Every month, we pick one record from the latest releases that we just can’t get enough of. This one hits all the right notes – here’s why it’s our top pick.
In a world where music often serves as a backdrop to our lives, Nala Sinephro invites us to take a step back and engage in a more profound experience. Her sophomore album, Endlessness, emerges as a transformative journey through the realms of ambient jazz and experimental electronica, captivating listeners in a way that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Sinephro’s work strikes a delicate balance, allowing us to drift between states of consciousness and surrender to the flow of sound.
Raised in the outskirts of Brussels, Sinephro’s diverse heritage infuses her music with a unique richness. Drawing on her upbringing and experiences, she stands at the crossroads of ambient music and jazz, crafting a sound that feels both timeless and modern. Her debut album, Space 1.8, introduced us to her world, but Endlessness expands on that foundation, plunging us deeper into the essence of existence itself.
Why is it Our Record of the Month?
Endlessness isn’t just an album; it’s an exploration of the nuances within music. From the opening track, the album captivates with its intricate layers, flowing seamlessly between the organic and the synthetic. The production is meticulously crafted, showcasing Sinephro’s growth as a studio mastermind. With the help of her talented collaborators, including the likes of Nubya Garcia and Morgan Simpson, she invites us to witness the beauty of musicians creating together in real time.
What sets Endlessness apart is its ability to dissolve binaries. Sinephro blurs the lines between ambient and jazz, creating a sonic tapestry that feels expansive yet intimately connected. Each track—titled as a "Continuum"—acts as a fragment of a larger narrative, exploring themes of existence, fluidity, and transformation. The album’s intricate arrangements and improvisational spirit invite listeners to embrace uncertainty, much like the cycles of life it reflects.
For Fans of Floating Points and Shabaka Hutchings
Fans of artists Floating Points & Pharoah, Shabaka and Matthew Halsall will find a kindred spirit in Sinephro. Just as Floating Points melds electronic precision with organic warmth, Sinephro intertwines her harp, piano, and synths to create a soundscape that transcends the ordinary. The spirit of collaboration that defines her work resonates deeply with the jazz renaissance that Hutchings has championed. Both artists share a commitment to pushing musical boundaries, making Sinephro’s Endlessness a must-listen for anyone invested in the evolution of modern jazz.
A Meditative Journey
At its core, Endlessness is a meditative experience. Sinephro has spoken of her music as having “medicinal” qualities, and the gentle, immersive soundscapes indeed evoke a sense of tranquility. Tracks like “Continuum 4” and “Continuum 5” offer moments of calm, with soothing orchestrations and subtle melodies that transport the listener to a serene state. However, this isn’t merely background music; it challenges us to engage actively with its complexities.
The tension between live musicians and electronic elements keeps us on our toes. In “Continuum 1,” for example, the blips of synthesized sound juxtapose with the dynamic drumming, creating an intricate dance that defies expectations. Sinephro’s adept production ensures that every element has its place, yet the friction between the different musical worlds enriches the listening experience.
As the album unfolds, we find ourselves navigating a sonic landscape that can be at once calming and unsettling. The intricate arrangements demand our attention, inviting us to reflect on our own perceptions and experiences. “Continuum 3,” with its agitated harp sounds, serves as a reminder that beauty often coexists with discomfort.
A Celebration of Collaboration
What truly elevates Endlessness is the sense of community embedded within its fabric. Sinephro has cultivated a circle of talented musicians from South London’s jazz scene, and their contributions breathe life into the album. The synergy among the players creates an atmosphere of spontaneity, allowing the music to evolve organically. Each track serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, with different musicians stepping in and out, adding their unique touch while maintaining a cohesive vision.
As we listen to Endlessness, we’re reminded that music is more than just sound—it’s a shared experience that transcends boundaries. Sinephro’s work encourages us to engage with the present moment, to let go of our preconceived notions, and to embrace the unknown.
Conclusion: Embrace the Flow
Nala Sinephro’s Endlessness is a remarkable achievement that encapsulates the spirit of exploration and innovation in contemporary music. It invites us to reflect on the complexities of existence, encouraging us to float downstream, surrendering to the currents of sound. This album isn’t just our Record of the Month; it’s a journey worth taking—one that resonates with the essence of being alive.
So, close your eyes, shut off your mind, and let Endlessness carry you away.
