This jazz ensemble has a very interesting vibe. They actually refer to themselves as a spiritual jazz group. Jazz ensemble Menagerie out of Melbourne, Australia has been making the type of jazz music that you can meditate to. They are the brainchild of producer/DJ songwriter, Lance Ferguson. The group features some of the best musicians from Australia and the groove is similar to what we are hearing in jazz today.
Mixing afro-beats, funk, soul, and free jazz movements, its sound is otherworldly. Lance Ferguson who also has several other music projects that he is a part of (The Bamboos, Rare Groove Spectrum, and others) wanted to take contemporary jazz and reach back into its roots and create something new from something old. This concept has been working and has brought it to a new contemporary audience. Artists such as Gregory Porter, Nubya Garcia, and Shabaka Hutchings have also changed the dynamic in attracting new followers to jazz. Their music is a mix of spiritual melodies, jazz grooves with layered horns and funky percussion rhythms, and amazing vocal arrangements. Menagerie made their debut in 2012 with their album, They Shall Inherit, and in 2017 released a 2 track sampler. This past January they released their third album, Many Worlds and it's already getting great reviews. Check out these talented and extraordinary musicians and be prepared to sit back and meditate to its vibe. Support independent music and musicians worldwide. Happy listening
Many Worlds
