Ed Johnson & Novo Tempo’s latest album

Ed Johnson is a seasoned musician with an impressive command of a wide range of styles, consistently demonstrating his ability to flow between classical, R&B, jazz, Afro-Cuban, pop and rock n’ roll. As a singer, comparisons to icons like Ivan Lins, Milton Nascimento, Kenny Rankin and Michael Franks are well-founded.

His smooth delivery and intricate guitar work, paired with the lush, exotic sounds created by his band, Novo Tempo, offer a listening experience that’s at once accessible and profoundly engaging. Critics frequently liken the band’s sound to the enchanting, sophisticated vibes of Airto and Flora Purim, a nod to the band’s ability to merge intricate rhythms and melodic lines into enthralling compositions.

Bringing his music alive on stage alongside his band, Novo Tempo’s lineup benefits from the talents of brass man John Worley, woodwind player Kristen Strom, Scott Sorkin on guitar and mandolin, pianist and singer Jennifer Scott, trombonist Jeff Cressman, bass player Rene Worst, drummer Mark Ivester and percussionist Jeff Busch. Capturing their sound in the studio, the band has crafted three critically acclaimed Brazilian jazz records and now bring us their latest effort with their most recent album titled For Every Living Thing.

For Every Living Thing, released on the Cumulus Records imprint, is a dazzling showcase of Ed Johnson’s exceptional talents as a composer, arranger and performer. Produced alongside Scott Sorkin, a distinguished San Francisco Bay area composer and guitarist, the album features seven original compositions by Johnson with lyrics contributed by Tara Caldwell, Lissy Abraham and Johnson himself. The album also includes captivating renditions of classics such as “Where Or When” by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart, as well as “Lua Soberana” and “Meu País” by Ivan Lins-Vitor Martins. The themes explored throughout the album range from finding joy amidst adversity to environmental stewardship and the enduring power of love.

Opening the record with the bright tones of “Little Baião,” the delicate shuffle of brushed percussion and, piano tones and gentle pop of bass underpin Ed’s rich vocal leads as the arrangement builds with breezy brass tones that sweep you up and take you on a joyous, pop-tinged jazz outing. With intricate instrumental flutters and airy falsetto vocal flourishes, the first track on the record delivers a charming sound that’s sure to put a smile on your face.

Next up, “No Stopping the Beat (New Day Rising)” is brought in by the lilting sway of guitar layers and rhythmic claps before Ed’s smooth voice floats above, lifted by lush backing vocals. It’s a delightful jam full of shimmering sonic chimes and layers of stunning vocals as the arrangement builds to a jumpy energy driven by the roll of drums and vibrancy of brass textures capped by slick sax leads.

Title track “For Every Living Thing” sets an instant Latin groove with uptempo rhythm as Ed spins lively vocal lines to match the urgency in the arrangement. With another display of Ed’s songwriting panache, vocal talent and the exquisite musicianship of his band, it’s a truly special moment on an album that delivers endless enjoyment.

Other highlights include songs like the band’s cover of the Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart classic “Where Or When,” reframing this beloved song in their own way. With a smooth jazz arrangement and elegant vocal work, Ed Johnson and Novo Tempo showcase their knack for reimagining music in a way that retains all the charm of the original while filtering it through their own sonic lens.

“Love as One” slows things down with a graceful blend of delicate guitar plucks, soft percussive elements and silky vocal stretches. Casting an enchanting sound full of blissful melodic writing and developing with stellar lead acoustic guitar work, it’s another spectacular piece of music that draws from the traditions set out before but presented for a modern audience.

Closing the album with two Ivan Lins-Vitor Martins covers, “Lua Soberana” and “Meu País” offer two final outings of upbeat and energising outings to once again puts the impeccable talents of Ed Johnson and his band on full display. From start to finish, For Every Living Thing offers beautiful arrangements, incredible instrumental performances and the alluring draw of Ed Johnson’s voice, resulting in a timeless record from a celebrated artist who continues to operate at the very highest level.

Listen to For Every Living Thing below