Kamasi Washington is among the most original voices in jazz today, but his sound is wholly a collaboration; each of his band members pulls incredible weight to support its leader’s vision. One of them, Brandon Coleman, more funkily dubbed “Professor Boogie,” is delivering his own record via Fly Lo’s Brainfeeder imprint come September. Though its protest-tinged title is Resistance, the music is inspirational and inspiring, very much in line with — but not imitative of — what Washington has been exploring throughout his musical career.
The lead single, “Giant Feelings,” was written in the spirit of joint playing, a celebratory anthem propelled by Patrice Quinn’s vocals. You might have heard it live during one of Washington’s sets. The way the track combines influences from various genres speaks to the undeniably hybrid nature of Coleman’s America, no doubt where this particular letter is being addressed.
Below, peep Coleman’s video for “Giant Feelings,” featuring Patrice Quinn, Techdizzle, some sweet keytar action, and naturally, Kamasi himself. Grab Resistance September 14 on Brainfeeder.
Resistance tracklisting:
01. Live For Today
02. All Around the World
03. A Letter to My Buggers
04. Addiction (feat. Sheera)
05. Sexy
06. There’s No Turning Back
07. Resistance
08. Sunday (feat. N’Dambi)
09. Just Reach For the Stars
10. Love
11. Giant Feelings
12. Walk Free