We have written about Ari Joshua extensively, in the last few months. The Seattle-based guitarist is going through an incredibly fertile period, creatively speaking. At home in jazz and fusion settings, Joshua champions eclectic and nuanced musicianship, often collaborating with some of the best players in the game (we’ll give you one name: John Medeski). Now, Ari returns with a record that seems to be focusing more on a vocal-based approach.
‘Help On the Way’ anticipates Joshua’s upcoming new music compilation, signalling once again a pool of incredible talent and enlightening music material. Featuring drummer John Kimock, bassist Andy Hess, and keyboardist Eden Ladin, Ari leads the band as vocalist, guitarist, and producer. Sonically, we are in funk and soul territories, with the occasional jazz-flavoured solo in the mix. There’s a touch of psychedelia, thanks to polite organ soundscapes and a rather liquid overall sound. We are into it!
Also released or upcoming this summer: ‘Kambo Wambo’, a medicinal-psychedelic-inspired afrobeat instrumental featuring members of The Trey Anastasio Band (Ray Paczkowski, & Russ Lawton). ‘Dragons Layer’, an angular cinematic composition featuring Billy Martin, and John Medeski. ‘Nun Kommt es Werder’, a ballad from Ari’s classic jazz quartet.
‘Help On the Way’ is available via Music Factory Records now:
