Afternoons In Stereo - The Silence Between Phrases (2010)

A collective of musicians based in Ontario, Afternoons In Stereo let their many influences shine through on this latest and very lovely album. Taking in nu-jazz, Latin funk and a variety of soulful and downtempo sources, they manage to meld styles perfectly - one listen to "Promise" for example will show their depth and the richness of their songs, taking in St. Germain beats, live double bass and flutes as well as a sun-kissed vocal chorus. Uptempo instrumentals like "West End Satori" are also a delight and give the players a chance to show off their jazz-honed skills. "El Puma" even sounds like a long-lost Kool and the Gang tune and nicely rides a sample from the Lafayette Afro Rock Band's "Hihache". A pleasing mix of styles and full of soul, this is a surprising and hugely satisfying release.