Music: NÉRIJA – Riverfest/Last Straw (Singles, off their new album Blume, set to be released on the 2nd August via Domino Records)

In terms of jazz releases I’m anticipating in 2019, NÉRIJA’s new album Blume is definitely high on my list. Consisting of Nubya Garcia on tenor saxophone, Sheila Maurice-Grey on trumpet, Cassie Kinoshi on alto saxophone, Rosie Turton on trombone, Shirley Tetteh on guitar, Lizy Exell on drums and Rio Kai on bass, the chemistry between the group has been a joy to hear over the last few years. They have released two new singles ahead of their album release titled “Riverfest” and more recently “Last Straw.”

Both tracks are incredibly soulful and dynamic, with high energy drumming, guitar and bass grooves being meandered between the brass instrumentation throughout. There is an Eastern European influence on “Last Straw,” mainly with the sax and trumpet melodies near the middle of the track. “Riverfest” features some stellar guitar rhythms that are just a joy to listen to as they add so much soul and genuine depth to the music. I can really feel the passion in the music, and that’s the most inspiring thing to hear. Overall this makes me incredibly excited for their new album! Can’t wait to hear it now!

Listen to two new singles NÉRIJA titled “Riverfest” and “Last Straw” below via Bandcamp. They are set to be released on their highly anticipated new album Blume, to be released on August 2nd via Domino Records. Go Support!