Music: Masur Brown – Shiroi

Mansur Brown is really out here shaking things up within the jazz scene in London. As an integral unofficial member of Yussef Kamaal and their classic Black Focus album, he was come into his own on his debut album titled Shiroi out on Black Focus Records.

The talented guitarist blends genres effortlessly. As a guitarist, he is able to bring some incredibly groovy and gorgeous melodies. All of this is backed by incredible broken-beat hip-hop. He plays the guitar like Thundercat plays the bass. Or Robert Glasper plays the keys. With such conviction and confidence, he is able to craft his own sound effortlessly and delve into a sound that is so uniquely his own. The dynamic beat on “Me Up” is followed up by some crazy psychedelic guitar leads that perfectly interwoven with the rest of the instrumental. He plays like Hendrix in the sense that you could really feel the soul and energy radiating out of his guitar. Technically he is an outstanding guitarist, but it’s much more about the mood he shines through in his music than anything else. Other highlights for me include “Black South” and “Hands Tied,” the latter of which has a trap beat, something unexpected but surprisingly amazing.

This album is just rich in textures, layers and most importantly soul, and a whole lot of it. I find it hard to believe that he’s only 21 as well. Incredible talent and someone to watch for the future. You can listen to Mansur Brown’s debut album Shiroi via Bandcamp below, and don’t forget to support! Released via Black Focus Records.