RedazioneThe latest release by The Ari Joshua Quartet, “Praysue,” represents a masterful blend of gipsy jazz influences, rhythmically complex arrangements, and ethereal atmosphere. As a featured track on the webzine, this high-quality recording is a testament to the rich, diverse sonic explorations of Ari Joshua’s collaborations with renowned musicians John Medeski and Billy Martin, of Medeski, Martin, and Wood (MMW). With Medeski’s unparalleled mastery on the keys and Martin’s dynamic rhythmic foundation, “Praysue” emerges as an evocative, entrancing musical experience.
The rhythmic structure of “Praysue” is nothing short of mesmerizing. Billy Martin’s drumming is subtle yet insistent, weaving intricate patterns that keep the listener constantly engaged. His work here feels both grounded and free, a hallmark of his jazz background. Martin manages to fuse the earthy, organic grooves associated with MMW’s genre-fluid style with the gipsy swing undertones of Joshua’s guitar. The rhythmic complexity pushes and pulls, creating a sense of fluidity that keeps the track unpredictable and exciting.
Equally important is the bassline, which acts as the anchor throughout the track. It’s steady, pulsing with a heartbeat-like quality that ties the various rhythmic and melodic elements together. There’s a hypnotic quality to the way the bass dances beneath the surface, subtly shifting the foundation as the track evolves. The groove is consistent, yet never static, offering just enough variation to keep things fresh while allowing the other instruments to soar.
John Medeski’s contribution on the synth in “Praysue” is particularly noteworthy. Known for his versatile keyboard work and ability to create expansive soundscapes, Medeski layers the track with swirling synth textures that drift in and out like a dream. His synth lines seem to hover just above the grounded rhythms, providing an airy, ethereal quality that elevates the track to new heights. The way the synth interacts with the other instruments is a testament to Medeski’s unique ability to blend organic and electronic elements seamlessly.
There’s a cosmic quality to the synth work, reminiscent of Medeski’s contributions to MMW’s more experimental releases, yet it remains firmly rooted in the gipsy jazz framework. The juxtaposition of these elements—the earthy, grounded guitar lines and the floating, atmospheric synths—creates a soundscape that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
Ari Joshua’s guitar is the driving force behind “Praysue.” His playing is sharp, precise, and deeply evocative, drawing from the rich traditions of gipsy jazz while adding his own modern flair. Joshua’s ability to effortlessly shift between fast-paced, intricate runs and more contemplative, emotive passages gives the track a dynamic, living quality. His guitar work is at once fiery and soulful, serving as the connective tissue that brings together the track’s diverse elements.
What’s most impressive about Joshua’s performance is his ability to make complex, virtuosic playing sound effortless. His guitar lines flow naturally, weaving in and out of the rhythmic and melodic framework with ease. This natural flow, combined with his technical prowess, makes for a deeply satisfying listening experience.
The overall atmosphere of “Praysue” is one of introspection and exploration. It’s a track that invites the listener to lose themselves in the music, to let the rhythms, melodies, and textures wash over them. There’s a sense of movement throughout the track—an ebb and flow that mirrors the improvisational nature of the quartet’s playing. The synergy between the musicians is palpable, and it’s clear that this is a group of players who are not only deeply skilled but also deeply connected.
The artwork accompanying this release, created by Mark Henson, further enhances the mystical, dreamlike quality of the music. Known for his vibrant, cosmic-themed paintings, Henson’s visual art complements the sonic landscape perfectly. Walking into Alex Grey’s gallery and being greeted by Henson’s paintings is like stepping into the world of “Praysue”—a world of color, light, and sound, where the boundaries between the real and the imagined blur.
The Ari Joshua Quartet has delivered something truly special with “Praysue.” This track, with its intricate rhythms, haunting synths, and soulful guitar work, is a high-quality piece of art that we are thrilled to host on our webzine. For fans of jazz, experimental music, and gipsy swing, this track is a must-listen. It’s a journey into the depths of musical collaboration and a shining example of what can happen when great artists like Ari Joshua, John Medeski, and Billy Martin come together to create something truly unique.
