BPH Live In New York
Charles Owens Trio
Charles Owens has been playing the sax for 20 years. He's been a sideman with Jason Jenkins, Jason Lindner, and Omer Avital. He held down the Friday night slot at Smalls in NYC for 8 solid years before moving to Viriginia. Now he's tight with the Jellowstone crew and delivering a new LP titled 'A Day With You' - due out on November 13th. The album, featuring Devonne Harris on drums and Andrew Randazzo on bass, is a collection of classics with some original compositions. Recorded in one day at Jellowstone Studios to capture the sound of this trio as close to live as possible. Drop in right here to get up with Charles Owens, and stay tuned this week for a preview of the new record.
Elikeh!
Breaking out of the confines of world music comes a new sound we have defined as trans-global music. we dropped a few gems last year in this style - The Funk Ark, Karikatura, and Ajoyo - and now from Washington DC comes ELIKEH. Led by Massama Dogo from Togo and joined by band members from Nigeria, Ghana, and the US, Elikeh stirs the Afropop pot so well that all of the influences swirl around as you listen. Their Ropeadope debut is a three song EP entitled KONDONA, due out on November 20th worldwide. Drop in here and hit that like button to stay on top of this one.
Nothing shall i fear
Ruff Scott, born in Jamaica and on the NY scene for years. A member of the legendary Easy Star All Stars, Ruff Scott has worked with many greats from Sugar Minott, Dennia Brown, and U-Roy to King Yellow Man, Marcia Grffiths, and Beenie Man. Now Ruff has teamed up with Billy Polo at Prince Polo Records and is ready to release a full length solo project - Nothing Shall I Fear. The record hits everywhere on Friday, but today you can preorder in high quality audio AND snag the dub versions of each track for FREE. It's all right here at Prince Polo. Dig.
big picture holiday
Saxophonist and bandleader Avram Fefer spent his formative years jamming with Roy Hargrove and John Medeski and went on to play with Archie Shepp, The Last Poets, and Tony Allen. And now Avram brings together Big Picture Holiday - a seasoned band with a funky, soulful and lush sonic universe. Their new record, Shimmer and Melt, drops right here on October 30 - get ready for some groove, and drop in right here to get on the list.
Christian Scott Speaks
Creativity, compassion, and courage are all present in Christian Scott Atunde Adjuah's appearance on NPR's Tiny Desk Concert. Christian describes his personal encounter with police in the context of writing his composition KKPD, with all of the emotion and frustration that results from intimidation based on race. We applaud Christian for persistently bringing this issue to the national stage, and urge you to tune in and support. Check out the NPR piece right here, and support right over here.
Beastie (Ghost-Note)
Going back to church
Last year Mark de Clive-Lowe dropped CHURCH - an incredible collection of music that was composed on the spot at his live events. The record remains in top rotation here at the fake office, and now MdCL has gone back to church with a massive remix project of the same name. This is one to add to your collection folks, pick it up here, and check out the deluxe bundle with both albums (22 tracks).
Live And Love All Life
Prince Polo Records is here with their first release. Jesse Ivan Demming AKA Quizflo, born in Trinidad and now a presence on the NY reggae scene, brings a classic sound with beautiful melodies and a unique voice. His message is positive positive positive - a refreshing renaissance of the heart of reggae music. Led by the dedication and pure love of the music, Billy Polo is the driving force behind Prince Polo Records, and we can tell you some great music is coming right at you. Pick up Out From The Nest right here.
RSVP RECORDS
Robert 'Sput' Searight. Held in high esteem by his peers and fans alike. His credits are lengthy, but it is his quiet and persistent dedication to the evolution of music that shows his true brilliance. We are honored to announce the launch of RSVP RECORDS, founded by Sput and the newest addition to the Ropeadope family of labels. First up on RSVP is Fortified, the debut album from Ghost-Note with the incomparable Nate Werth and a host of special guests. Expect uplifting music from some of the best kept secrets in the community as Sput and RSVP roll out an impeccable roster of exceptional artists.
Drop in right here to see what it's all about, and sign up here to be in the mix. This is special.