Dreamy old-school production rising into a fully-loaded jazz to neo-classical production – Keith Eatmon sets a smooth and engaging vibe, with the opening warmth and subsequently genre-blending journey of Jamaica.
Beginning with an impressively humble, retro and hazy keys and synth introduction, Jamaica soon weaves in a strong eighties rhythm, and the mellow warmth slowly envelopes its audience, before evolving towards a colourful and rather seasonal arrangement of multiple horns, strings, keys, bass notes and, essentially, the fullness of a live jazz orchestra.
Things continue to roll along and build beautifully, the mid-section becoming far more of an excitable, uplifting and celebratory moment when compared to the chilled energy of the opening minute, and the latter half then smoothing things out again just briefly – piano and horns intermittently taking centre stage, for a performance that’s eclectic and impressive, yet also consistently well-grounded amidst the intended vibe of the music.
As a joyful hit of escapism, Jamaica – an ode to the eighties original by Bobby Caldwell – genuinely lights up the stage – nostalgia and something slightly more unpredictable walk hand-in-hand through a rather perfectly crafted three minutes and twenty three seconds. Then as an introduction to Keith Eatmon, the music works its magic in a lasting way – gifting a sense of true escapism and comfort or calm, even possibility and awakening, to those who seek out precisely these qualities in instrumental music.
A beautiful and humble yet engaging work, from an artist whose repertoire is swiftly gaining authentic and lasting momentum. Consider also the 2022 release My Love Is On Fire – a track within which the saxophone guides us towards a more slick and striking groove, with smooth vocals injecting a touch of soul and RnB fluidity. The song also promises a beautiful and poetic hook – one that lingers in the mind indefinitely, and again blends those yesteryear and contemporary qualities rather seamlessly.
People Gotta Move is another more recent release, from earlier this year – an alluring production, with a fresh vocal style, performative flair and a snappy hook, along with quirky and colourful production that’s perfectly connected to the intended mood and emotions of the writing.
That’s a trait found throughout the Keith Eatmon catalogue – this ability to let the music speak volumes, to represent a plethora of changing feelings and scenes, even without the guidance of lyrics. And with the brand new single Jamaica, that’s exactly the kind of audio experience gifted to listeners.
Single out January 8th, 2025. Find Keith Eatmon on Facebook & Instagram.
