Danny G Felix - End of Now

 

Released: April 2

End of Now is a kind of unique album in that seems to use its jazz base as a jumping off point for going in a lot of different directions, while using that foundation as the unifying factor behind the whole album. There’s integration with some downtempo, lo-fi hip-hop, and even more experimental elements. “Let’s Fly” is a nice example of this with its subtle little rhythms that feel slightly dub inspired tastefully doused in reverb. It mixes in rather oddly with the horns as the play about in abstract and freeform ways. I found it to be a really neat combination that leaned a little far in the direction of classical jazz but I still found it a really pleasant and inventive listen.  I particularly enjoyed the way in dovetails into the following track, “Final Call” which takes a much more ambient and atmospheric approach while still staying well un that jazz center.

In a similar vein is the track “Do It.” The jazz elements were airy and intricate and sat over this backdrop of earlier dubstep type percussion and sampling. It was something that kind of reminded me of the original works from the likes of Burial with that kind of dark, kind of sexy, kind of off-putting sound that really just hits so many of the right notes. But for all the stuff I did like, there’s was one track that stood out due to being the only one with a guest vocalist, “Mostar.” On the one hand, it’s rather creative and blends a lot of influences together including latin stylings with R&B influences and those jazzy standbys. But I think it comes across as too pop for my tastes, even through I can’t deny how well its been done. 

There’s quite a bit going on in this album and it all springs from the jazz-oriented approach. I personally really enjoyed the more downtempo and ambient influences combined with the jazz elements than anything else. I could listen to “Do It” and “Final Call” over and over again. But there were some moments that had me kind of scratching my head even though I found them well done over all. But the overriding jazz vibes are more than enough to give this album a repeat listen or three.