Jas Kayser: Unforced Rhythm of Grace

Rating: ★★★★

Record and Artist Details

Musicians:

Aaron Holthus (b)
Ron Cha (ky)
Jas Kayser (d)
Juan Mejia (perc)
Milena Casado Fauquet (t)

Label:

Self-release

August/2020

Media Format:

CD, DL

RecordDate:

date not stated

Unforced Rhythm of Grace is an exciting debut three-track EP in which drummer and composer Jas Kayser carves a distinct sound with a rhythmic Afrobeat foundation, squelchy, swaying horns, and dense, geometric chords.

It opens with a nine-drum whirl of Pejambel and Guadalupe rhythms, then samples an interview of Afrobeat pioneer and civil rights activist Fela Kuti stressing artists’ responsibility to reflect their social and political environs. The second track, ‘Ku Variations’, fills out Brice Wassy's futurist 5/4 groove ‘Ku Jazz’ with a weightier bassline and a woozy, stretched-out trumpet in lieu of vocals.

The last track, ‘Feel It’, ventures into a more trance-like realm with its synthy, subdued chorus. The listener dances out of it, though, as the bass and trumpet embark on a darting melody that grows in tenacity and funkiness.

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