Well, hello again. Now no stranger to the Musical Advent, Scrimshire makes an appearance for the second successive year. And deservedly so, because for the second year in a row he has released an album of undoubted quality.
Released on Albert’s Favourites, Nothing Feels Like Everything has a different vibe from 2020’s Believers Vol. 1. It’s more reflective and laid back – possibly a reaction to the set of circumstances faced this year? There are more instrumental tracks and it’s a collection choc-full of thoughtful collaborations. Still the same delicious blend of jazz and soul, however.
The lead single and opening track is the totemic, Cleveland Watkiss voiced, The Pile. This incredible, rich slice of Bobby Womack-esque soul carries a potent message. “How could you not notice/who sits at the bottom of the pile?” Few albums this year are introduced so spectacularly.
Of course, there are plenty other highlights. The divine Heron, featuring the gorgeous voice of Miryam Solomon, flows out of the speakers like honey. The blistering horn of Soothsayers’ Idris Rahman blazes a trail through Love In Dreams. The distinctive soprano sax of Nat Birchall dances atop I Hear You, I See You.
So many highlights. Nothing Feels Like Everything is an album that you will never tire of. Every day, it seems to bring something fresh. As I said in my review for Louder Than War, adding this album to your life will make the coming winter of discontent feel a little bit warmer.
the dark flux 