On the subject of albums of the year so far, wanted to share a handful of my favorite international releases so far that might not otherwise be on your radar...

(a thread)

Siti Muharam - Siti of Unguja
(Zanzibar)

One of my top releases overall in 2020. Brilliant blend of African and Indian rhythms, expertly orchestrated with mind-blowing percussion. Her voice is transcendent. https://open.spotify.com/album/3PFSo4rIUsm5YPOzxUSYe2?si=-WPwTU7TSjmGGIR_eItecA

Donny Benét - Mr. Experience
(Australia)

Italo-disco vibes served with lots of cheese. Come for "Negroni Summer," stay for "Second Dinner." Really fun album that's been heavy in the rotation https://open.spotify.com/album/5JciB142EQk1vQCw7yWaNI?si=-W4rAIj2QP-aa_8WkvzapQ

Sven Wunder - Wabi Sabi
(Turkey via Sweden)

Brilliant follow-up to Eastern Flowers. Library-oriented jazz-funk with a heavy Far East twist and fascinating instrumentation. https://open.spotify.com/album/3qNJwHJzGkO4D0VOJ4hNeP?si=HcvHvgbiSWm_w1Mieg0J6w

Natalie Greffel - Para Todos
(Germany but Brazilian-influenced)

Jazz infused with samba/MPB elements in an incredibly unique style. Just a really enjoyable listen, through and through, find myself dancing every time I put it on. https://open.spotify.com/album/1vSZ92Z9kIera2HHWM26Fz?si=Q-UbQq_BRUOfJWj7nybdkw

Moses Boyd - Dark Matter
(UK)

Incredibly ambitious debut solo record from one of (if not) the best drummers in the London Jazz Scene. Rightfully nominated for a Mercury Prize, and well-worth a *very* hard listen. https://open.spotify.com/album/4XRA7yDYWSkO5BMvZinESW?si=d8Qh3Eo_QyiQ4m0G4wVdlw