Love Heart Cheat Code – Hiatus Kaiyote
Hiatus Kaiyote has not missed a beat in their first album since 2021. Love Heart Cheat Code, blurring the lines between psychedelia, jazz and soul, is everything we love about the band and more. The album is at once familiar and groundbreaking, effortlessly bringing together traditional jazz structures with the modern sounds of hip-hop and their patented psychedelic tones. Hiatus Kaiyote, once again, shows us that it is possible for bands to evolve and explore whilst remaining true to their musical roots. The album’s title track immediately shines as a fresh take on the classic Hiatus Kaiyote sound. It shifts, twists and swirls endlessly, striking a perfect balance between chaotic avant-garde bliss and melodic hooks that would knock anyone out.
Altera Vita – Alina Bzhezhinska & Tony Kofi
Altera Vita, put simply, is an album of gorgeous sounds and jazz tapestries. The tender swells of Alina Bzhezhinska’s harp and the warm tones of Tony Kofi’s saxophone fall together seamlessly, creating a feeling of serenity and repose that pervades every second of every track. Perhaps the album’s shining characteristic is its respect for empty space—Altera Vita is invariable considered and unrushed. Very rarely can a piece of music remain powerful and compelling while also allowing us time and room to breathe. Bzhezhinska and Kofi, over 30 minutes of beautiful passages and textures, bless listeners with a masterful display of modern jazz.
