Qwalia, a new London-based quartet led by drummer Yusuf Ahmed, is making waves with their latest release, "Electric Highway, Part 2." This instrumental gem, falling into the category of Nu Jazz and Jazztronica, promises a moody and hypnotic experience. The absence of lyrics allows the music to speak for itself, taking you on a journey filled with layers of melody and atmosphere that beg for repeated listening. This thematic jam is a bridge between their debut album, "Sound & Reason," and an eagerly anticipated follow-up. "Electric Highway, Part 2" takes the concept introduced in their debut and expands it, both in sound and scope. The track is characterized by the juxtaposition of stabbing guitars and wobbling synths against a heavy bass and drum beat. This versatile sound can seamlessly fit into hip-hop sets or contemporary jazz pieces, reminiscent of the work of artists like Vels Trio. Qwalia's unique sound is the result of a collective of talented musicians who have played with a variety of artists, including David Byrne, Joy Crookes, Nubiyan Twist, Frank Ocean, and more. The quartet includes Yusuf Ahmed on drums, Tal Janes on guitars and vocals, Ben Reed on bass, and Joseph Costi on keyboards. This diversity of influences, combined with their individual virtuosity, creates a musical tapestry that is at once familiar and refreshingly new. With their debut album, "Sound And Reason," released on 24th March 2023 by Alberts Favourites, Qwalia is set to make a mark in the world of contemporary jazz and Nu Jazz. Their music is marked by deep rhythms and melodic immediacy, offering a beautiful dance of butterflies and notes in the air, as one reviewer aptly put it. "Electric Highway, Part 2" is not just a track; it's an invitation to embark on a musical journey that's both captivating and exploratory. So, if you're looking to immerse yourself in trancey jazz jams, Qwalia is a name to remember. Listen below.
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