Joe Armon Jones – Turn To Clear View

“While first and foremost a jazz fusion record, a few of the tracks here look to the rocksteady philosophy of dub. Snaking, melodious basslines take the lead on tracks like ‘Try Walk With Me’, intertwining with half-time drums and astral harmonising in a manner that recalls the arrangements of Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp A Butterfly. Indeed, hip-hop and rap are other core touchstones for Turn To Clear View, from the crunchy drum breaks that anchor several cuts to a guest appearance from UK legend Jehst.

A record this stylistically supple wouldn’t hold together without some exceptional musical ability going into it. Armon-Jones once again proves himself an excellent band-leader, dictating proceedings from the keys while occasionally stepping out with a virtuoso solo. Long-time pals Oscar Jerome, Nubya Garcia and Moses Boyd are among the others who further their case across Turn To Clear View.”

LP / Brownswood Recordings