Times 4 | Relations
** Times 4 | Relations
When I hear about or see new music that’s immersed in a blueprint of attractive grooves anchored by the spirit of creativity, innovation, and encircled by intense melodies then I’m usually drawn in hook line and sinker. As you know, the Internet as usual is full of surprises, a couple of years ago I fortunate enough to stumble into this compelling new group called “Times 4.” The band features the multifaceted saxophonist Lincoln Adler as leader, composer, producer, and founder of the ensemble, which by the way hails from The Bay Area, releases they’re critically acclaimed second album as a group titled “Relations.”
I’m sure it’s no surprise to you, in today’s changing music landscape, artist’s especially jazz musicians seriously struggle more often then not to get signed and heard even by their own fan base not to forget with hopes of gaining new listeners. However, at this stage it’s truly a blessing to see and hear artist staying true to their music! In this case, music that’s tailor-made to stretch, bend, and twist your mind, body, and soul with each spin!
Out of the box, this group comes out swinging for the fence with a slammin’ and funky vibe titled “MO.” The quartet serves up a more then appetizing beginning followed by a palate of ten sizzling tracks attached to flexible interplay, which contains a tantalizing mixture of jazz, funk, Latin, melodic, and urban grooves capped off with a hint of hip-hop entangled in their one voice makes for a gratifying listening experience. Now, if you’ve been craving a tasty blend of contemporary jazz as aforementioned, or you’ve simply been savoring challenging music that elevates beyond the perspective of what radio consultants want you to hear. Then I’m quite sure “Times 4,” has the near perfect antidote waiting on the shelves at a record store near you titled “Relations.”
Rob Young
The Urban Music Scene