MATTERS UNKNOWN shares new single “Other Side” taken from the forthcoming debut double album ‘We Aren’t Just’ (out October 28) via London imprint New Soil. Led by multi-instrumentalist Jonny Enser – best known for his work as long-standing brass player for celebrated Afro-Jazz collective Nubiyan Twist. MATTERS UNKNOWN has created a wide-ranging double album that channels his concepts of living dynamism and communal practice through a prolific musical compendium.
“Other Side” combines the soulful vocals of Olivia Bhattarchajee with uplifting banks of brass, graceful strings, and groove-rich piano runs on a heartfelt ode to finding strength in adversity.
Describing the concept behind the single MATTERS UNKNOWN says:
Other Side expresses the heartfelt gratitude and pride of overcoming a great obstacle whether spiritual, financial, physical or emotional; these barriers are something we will all come across, some frequently, others occasionally. Faith and devotion to yourself alone over time is what will get you through. The vocals were written by Olivia Bhattacharjee and reflect her personal feelings throughout a difficult period. It feels serendipitous to be released into the world now, it’s the tonic to our journey through living dynamism and it is time, focus, surrender and gratitude that will get us through.
The forthcoming album ‘We Aren’t Just’ boldly encompasses Afro-jazz, celestial blues, soulful funk, electronica, hip hop and more. At its heart is a personal response to the physical and mental pain he has experienced in his life as a musician confronting disability; a coping mechanism alchemised as a universal healing force.
Captivated by the trumpet from an early age, Enser spent years honing his craft alone before beginning a career that has seen him develop alongside a broad range of collaborators, coupled with an ongoing role as a mentor to young musicians. As a member of Nubiyan Twist, the band for whom he composes and provides brass instrumentation, he has collaborated with Mulatu Astatke, Pat Thomas, Tony Allen and Soweto Kinch. His renown and respect within the musical community has enabled him to gather some of the UK’s finest young players for this latest project, including members of Nerija, Emma-Jean Thackray’s band, Noya Rao, Golden Mean and COLECTIVA.
Personnel
Jonathan Enser – Trumpet, Tuba, percussion
Olivia Bhattacharjee – Vocals
Rosie Turton – Trombone
Lyle Barton – Piano, Synthesiser
Alec Hewes – Upright Bass
Matt Davies – Drums
Matt Holborn – Strings