Formerly Chicago, and now Hawaii-based percussionist, composer, and producer Makaya McCraven has just released an incredible expansive new full-length album, titled In These Times, that has been over seven years in the making.

Following the groundbreaking 2015 debut release, In The Moment, this brilliant 11-track song suite has been in the works, even as McCraven has put out six additional acclaimed recordings. This record continues to build and expand on the elements and foundation present in all of his previous releases, including his now signature production process that involves remolding a mixture of studio-based recorded material, samples, and live instrumentation. The music, which combines lush string arrangements, spiritual meditative jazz grooves, and McCraven’s edit-heavy “organic beat music” was recorded in five different studios and four live performance spaces, along with numerous of hours of post-production work.

The large ensemble work features a phenomenal cast of musicians (16 total), including a number of frequent collaborators like guitarist Jeff Parker, bassist Junius Paul, harpist Brandee Younger, vibraphonist Joel Ross, and trumpeter Marquis Hill.

Remarkable from start to finish, McCraven has arguably released his most complete and greatest work to date, and continues to make his mark as one the most-forward thinking artists in music today.

Makaya McCraven — ‘In These Times’
(International Anthem/ XL Recordings / Nonesuch Records)

1. In These Times
2. The Fours
3. High Fives
4. Dream Another
5. Lullaby
6. This Place That Place
7. The Calling
8. Seventh String
9. So Ubuji
10. The Knew Untitled
11. The Title

BUY RECORD

• Cosmic
• Jazz
• Jazz Funk
• Spiritual Jazz