Jimi Tenor
By: Dream Chimney
The following interview was conducted on April 16, 2024
A total education in sound from the incredible Jimi Tenor. On the week that he releases a full-length album entitled ‘Sensory Blending’ in collaboration with Italian super group Aura Safari up on the exquisite Hell Yeah Recordings, we have the privilege of going back to Jimi’s for the afters post club. The lights are low, the cognac is flowing, and the shoes are well and truly off. This is the playlist.
Edward Kalunga: Bata Wasunga Mulundu
In our tour bus we were listening to a lot of Hugh Tracey's recordings. There's some really lovely music there. This was recorded in the 50's. I think a lot of the music culture that was recorded then has now disappeared, just like everywhere in the world.
Chopi People: Msitso Wa Wuraru
Music from Mosambique. I love the marimba or bailophone that has a rattler in the resonator. Makes a great buzzing sound.
The Stooges: We Will Fall
I guess this track would be perfect after a little bit too hard night out. A feeling of doom fills the rooms, but in a pleasant way.
Mongo Santamaria: Afro American
I love Mongo Santamaria. I know he has done a lot cheezy music but one needs to do a little bit of searching and there are amazing things. This album was rejected by the label originally because it was too jazzy.
Einojuhani Rautavaara: Cantus Arcticus
One of my favorite concert music pieces by the Finnish composer Rautavaara. I actually discovered this one when I was working in New York and heard it on the radio. I managed to hear the name of the composer in the end of the program and I went to buy the CD.
Masaru Sato: Yojimbo
I love Masaru Sato- The composer favored by Kurosawa. Yojimbo is my favorite film music from him. What's funny is that the music was played by a big band, with a couple of strings added in the mix. It really doesn't sound like big band music...and that's why it's so great!
Fela Kuti and Koola Lubitos : Great Kids
Early Fela Kuti. Still high life. I didn't know that Fela was originally a trumpet player. Fela later started to play saxophone since his favorite sax player died and he wanted to start playing like him
Moacir Santos: Off and on
Very cool intro rhythm. This is very easygoing, perfect for sunrise. Great sax solo !
George Duke: Feel
Easily my favorite George Duke track. The synth solo is mindblowing. But of course his vocals are always perfect.
Isao Tomita: Claire de Lune
I have learned to love Tomita. I can't imagine the amount of work that went into making this version of Debussy's Claire de Lune. The synthesized vocal sounds are amazing.
Check out the latest release from Jimi Tenor