems to shift between various styles of jazz and soul. The next track actually is jazzy soul which has a similar energy to the other tracks. It lacks dynamism but I do like the trumpet solo. The fourth track is more uptempo jazz funk. The next track is jazzy soul which has a decent groove and more of a hook. The final track has a much harder beat which Emma-Jean accompanies with her trumpet. It's all quite unremarkable though.
A Kamasi Washington gig is my wife's idea of hell as she has absolutely no tolerance for jazz. Opening with 'Lesanu', initially it seems challenging and impenetrable but this gives way to the gentle melodies of the studio version. There is a lengthy, wild saxophone solo from Kamasi in the middle of the track. It's much louder and more aggressive than the record. 'Asha The First' features a soprano saxophone solo from Rick Washington (Kamasi's dad) which starts off as simple and controlled and gradually builds in complexity and intensity. The recorded rap vocals and scratching from DJ Battlecat add a modern edge and an air of accessibility. Everyone gets their turn in the spotlight but the bass sounds too loud and distorted for the bass solo in 'Lines In The Sand'. The keyboard solo during 'Road To Self (KO)' is pretty crazy. Battlecat plays the record of 'Get Lit' which is great but there is minimal scratching. 'Vi Lua Vi Sol' sees Rick playing a lovely flute solo which is followed by a wonderful soulful sax solo from Kamasi. The mellow 'Together' features a terrific bebop style trombone solo from Ryan and an interesting talkbox solo from Battlecat. Kamasi's solo is killer during the epic space jazz of regular set closer 'Prologue' whilst a deliciously funky 'Re Run' closes the show.
Kamasi Washington ****
Emma-Jean Thackray **
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