The Jazz Defenders
iti Records, 2024, CD
Instrument: Instrumental
Issue: 30.3
Jazz Ruler Type: R&B+Jazz
Performance: 5
Sound: 3
Score: 91
O’s Notes: The Jazz Defenders are George Cooper (keyboards, vibes, perc), Nick Malcom (t), Jake McMurchie (sax), Will Harris (b), and Ian Matthews (d), an energetic UK-based, contemporary jazz band. The Defenders have soul, funk, R&B and jazz, all rolled up in a fine package. They open with “Meanderthal”, a tune that reminded us of the Jazz Crusaders. UK rapper Doc Brown adds spoken word on “Rolling on a High”, followed by the lazy, mysterious “Take a Minute”. We enjoyed the syncopation on “Net Zero”, and the refreshing “Enigma” recorded live in Paris featuring George Cooper and Will Harris, a fitting finale to a great session.
Publicist: Michael Dion
