New tracks by jazz harp progressives Flur added to playlist along with the week’s top music.
The harp is experiencing a resurgence in the realm of jazz music, with a number of instrumentalists like Nala Sinephro, Alina Bzhezhinska, Marysia Osu, and Brandee Younger reviving the legacy of harp pioneers Alice Coltrane and Dorothy Ashby while infusing their own unique blend of ambient electronics, soul, and free jazz. Among these artists is the London-based trio Flur, consisting of harpist Miriam Adefris, saxophonist Isaac Robertson, and drummer Dillon Harrison. This trio brings a fresh perspective to the traditional harp combo by juxtaposing the lushness of the harp’s sound with angular melodies and textured rhythms.
Having gained experience as members of various musical projects including flautist Shabaka Hutchings, producer Floating Points, and vocalist Ganavya, Flur showcases a distinct downtempo restlessness on their debut album, Plunge. Tracks like Nightdiver and Over Under mesmerize listeners with sweeping harp strings, only to be disrupted by Robertson’s atonal saxophone lines that prevent the music from becoming too predictable. The song Bolete blends percussive harp plucking with Harrison’s intricate groove and unexpected synth sounds, while Hold Fast Old Kelp experiments with a minimalist electronic loop that teeters on the edge of disintegration.
What sets Flur apart is their ability to create an atmosphere of anticipation and unpredictability in their music. Their compositions are characterized by a sense of unease that is tempered by a dynamic energy and a laid-back groove. In the hands of this trio, the harp transcends its traditional association with soft and comforting sounds, opening up new possibilities for the instrument’s potential. As they prepare for headline live shows, Flur’s evolution as artists seems limitless, promising even more groundbreaking explorations of the harp’s capabilities.
In addition to Flur, the music scene is buzzing with a host of exciting new tracks from various artists. Alabama Shakes makes a triumphant return with “Another Life,” a soulful composition that builds from tense introspection to a cathartic climax. Meanwhile, the collaboration between Chat Pile and Hayden Pedigo yields “Radioactive Dreams,” a mesmerizing blend of noise and fingerpicked guitar that explores the interplay between darkness and spaciousness. Spoon’s “Guess I’m Fallin in Love” showcases frontman Britt Daniel’s distinctive vocals and driving energy, setting the stage for the band’s 11th studio album.
Other standout tracks include Sofie Royer’s “Auto,” a high-energy pop anthem underscored by new wave guitars and lyrics in German that convey the thrill of fast driving. Kettama and Clouds collaborate on “Sort It Out,” a fusion of speed garage, hardcore, trance, and Bicep-esque chords that offers a transcendent dance experience. Oli XL’s “Conspiracy Girl” featuring Valeria Litvakov captivates with its glitchy English folk sound, setting the tone for the producer’s upcoming album.
In the ever-evolving landscape of music, artists like Flur and the diverse array of tracks released each week demonstrate the boundless creativity and innovation present in the industry. From the reinvention of traditional instruments to the seamless fusion of genres, musicians continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, captivating audiences with their bold and imaginative sonic explorations.