Highly Recommended

José James - Blackmagic
(2010 / Brownswood Recordings)
neo-soul / nu jazz

In the wake of a tremendous remix package featuring Joy Orbison and Untold, José James drops his second album, boasting production from Moodymann, Flying Lotus and Taylor McFerrin. James is currently being hailed as the saviour of soul jazz vocalists, garnering massive praise across the board from the NY Times to the Guardian, and most importantly Gilles Peterson, who's responsible for nurturing his talent on his own Brownswood Recordings. The Flying Lotus produced title track is one of many highlights on 'Black Magic', catering a gorgeous deep soul beat for his smoky baritone, while Kenny Dixon Jr excels himself on the sensuous late-night mahogany vibes of 'Detroit Loveletter'. However, unlike the retro-vintage soul of current hero Mayer Hawthorne, James ain't afraid to lend himself to up-to-date future soul beats like the crushed bounce of 'Made For Love' or the Mala-esque keys of 'Warrior', while maintaining a solidly classic rooted vibe throughout. This set run fathoms deep and should be recommended to all fans of high-class modern soul and jazz. (boomkat.com)

My Rating: 8/10