Why Go?
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
An impressive vocalist with a powerful and diverse set of pipes, Allen Austin-Bishop finds a very interesting place to reside between jazz and pop across these 14 well thought out tunes that aren’t short on grooves.
“Do I Wanna Know?” starts the listen with warm bass plucking from Mayo Yamada, as Austin-Bishop’s soulful wordplay finds a very stylish and electronica friendly climate, and “buffalo ghosts” follows with Katie Edwards’ soulful sax amid the dreamy demeanor of poetic singing.
Nearing the middle, “Memories” showcases Rob Hervais-Adleman’s precise drumming alongside the vivid storytelling in a more haunting delivery, while “Both Sides Now” allows Dorian Ford’s glowing keys to shine in the eloquent and cozy album highlight.
Arriving near the end, “Pass Me Not” shakes and bounces with frisky melody that blends brass, keys, and crisp drums playfully, and “Laugh? I Thought I’d Die” exits the listen with a futuristic vision of charming vocal effects, electronic manipulation and much attention to detail.
Austin-Bishop is quickly making a name for himself in the area of modern jazz, and his conversational moments and nods to pop, funk and electronica, as well as the exceptional players in attendance, makes for a very eclectic and inviting listen.
Travels well with: San Gabriel 7- Under The Stars; Jo Harrop- The Heart Wants