Kamasi Washington
Fearless Movement

Kamasi Washington has established himself as quite literally a giant of contemporary Jazz over the last ten years. His 5th studio album ‘Fearless Movement’, partly inspired by the recent arrival of his daughter, is his most concise of all his albums. Whilst there are
still strong elements of the expansive orchestral elements that have become characteristic of Kamasi’s sound, this record takes on a more grounded approach with the focus more on smaller ensembles and guest contributors, with the album featuring appearances from Andre 3000, George Clinton, Thundercat, Terrace Martin and Dwight Trible just to name a few, plus many of his regular band. The opener ‘Lesanu’ is 9 minutes of pure vibe; Kamasi’s blistering sax competing with Brandon Coleman on keyboards and Organ, Cameron Graves on Piano over the driving rhythm of Miles Moseley’s bass, the drumming of Thundercat’s brother Ronald Bruner Jr and Toney Austin to create an amazing full sound. Patrice Quinn adds some really soulful vocals on the mid tempo ‘Computer Love’ that provides a nice contrast to the intensity of some of the other tracks. Andre 3000 features on flute in ‘Dream State’ which has a really nice feel. BJ The Chicago Kid vocalizes on the mellow ‘Together’. ‘The Garden Path’ is an incredible track ft his father Ricky
Washington on flute, and some nice trumpet and trombone playing. ‘Road To Self’ is 13 minutes of beautiful music, and the 7 minute ‘Lines In The Sand’ also remains interesting and demands attention. Another strong album from our music’s talisman, maybe not quite as revolutionary as ‘The Epic’ or ‘Heaven On Earth’ but still great music.