MEZCLA: In My Mind (UBU0141)

Ubuntu Music is delighted to announce the release of In My Mind, the new EP from the Glasgow-based jazz fusion ensemble, Mezcla. This is the follow-up to their acclaimed album, Shoot the Moon.

Led by bass player David Bowden, Mezcla's distinctive sound mixes different influences, notably jazz, funk, rock and world music. This new offering is an eclectic collection of tracks that wander down different musical avenues.

David explains: “This EP is both the next step for the band and a foray in several different directions.  It could be seen as a sampler of what is to come from us in the future. Across the four tracks we have a collaboration with incredible singer Luca Manning, inspiration from anime, a piece based on Kazuo Ishiguro literature and a live recording, together showcasing the full range of the band’s sound. We hope that people enjoy it!”

 The title track, a collaboration with singer Luca Manning, is a poignant exploration of youthful desire and self-discovery, set against Mezcla's trademark fusion sound. David and Luca wrote the song during lockdown, mainly using WhatsApp voice notes. David would come up with chordal bass guitar grooves and Luca would sing melodies and lyrics over the different sections. The track was premiered in an online duo performance for the 2021 Edinburgh Jazz Festival, but always felt as if it would suit the full band.

Jiraiya builds on the Mezcla sound established in their debut album, with catchy melodies, heavy rhythm section grooves, and improvisation. The track is named after the band leader's favourite character from the popular anime series Naruto - Jiraiya the toad sage.

Klara and the Sun, the third track of the EP, represents something of a departure from Mezcla’s previous music, exploring more ambient sounds and a range of textures. It is inspired by the dystopian novel of the same name by Kashuo Ishiguro and features a stirring trumpet solo from Joshua Elcock.

Rounding out the EP is a live version of Malarone Dreams - one of the first compositions written for Mezcla and a staple of the live set. It was written after a trip to Ghana where David had strange dreams after taking Malaria tablets. This performance was recorded live at the Glasgow Jazz Festival and showcases the band’s electrifying live sound.

David describes his relationship with Ubuntu Music: “After the experience of releasing our debut album, there was no doubt in my mind that Ubuntu was the right place to continue our journey. Martin (Hummel) has always been so supportive and it’s a pleasure to work with him. The Ubuntu roster is ever-growing and we’re very happy to be part of this diverse family of artists.”

Martin Hummel, Director of Ubuntu Music, concludes: When I was first introduced to Mezcla and their unique sound I described them as a growing dynamic of progressive jazz that refuses to be easily categorised by conventional terms. Their debut album is a testament to this. ‘In My Mind’ reinforces this and takes it to another level - bolder, braver, more confident, and even more diverse. David and his band fly the Scottish flag high, for the world to enjoy. This EP represents a logical progression in their journey to stretch the boundaries of what we call jazz. It’s a joy to have them continue in the Ubuntu Music Family.”