A significant challenge musicians face is to be themselves.
Defy the mainstream.
The new trends.
The tried-and-tested.
And instead, create individual forms of expressions from a range of influences. It’s this truth listeners like myself relish so when I hear it, it’s pure joy.
Danish trio Athletic Progression was, until a few days ago, a new name to me and their music fresh to my ears. On further inspection, I realise I might have been a little late to this band as their social media following already contained a host of names and personal friends.
The band of Danes consist of Jonathan Jull Ludvigsen on drums, Jonas Cook on keys and Justo Gambula on bass.
And hands up, they have already piqued my interest with the album name – Dark Smoke.
Jazz, soul, and hip-hop influence the collection of nine songs. It takes you on a gorgeous journey with rap, instrumentals, and soulful vocals.
The album opens with the immediately immersive Cloudy Day featuring the captivating vocal presence of Minna Forouzandeh. As an opening track, it’s a winner. Minna also features on several tracks, such as Battlefield, Dark Smoke and Cut to the Cheese, and carries each into the highly seductive genre of lo-fi/neo-soul. Elegant, and dreamy and all enthralling.
Between these sumptuous singles, the band produced two modern hip-hop tracks of high listenable quality. UK Rapper Isatta Sheriff spits rhymes, fluidity, and sassiness on Stepney Tale. Her life is reflected in engaging verses. And the single – Stay Mellow features fellow Dane Blacc El, who delivers a smoother rap with a Q-Tip, Arrested Development flow style. There are 5.41 minutes here to savour.
Interluded between these tracks are three instrumentals, Danish Design Part 1 & 2 and Club Berlin, demonstrating their jazz-influenced roots with edgy beats, electronic keys, and samples. The groove on these is endlessly playable.
Each track earns its inclusion and announces Athletic Progression as a band with an exceedingly bright future.
Dark Smoke is an album to inhale, absorb and enjoy.
Released by Super Bad Disco / HHV Records on all digital platforms, you can also purchase a vinyl copy here:
https://www.hhv.de/shop/en/item/athletic-progression-dark-smoke
The Review
Undoubtedly the best of the year...so far!
Review Breakdown
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4.5
