Believe it or not, it's been 100 years since the word 'jazz' was conceived. Thanks to its ability to shape-shift with the times, it remains as fresh and exciting as ever; the undisputed Benjamin Button of the music world.
Christian Scott — the New Orleans-born, Grammy nominated trumpeter and composer — is one of those contemporary torchbearers. And to bring things full circle, the Two-time Edison award winning, Grammy nominated trumpeter, composer and inventor is set to release three albums to commemorate the centenary.
Collectively titled The Centennial Trilogy, the series is at its core a sobering re-evaluation of the social political realities of the world through sound. The first release in the trilogy, Ruler Rebel, melds modern trap with West African and New Orleanian Afro-Native American styles.
'Phases' provides the perfect foot-in to the grandiose project. It glides for over four minutes with Scott's precise horn blows puncturing the smoky atmosphere and Sarah Elizabeth Charles' ethereal vocal swirls adding to the reverie.
Christian comes to the UK in July for the Love Supreme Jazz Festival. Pre-order Ruler Rebel here.
Words: Errol Anderson // @errol_and
