Rob Mazurek / Exploding Star Orchestra: Dimensional Stardust [International Anthem/Nonesuch]
Currently based in Marfa, Texas, Rob Mazurek emerged as a Sun Ra–indebted composer and multi-instrumentalist in Chicago’s celebrated jazz scene in the 1990s. He made his new work, Dimensional Stardust, with the expansive freeform Exploding Star Orchestra that he formed in Chicago in 2005. Damon Locks wrote and performed the text for Mazurek’s compositions, and Jeff Parker plays guitar in the ensemble alongside Mazurek, trumpeter jaimie branch, pianist Angelica Sanchez, cellist Tomeka Reid, and several other improv-minded collaborators.
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The ALIAS EP is London artist Shygirl’s follow-up to her 2018 debut Cruel Practice EP. On the new seven-track release, she collaborates with SOPHIE, Sega Bodega, and more. Read Pitchfork’s track review of “FREAK.”
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Badge Époque Ensemble: Self Help [Telephone Explosion]
Longtime Toronto DIY fixture Maximilian Turnbull leads Badge Époque Ensemble on Self Help, their new album that blends together elements of gospel, soul, rock, and funk around a jazz-heavy foundation. Jennifer Castle, who also hails from Toronto, joins the group on “Just Space for Light.” And U.S. Girls’ Meg Remy provides vocals on “Sing a Silent Gospel.”
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Lindstrom / Prins Thomas: III [Smalltown Supersound]
Norwegian producers Lindstrøm and Prins Thomas have reunited for their first collaborative album in 11 years. III follows 2009’s II. The six-song record was announced along with the release of lead single “Martin 5000,” a spacey, seven-minute electronic track. “Our partnership is very democratic,” Prins Thomas said of the album in a press release.
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