New jazz and funk creative composer super-band Polyphonic Exophilia (PPXP) recently joined forces with singer and artist Laura Dia, resulting in a live jam session that made for a beautifully colourful and compelling EP of original tracks.
The upcoming South London Sessions promises a live-band vibe of positivity and high energy, united with smooth vocals and quirky adlibs that consistently place melodies on top of melodies, for a freestyle musical expression that’s as entertaining as it is impressive.
Something Funky kicks things off and is all of this, an aptly-titled exploration of sound and play that perfectly exemplifies the talent of those involved and indeed the unrivalled power of collaboration.
Next we get a smooth and sultry late-night jazz vibe and a lyrical story from Laura Dia, New Moon effectively bringing scenes and feelings unexpectedly into the mix. Still the energy is up, the fluidity engages, and the song offers a soulful twist of humanity that’s well placed within the set.
Age Of Lonely (featuring master percussionist Adetoyese Adeyeye) follows and effectively takes that contemplation to greater depths. Stunning vocal layers and subtle horns make for a bass-driven ambiance that’s intoxicatingly intimate and poetically compelling – inspiring thoughts on the world, on modern life and mankind at large. A personal highlight and a powerful work to escape into.
For the final track, things get a little experimental and quirky, a new instrumental pace and presence lighting up the nuances of Laura’s voice within a heavier dance beat and excitable groove. Something Funky (Club mix) wraps up the journey with an electro injection of floor-filler positivity and inescapable optimism.
All in all, a brilliantly eclectic yet well-grounded collection of live musical performances. South London Sessions captures the majestic glow of talented, devoted musicians all united in a moment of shared reflection and pure enjoyment. It’s thoughtful yet not overbearing, upbeat but purposeful, and a real treasure of a live set; one that speaks volumes on behalf of the skill and commitment of the independent music realm.
EP Out September 20th – Pre-save it here. Follow PPXP & Laura Dia.
