Album of the week: Dama Bega Nibi (I Want To Go Home) – Aron & The Jeri Jeri Band // Lean in – Gretchen Parlato & Lionel Loueke

EASTSIDE ALBUM OF THE WEEK PRESENTS

Dama Bega Nibi (I Want To Go Home) – Aron & The Jeri Jeri Band

Released just this year on the 12th January 2024, Aron & The Jeri Jeri Band is a fusion collection of Senegalese traditions with jazz and the pulsating bliss of electronic music and rhythm. Led by the visionary saxophonist Aron Ottignon, the band collaborates with the revered Jeri Jeri ensemble to create a mesmerizing sonic tapestry that transcends boundaries. “Dama Bëgga Ñibi” pulsates with infectious energy and innovative instrumentation. The album’s title, meaning “journey of the soul” in Wolof, reflects its exploration of spirituality and human connection through music.

Lean in – Gretchen Parlato & Lionel Loueke

Although preforming together for decades, GRAMMY-nominated vocalist Gretchen Parlato and procclaimed guitarist Lionel Loueke, they have created a rich tapestry of sound that seamlessly blends jazz, world music, and contemporary influences. Their new album “Lean in” is all about the warmth, healing, affection and love.

Each track on the album unfolds like a poignant story, evoking a range of emotions and sensations. From delicate ballads to rhythmic explorations, “Lean In” showcases the duo’s exceptional musical chemistry and innovative approach to collaboration, solidifying their status as two of the most dynamic voices in modern jazz.