In terms of D.I.Y. musicians and bands, BADBADNOTGOOD may be the most unique. With an offering of jazzercised hip-hop beats, and now with a lot more originals, BBNG move forward to present an aural image of where this band is going. From the bands first LP, BBNG001, they put forth the unique concept that they continue to explore and improve upon on their latest LP: Jazz infused Hip-Hop sounds from some classic and new Hip-Hop artists. This time around more original material surfaces from the band, further evolving what is already a stellar conept.

Matthew Tavares, Chester Hansen, and Alexander Sowinski prove that jazz doesn’t have to be a facsimile of past tropes and influential styles. Jazz can take on new sounds, new styles, and not have to conform to the past. With the ability to self produce, and mix their records, BBNG don’t really have to conform to a record labels demands and thus experimentation is born. It’s a lot to say about a band who, on top of two LPs also have two live releases in their discography, and both kick an equal amount of ass as their studio LPs.

The album opens with and Odd Future cover of “Earl.” Here the song begins with a driving bass distortion and crisp drum sound that leads into a slick groove from an electronic bass. From there the song builds until it hits the sax solo, performed by Leyland Whitley. Whitley is given time to play it out. After a while, that driving rhythm from the beginning of the song kicks back in and accompanies the sax on out. The record features four three to five lettered songs that connect in a sort of movement – “CHSTR,” “UWM,” “DMZ,” “CMYK” – that spans approximately 20 minutes and through a number of soundscapes. The track, “Flashing Lights,” a Kanye West song, is the records most intricate cover song. The songs cinematic exploits contrasted against the bands simpler instrumentation fit together like a puzzle.

Over the course of the album, BBNG prove that they are the hardest working band in the jazz scene right now. Their constant movement from sound and style only prove how and where this band can take its concept to newer heights. In the evolutionary circle, expect more experimentation, more insightful covers, and more solid records.

Album Rating: Buy It on CD or Vinyl

Listening Co-efficient:  Active Listen

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