Bonobo

Sincere and loving appreciation is owed to Ninja Tune once again, this time for Bonobo's fourth studio LP on the label. Black Sands takes us down deep, textured paths to glimmering soul visions of trip-hop and jazz. If an introduction is needed, Bonobo is principally Simon Green. The man behind production handles live bass, guitars and keys, also bringing a harmonium along for a couple tracks. Other players and performers handle live drums, violins and varied horns. Andreya Triana appears on three of Black Sand's 13 songs, with her rich, gorgeous vocal work. Her melodic jazz voice on "The Keeper" will send shivers down your spine. A beautiful harmony exists on this record via the use of diverse instrumentation in a variety of ratios throughout. Black Sands is warm and organically liquid like a summer rain, thanks to the obvious depth and integrity of skilled musicians.