Chicago alternative hip-hop group Bonelang seem to want to make hip-hop that sounds like anything but hip-hop. The core duo, MC Samy.Language and producer-vocalist Matt Bones, both split the difference between rapping and singing—they often enunciate their pristine, staccato verses like they’re delivering a solo in choir or talk-singing in a Broadway musical. They also […]
Tag: vibraphone
Posted inMusic
Patricia Brennan makes delicate music for mallets
When used in the improvisatory style pioneered by performers such as Lionel Hampton, the vibraphone is traditionally a clanging, percussive, hard-charging instrument. The marimba is arguably best known for providing the hip-shaking backbone for many traditional Latin musics. New York composer Patricia Brennan takes both instruments in more delicate and less sweaty directions. Her debut […]
Posted inMusic
Vibist Paris Smith is an undiscovered treasure of Chicago underground jazz
On three albums released across three decades, Paris Smith evolved from bebop to spiritual jazz to something uncategorizable involving R&B—and he’s still playing today.
Posted inBlogs
Mattias Ståhl reps the vibe for Europe
The Swedish vibraphonist might be the best the continent has to offer.