New music from jazz instrumentalist Messiah’el Bey comes in the form of a deeply heartfelt and ambitious project.
The boldly-titled Jazz Can Heal America’s Soul begins with a conversation relayed on top of a dramatic movie scene’s audio – a captivating excerpt that delves into the tribulations of slaves and quickly connects that to the struggles of today.
The album lives up to its name in an instant, and proceeds to weave an enchanting, creatively unpredictable composition entitled Dear Aisha. A chaotic and complex piece, mellow world rhythms juxtaposed by wave-like layers of warped production and freestyle instrumentation. This track is a solo work from Messiah’el Bey, but much of the subsequent album sees the renowned creative join forces with singer Rocio Del Pozo, for a soundtrack that’s unlike anything you’ll have experienced in quite a while.
If the intention is to uplift and heal the soul, the album takes a moment to deliver that – the striking depths of the introductory conversation lingering throughout hints of darkness in Dear Aisha. But, it ultimately finds stronger and stronger roots amidst the RnB tones and optimism of Chiquita Brujita’s Fiesta, and the sultry and intimate warmth of Pillow Talk Sutra.
Lo-fi jazz and distant conversation later join forces, for the striking Come Back To Me! – a song that redirects us at first, only to achieve a status of outright bright and beautiful at its passionately soulful peak. A definite highlight.
Cinematic design is a key aspect of Jazz Can Heal America’s Soul, with segments and production tweaks all lighting up the tracks for a sound that’s naturally a fusion of Jazz, RnB and Latin vibes. Consider the instrumental swagger and colourful energy of Who’s Your Favorite Beatle? – a fun track, a healing hit of escapism, and again unlike any of the former compositions. Another favourite.
Joyful jazz and salsa implications contrast the smooth RnB vocals of A Miranda Writes Family Affair, another intriguing adventure, before things get cinematic again for the background chaos and mellow musicality of Another Brooklyn Story in The Middle East. Saxophone leads here, a welcomed twist of style and sway – one final musical highlight for its combination of familiar and unprecedented intricacies.
The live ability of Messiah’el Bey and Rocio Del Pozo shines its light with unquestionable brightness, not least of all through the closing track It’s Alright. We resolve our journey of struggle and uncertainty, with a calming sentiment, and world-music rhythms and tones that sooth the soul. The vocal is beautiful, gentle and expressive, the lyrics hopeful and inspiring. A great way to wrap up a project that promises the healing power of jazz in unison with topical observations.
Read our interview or visit Messiah’el Bey’s Website.
