Kuma - Kumadé (2020)

The Swiss-French quartet KUMA, led by Matthieu Llodra and Arthur Donnot, has released the Kumadé EP. Having honed their skills over a nine-year residency at the Cully Jazz Festival, the musicians demonstrate a confident command of dynamics and rhythm. The release is characterized by a stylistic balance: laconic and ethereal compositions akin to the ECM style (Alfama, The Core) are combined with energetic tracks (Kumadé, I.G.A.T.F.) reminiscent of George Duke's 1970s funk-fusion. Critics highlight the high-quality production and the group's innovative approach; despite retro influences, their sound remains relevant and experimental within the contemporary jazz scene.

Matthieu Llodra – Fender Rhodes
Arthur Donnot – Sax
Fabien Iannone - Bass
Maxence Sibille – Drums
Zacharie Ksyk – Trumpet (guest on track 2).

All tracks composed by Arthur Donnot & Matthieu Llodra and arranged by kuma.

Tracklist:
01-01 Kuma - Alfama [5:34]
01-02 Kuma - Kumadé (feat. Zacharie Ksyk) [6:08]
01-03 Kuma - The Core [5:05]
01-04 Kuma - I.G.A.T.F [6:32]