A Humdrum Star

AlbumFeb 09 / 20189 songs, 50m 45s
Nu Jazz Jazz Fusion
Popular

This UK trio deals in spacious harmony and driving rhythm, drawing in listeners with hypnotic, open-ended song forms and the kinds of beats and sonic elements one hears in electronic music. Pianist Chris Illingworth, bassist Nick Blacka, and drummer Rob Turner, along with the strength and virtuosity of their individual sounds, have developed a seamless blend and a way of conveying musical grandeur. The complex arc of \"Strid\" and the looping, asymmetric funk of \"Bardo\" and \"Reactor\" are among the highlights.

9 / 10

A Humdrum Star is a stunning piece of music making, and almost certainly GoGo Penguin’s best work.

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8 / 10

GoGo Penguin’s new album ‘A Humdrum Star’ could scarcely come at a more opportune time for British jazz. Countless press inches have

55 %

Largely avoids both the virtues and the pitfalls of jazz.

Album Reviews: GoGo Penguin - A Humdrum Star

Successful Manchester trio's contemporary fusion grows outside the jazz shadow. Album review by Matthew Wright