Bernell Jones II

Typewriter

Self-Released, 2024

9/10

Listen to Typewriter

A Memphis native who now calls New York City home, the saxophone extraordinaire Bernell Jones II brings along plenty of friends for these 13 lively tracks that are full of fusion ideas.

The bright and soulful “Baby Mama” begins the listen with Miles Lennox’s warm keys and Josh Green’s cozy drums alongside soundbites from The Maury Povich Show, and “Fast Ish” follows with Steve Duran’s bouncy bass and Jones’ animated sax making for an infectious energy.

Further along, “Brand New” welcomes Jazmine James’ silky smooth vocals and Jonathan Muir-Cotton’s funky bass to the R&B nods, while “We Didn’t Ask For This” spotlights Christian DeMarco’s fluid electric guitar amid some dreamy bouts and plenty of stylish interaction.

Close to the end, “Kat” uses soothing vocal scatting and elegant sax, plus buzzing synth and strategic bass for the calming atmosphere, and “Gym Rat” exits with a quick blast of dense piano, lively sax and thumping drums that touches on rock nods before abruptly finishing.

Even though he was just 26 years old on this recording, Jones plays like a seasoned vet and even handles flute, electric piano, synthesizer, synth bass and vocals, too. He’s already worked with legends like Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean and Philip Harper, and at the rate he’s going, his gospel, jazz, blues, R&B and funk hybrid could make him a household name as well.

Travels well with: Funkwrench Blues- Soundtrack For A Film Without Pictures; Emmett Goods- Another Level