Zach Top Cicero Nights [VINYL]

Adding to the already rich tapestry of jazz-leaning experimental music out of Chicago, multi-instrumentalist, bandleader and composer James Weir shares his first project as Blue Earth Sound. Out this September via Root Records (DeepMatter Records), 'Cicero Nights' consists of eight immersive and transportive instrumentals that manage to evoke both the neon-lit haze of late city nights, and the meditative atmosphere of sunlit daytime strolls, all through the lens of organic, cinematic instrumentals. The 'Blue Earth Sound' name reflects James' Blue Earth County, Minnesota roots, with the music effortlessly melding the golden hour nostalgia of youth with the hardened soulfulness and inclusive experimentation of his adopted Chicago home. Throughout its enveloping tracklist, Cicero Nights boasts an arc - an ebb and flow that feels thoughtful, curated, and easy to lose yourself in. 'Half & Half' takes cues from the Midwest soul of Curtis Mayfield and Donald Byrd, with summery, hook-laden horns from Prizy and Miller marrying with James' buoyant bass lines. Inspired by the 'Hoop Dreams' soundtrack, 'On The Court' adds a boom-bap beat, a cloud of Wurlitzer, and smoky wah-pedal guitars. He shares: "I just wanted to make tunes that a DJ could play at a Chicago bar like Danny's at 8:30 pm that would set a good vibe." His debut album features an incredible cast of collaborators. Engineered by International Anthem's in house engineer Dave Vettraino, it features the likes of Resavoir trumpeter Will Miller, as well as Spun Out bandmate and long-time collaborator Michael Wells.