Nubiyan Twist just keep on getting better and better with each new record – finding a sound that pushes way past their roots, and which uses the bold energy of their large London ensemble to unlock a new way of linking together jazz, soul, and Afrobeat! This album introduces singer Aziza Jaye to the group – a great vocalist who helps them find even more focus than before – in a driving blend of drums, percussion, keyboards, and wonderfully well-crafted horns – supported here with guest appearances from Nile Rodgers on guitar on one track, Corto Alto on trombone and another, and vocal features from Seun Kuti, Ria Moran, and others. Titles include "Pray For Me", "Lights Out", "All the Same", "Woman", "Carry Me", "Battle Isn't Over", "So Mi Stay", "Reach My Soul", and "Find Your Flame". (Global Grooves, Neo Soul) CD

Kassa Overall continues to be one of those artists who's not only impossible to peg, but who's also maybe a genre unto himself – a jazz drummer at the core, but one who's not afraid to throw in vocals, bits of funk, hip hop lyrics, and other styles as well! With each new record, Overall seems to really be evolving his style – and here, he delivers music that's even more personal than before at a lyrical level, while opening the door for a range of guests who help flesh out the sound – a lineup that includes Danny Brown, Anthony Ware, J Hoard, Lil B, and Nick Hakim – plus jazz musicians Vijay Iyer and Theo Croker. Titles include "The Lava Is Calm", "No It Ain't", "Make My Way Back", "Clock Ticking", "So Happy", "It's Animals", "Maybe We Can Stay", and "The Score Was Made". CD