New Brian Jackson in May

Brian Jackson is back. The keyboardist, flautist, singer, composer, and producer, probably best known for his collaborative work with the immortal Gil Scott-Heron, will release a new album in May. In the 70s, they both worked on their unique melange of jazz, soul, and blues with lyrical content reflecting the social and political problems of the time. And thus, came up with important albums like “Pieces Of A Man” (1971), “Free Will” (1972), or “The First Minute Of A New Day” (1975).

Over the years, Brian produced artists like Will Downing, Gwen Guthrie, and Kool & The Gang and released his own solo album “Gotta Play” in 2000 (please check out “Moody Too” and “Yada Yada”). Now he’s back with “This Is Brian Jackson”, out on BBE in May, and produced by Daniel Collás. Brian actually started work on a solo project during the recording of Gil’s 1976 LP “Bridges”. So he asked himself and his producer, how this album would sound like in the 21st century. First single off the album is “All Talk” and at the beginning, it sounds like “In The Bottle” revisited. But it quickly turns into a multifaceted heavy groover with Brian’s vocals front and center, really great songwriting, and thick production. The flute really comes to the fore on the Opolopo Extended Remix, which is one of two works by the Sweden-based producer and DJ. And whereas the Extended version works irresistibly well with its prolonged keyboard work, the Club Remix veers more towards a classic house beat and extra electronic pads and twirls. Both versions burn.

Don’t miss him on tour in April:

April 4: Zurich – Moods
April 5: Mannheim – Alte Feuerwache
April 7: Berlin – Gretchen
May 2: Cheltenham Jazz Festival