Talented South East London multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Emma-Jean Thackray comes through with an exquisite and vibrant new EP titled Ley Lines. Emma-Jean took full creative and musical control with this project,  writing, producing, arranging and mixing all of it.

As one of the members of the Red Bull Music Academy alumni, she is one of the most exciting talents to come out of the London jazz scene in a while. In 2016 she released her critically acclaimed Walrus EP, which was included in Bandcamp’s “Best of Bandcamp Jazz” list in September of that year. Her music has been championed by the likes of Gilles Peterson as well as a plethora of different outlets, and rightly so.

Her compositions are experimental, featuring heavy horn section, keys that give a spiritual feel to the vibe of this album, a string section that adds depth to the sound as well as strong, beautiful vocal performances which are sprinkled throughout on tracks such as “Make Do” and “Lay Lines.” The latter is a groovy, Bossa Nova inspired track with tight-drum patterns, bass-driven grooves and synchronised vocals that give the self-titled track a tribal, soulful feel. The project as a whole does so well to bring out all these rich rhythms that get you dancing. “The End” and “Outro” are unsettling closers to the album, with unsettling synth-leads and off-beat drumming.

As far as jazz releases go this year, Emma-Jean  Thackray is up there with one of the most memorable, for it’s masterful compositions, rich textures and vibrant soulful energy that is addicting to listen to and perfect for the dancefloor.

Listen to impressive new EP Ley Lines below via Spotify and don’t forget to support!