Integral Parts by Brian Blaker

American saxophonist Brian Blaker, a Los Angeles native now firmly rooted in Porto's vibrant music scene, announces "Integral Parts," a transformative new EP set for release in early 2025 through independent label Jazzego. This release marks a decisive turning point for the artist, who has garnered attention through his notable collaborations with acts such as Bardino and Minus & Mr. Dolly.

Recorded at Arda Recorders and produced by João Brandão, "Integral Parts" represents more than just a collection of new material—it's a profound artistic statement that bridges multiple musical worlds. The EP features an exceptional quartet, bringing together Miguel Sampaio, Luís Ribeiro, and Pedro Santos, with special contributions from Rui Martins on synths.

"This release emerges from a period of significant transition," Blaker reveals. "After adapting to Porto's instrumental music scene, I felt compelled to pursue a more unapologetically personal musical direction." The result is a sophisticated fusion of contemporary jazz with modern musical elements, where the deep roots of Black American Music intertwine with contemporary grooves and engaging melodic structures. This approach reflects Blaker's diverse musical journey, from his early punk rock days to his spiritual awakening through John Coltrane's music, and his subsequent evolution through funk, hip-hop, and progressive rock.

The EP's centerpiece, "Time Left," exemplifies the project's emotional depth and musical sophistication. The composition navigates through various stages of grief while maintaining an underlying sense of hope and resilience. It's a perfect encapsulation of Blaker's ability to translate complex emotional experiences into compelling musical narratives.

Drawing inspiration from an eclectic range of influences—from David Bowie's final masterpiece "Blackstar" and Donny McCaslin's groundbreaking work to the innovative sounds of Hiatus Kaiyote, Kneebody, and Robert Glasper—"Integral Parts" creates its own unique sonic universe. The music prioritizes emotional resonance over technical display, though Blaker's masterful saxophone work and his ensemble's tight interplay demonstrate their considerable musical prowess throughout.

The EP explores themes of perseverance, grief, optimism, and freedom, all while maintaining a strong connection to the jazz tradition that Blaker studied extensively at the Stanford Jazz Residency and the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. His experience performing with diverse acts like Vulfpeck and Swift Technique, combined with his immersion in Portugal's contemporary music scene, brings a unique perspective to this release.

Jazzego is a record label from Porto founded by André Carvalho, Hugo Oliveira (Minus & MRDolly) and Rui Martins.

Jazzego is a made-up term which plays with the portuguese word “jazigo” that means tomb. Therefore, intends to bury the music industry ego’s and be the place to lay dead genre boundaries. This mix of influences is the compelling sound of the Jazzego Record Label.

Jazz, but not really.