There’s a good chance you may have never listened to Icelandic Afro-Latin music fusing Bossanova, afro-beat, and jazz resulting in a sound that is both nourishing and uplifting. Issamwera will gladly introduce you to this blend of worlds as the Icelandic band’s first single titled “Ástin mín” (translation: my love) is a meditative journey through exceptional musical performances boasting rhythmic drums, warm and tasteful bass lines, clean grooving guitars, and elegant vocals that are all working in a beautiful unison.
The jazzy record begins with the Bossanova trademark guitar rhythm driving the song as a synth pad sits in the background while the afro beat drums fill the soundspectrum with percussion and kits. The lead vocals feel warm and gentle as they grace the song with sincerity. Flutes and e-pianos appear in different instrumental breakdowns displaying their jazz backgrounds, while adding hints of other genres to this world of sound that Issamwera has created with their instrumentation.
The free form structure that is a staple within historical afro-jazz music is crafted really well, never rushing any moments and allowing all the instruments and voices to have their spotlight, which is a tribute to the communal nature of African music that has captured people’s hearts since music was ever shared.
There is a lot of heart in the composition. This is a song you could easily play as the sun sets and you want to unwind. The hypnotic nature of the repetitive chords alongside the rhythmic changes and soloing instruments creates a neat juxtaposition of jazz and Afro-Latin layers.
“Ástin mín” is a wonderful tune that can hold its own through many decades of music. Paying homage to its influences while creating something unique is an impressive feat by Issamwera and we can’t wait to hear what’s next.
Written by Jon Kagan
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