Handpicked by James Moss

The Olllam – The Olllam [Compass Records; 2012]
Where traditional, modern, instrumental and pop music finds harmony! This album should never have been made – how did world-renowned Irish Uilleann piper John McSherry and funk bassist Joe Dart of Vulfpeck join forces? On the surface, these are simple song structures, and there is serene movement between tracks but, the more you invest in this album, the more you will get back. This album that took a chance and it paid off.

Boubacar Traoré – Mali Denhou [Lusafrica; 2011]
This album makes you feel close enough to hear the breath of each musician and feel the vibrations of an acoustic guitar as if you are playing it. The craftsmanship of the arrangements on Mali Denhou is unparalleled, and the motifs flow from harmonica, balafon, guitar and voice so effortlessly it seems as though one player is playing all the parts. This is the pinnacle of unison and harmony.

Vulfpeck – Thrill of the Arts [Vulf Records; 2015]      
Master songwriters Vulfpeck have gained a loyal following for their infectiously joyful music. They are a beacon for musicians as they play exactly what they want including four-and-a-half-minute bass-led tracks and a clarinet trio instrumental section along with a raucous sax solo and a guided meditation. Their virtuosity as musicians bridge the gap between hipster musos and the pop-loving masses.

Bonobo – Black Sands [Ninja Tune; 2010]
Black Sands was a seamless transition from more live feel Bonobo albums like Days to Come to more production heavy The North Borders. With his experience as a DJ with a keen ear, consuming records and sampling choice parts, when Bonobo (Simon Green) turns his hand to writing the songs are smooth while secretly complex. Guest singers like “The Keeper’s Andreya Triana with her mellifluous voice and heavy bass tracks like “Kiara” this album holds up as a monumental album for electronic music.

BCUC: Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness – The Healing [Buda Musique; 2019]
Soweto group BCUC is the most engaging live band going. With two bass drums, percussion, bass and seven voices, they play ritualistic music that grabs your soul and brings it up until you feel part of something enormous. Songs that roll into each other with magnetic performance energy, The Healing is a religious offering the listener is lucky to be a part of.