New music from the Ari Joshua Quartet

Originally from South Africa and shaped by his time in Seattle, Ari Joshua is a musician and composer whose passion for jazz and improvisation has earned him a reputation as a virtuoso instrumentalist in modern music. From the East Coast, where he received a scholarship to study music, to founding The Music Factory, a platform that has provided nearly 100,000 music lessons, Ari’s journey has been one of constant artistic evolution.

His work in music education and community outreach mirrors the same level of artistic flair he brings to his own creative endeavours. Throughout his career, Ari has made significant contributions to the music world, both as a solo artist and through collaborations with rock legends like Stone Gossard, Michel Shreive, Barrett Martin and Peter Buck, making him as a cherished and revered figure in the music scene.

His versatility as a musician shines through his various collaborations, including his work with the Ari Joshua Quartet and his numerous musical explorations with icons such as John Medeski and Billy Martin. These partnerships have resulted in several incredible releases including “Meeting of the Minds,” “Dragons Layer” and “Country Stroll.”

His latest track, “Praysue,” is a continuation of this journey, showcasing a stunning fusion of classical and jazz influences. Inspired by the memory of Ari’s late grandfather and the town of Przysucha, the song is both a personal tribute and a sonic exploration of history, emotion and ancestral roots. Recorded at the legendary Applehead Studio in Woodstock, New York, “Praysue” distils the timelessness of a bygone era.

The track’s rhythmic pulse, provided by Billy Martin’s drum work and Jason Fraticelli on the upright bass, is brightened by John Medeski’s talent on the keyboards while Ari’s sensational guitar skills ensure this nine-minute voyage is engaging from start to finish. With strings from Phillip Peterson and Petro Krysa, this all-star cast deliver an enveloping musical experience that flows through a deep and cinematic world tinged with Eastern melodies and brought to life by a shimmering arrangement of exquisite musicianship.

Slipping the listener into a mesmeric trance, the first two minutes of the piece see dashes of texture and atmosphere craft an immersive and unique musical world before the instrumentation takes flight to set in motion an extraordinary blend of intricate writing and assured performance. It’s a spectacular display of creativity and takes another step forward in showcasing the expansive sonic output of the visionary Ari Joshua and his collaborators.

Listen to Praysue below