BLVCK SPVDE & THE COSMOS
OVERJOYED THROUGH THE NOISE (SPACE SWIRL RED & BLUE VINYL) - LP

UPC: 634457177444
Label: MELLO MUSIC GROUP
Format: LP
Release Date: November 15, 2024
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Ancestor Groove • Infinite • Sun, Moon & Stars • Jazz Funk

Starting a ten-piece band during the height of the pandemic wasn’t easy, but it’s precisely what St. Louis-based musician Blvck Spvde was called to do. Known for his inventive hip-hop, beat-making, and experimental music, Blvck Spvde was deeply inspired by the loss of his father in 2019. This profound event led him to form Blvck Spvde and The Cosmos, a large collective avant-garde jazz ensemble that fuses elements of Afrobeat, rock, and everything soulful. Described by Spvde as an effort to "bring the feel of my dad back in the room and all the things I was raised around that came from him," the band brings a rich, nostalgic energy to their music.

   Blvck Spvde called upon a group of young musicians who shared his surprising love of free jazz. The ensemble includes guitarist Joey Ferber, vocalist Precious Brown, keyboardist Kudda, drummers Dhoruba Shakur and Dorian Simms, percussionist Hodge, saxophonist Vintvge Vibes, trumpeter Josaiah Burton, and arranger/keyboardist Antonio Brown, bassist Albert Marshall. After several years of performing on stages around the Midwest, The Cosmos are releasing their debut album in preparation for their set at one of St. Louis’ premiere festivals, Music at the Intersection.

   Their lead single “Doom” is the first track from a live recording session performed to an intimate audience of friends and family. This session is a continuation of their electrifying set as co-headliners of the debut Laz Jazz Festival held on July 15th, in St. Louis. Brothers Lazaroff, a St. Louis-based roots band led by Jeff and David Lazaroff, produced the festival and sought to capture the energy of the inaugural event by inviting The Cosmos back for a follow-up performance, this time to record it. The music and video were recorded on August 6, at Blank Space, a venue on the Southside of St. Louis co-owned by Spvde himself. "Doom" signifies the official launch of Blvck Spvde and The Cosmos into the digital stratosphere, and the band welcomes you aboard for the journey ahead.

   The primary inspirations behind the album are rooted in Spvde’s personal history and musical heritage. His father, a significant influence, introduced him to jazz and icons like Sun Ra. The scratched records from his father's collection—filled with the sounds of Pharoah Sanders and Sun Ra—became a wellspring of inspiration, symbolizing a deep connection to the past. Spvde’s musical journey was further shaped by contemporary influences like Madlib and Q-Tip, solidifying his artistic tribe and the sound he aspires to create. This influence is evident in "Never Be Another," a resolute affirmation of staying true to one's heart. The song celebrates personal growth and authentic expressions of love, featuring an electrifying drum battle among the band's trio of percussionists—Dhoruba Shakur, Dorian Simms, and Jingo—creating one of the EP’s most climactic and soul-stirring moments.

   Collaborations played a crucial role in shaping the album. The partnership with the Brothers Lazaroff was instrumental, providing not only administrative support but also a creative vision. This collaboration culminated in the production of the album and a meticulously crafted debut music video for "Doom." The mutual belief and trust in the artistic vision fostered a creative environment where the band could thrive. The unexpected challenges, such as the loss of initial recordings, were met with resilience and adaptability, turning obstacles into opportunities for new discoveries. The closing track, "What You Won’t Do," reimagines the Bobby Caldwell classic, serving as Spvde’s introspective ode to love and the complexities of past relationships. The track dissects the successes and failures of romance, offering a candid reflection on the nature of love. Spvde’s approach, often writing to instrumental pieces and responding to existing songs as if they were conversations, adds a layer of depth and dialogue, making this track a poignant exploration of the heart's labyrinth.

   Reflecting on the album's journey, certain tracks and moments stand out as pivotal. The festival performance that led to the live recording session, the powerful basement show, and the nearly sold-out Wednesday night performance in Chicago all contributed to the album's essence. Each experience, especially the early shows during the pandemic, built the foundation for this project. The track "Never Be Another" exemplifies the band's willingness to embrace challenges and push their limits, a mindset that continues to influence their new music. Ultimately, the album is a declaration of the band’s commitment to creating music that transcends mere entertainment. It's about crafting moments of joy, exploring the spiritual depths of jazz, and continuously seeking new sounds and experiences. Blvck Spvde’s journey is an endless beginning, a constant search for fresh, clever, and meaningful expressions that resonate deeply with their audience. The music aims to bring pieces of heaven to earth, forging connections through the universal language of sound.

TRACK LIST:

01 Doom (6:09)
02 Never Be Another (5:32)
03 Overjoyed Through The Noise (5:18)
04 What You Won't Do (5:12)