Azymuth JID004 Azymuth Artist

The fourth volume of {|Adrian Younge|} and {|Ali Shaheed Muhammad|}'s {|Jazz Is Dead|} series logically spotlights Brazilian jazz masters {|Azymuth|} after colleague {|Marcos Valle|}'s turn on {|JID003|}. At the same time, this convergence enables bassist {|Alex Malheiros|}, drummer {|Ivan Conti|}, and keyboardist {|Kiko Continentino|} to continue their every-few-years studio release schedule. Apocaliptico highlighted the series preview compilation {|Jazz Is Dead 001|}, and here it's focal, a torrential groove that starts with a buzzing bass warning and increases in power until it abates quickly at the 9:30 mark. Although none of the other seven compositions -- all eight are credited to the trio and producers/arrangers {|Younge|} and {|Muhammad|} -- is as dark or dramatic as Apocaliptico, it forecast this set's tougher physicality in relation to {|Azymuth|}'s deep back catalog. That's not to say it's any less inviting. In a sneaky way, it also has the same subtly spirit-lifting effect as a lengthy conversation with a longtime friend. {|Malheiros|}, {|Conti|}, and {|Continentino|} sound at home in {|Younge|}'s Linear Labs workshop of vintage gear, no matter how many elements -- churning rhythm guitar, brass, reeds, additional percussion -- enhance their intuitive interaction. That shines through everything, whether it's the gentler Sumare and Friendship Samba (the latter with a joyful skip that recalls the {|Light as a Feather|} gem Partido Alto), or more driving numbers such as Pulando Corda and Ao Redor Do Samba. Like {|Younge|} and {|Muhammad|}'s other sessions, this sounds familiar and fresh at once, in this case a happenstance 2020 approximation of a mid-'70s {|Azymuth|} date if made in collaboration with {|Fonce|} and {|Larry Mizell|} (a la the Brazilian-flavored moments of {|Bobbi Humphrey|}'s {|Fancy Dancer|}, {|Roger Glenn|}'s {|Reachin'|}, and {|Gary Bartz|}'s {|Music Is My Sanctuary|}). Samba doido meets sky high. ~ Andy Kellman