For some time now, contemporary jazz has found its focal point along the imaginary axis between Chicago and London. These two metropolises, separated by the Atlantic, have given birth to the brightest talents of our time, capable of reinterpreting the music of their forefathers for future generations. Makaya McCraven, a protagonist in this movement, stands out as an innovator of the genre. With notable albums such as “Universal Beings” and “Deciphering The Message,” and “re-imaginations” as seen in the case of Gil Scott Heron’s “We’re New Here,” McCraven presents us with another masterpiece with “In These Times.” Released shortly after his previous work in 2021, the album once again confirms his musical inspiration and curiosity, always ready to explore new sounds and paths.
“Marquis Hill Blacktet 27 oktober 2017 BIM Amsterdam – Makaya McCraven (51337549505)” by Dirk Neven is licensed under CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/?ref=openverse.
The lead singles, released in July, already hinted at high quality, but it is in listening to the entire album that its excellence is revealed. The title track begins with echoes of Yes and Alice Coltrane, while tracks like “The Fours” raise questions about the possible influence of Madlib behind McCraven. The musical journey progresses seamlessly through tracks like “High Five,” “Dream Another,” “This Place That Place,” and “So Ubuji: Priceless.” “In These Times” flows smoothly, without dips in tension or flaws, confirming Makaya McCraven’s mastery in the contemporary jazz landscape. An album that not only meets expectations but also attests to the need for a new musical chapter from this extraordinary artist.
