Simon Green, AKA Bonobo, is an artist very much at the peak of his significant powers. His 2010 album ‘Black Sands’ was the high watermark of his career to date; a masterful record, marrying Green’s inimitable melodic genius to cutting edge electronics, bass and drums. Black Sands went on to sell over 160,000 copies worldwide, and since its release, Bonobo has toured the world with his live band, wowing audiences of thousands at a time with the hypnotic, extended live versions of the album’s tracks. ‘The North Borders’ is another long stride forward – both a natural evolution and a continuation of the electronic palette of Black Sands. Thematic, resonant, addictive and perfectly formed, it’s a thrillingly coherent statement piece. With vocal features from no less than Erykah Badu, as well as Grey Reverend (Cinematic Orchestra) and Cornelia (Portico Quartet) it’s another finely balanced body of work, leaving room for the beautiful, rich productions themselves to breathe and shine. http://bonobomusic.com/
If anyone ever doubts whether New York City has what It takes to continue being an electric hub of culture and art they need look no further than The band Cibo Matto. Spanning two generations of indie royalty, playing with the Beastie Boys in the 90s, John Zorn in the 2000s and now having Weezer open up for them in Los Angeles in 2014 (Rivers Cuomo learned all his songs in Japanese), this band not only stands the test of time, they are a cornerstone of this city’s vitality and relevance. Although no one can forget their debut LP, Viva La Woman, their new album Hotel Valentine makes you feel like you’re discovering this innovative duo for the first time! This is the very antithesis of a one hit wonder, the band is without a doubt better than ever! And for those who were lucky enough to see them the first time around, you’ll have bragging points when they bring down SummerStage in Central Park. This is a show not to be missed. The buildings will be turning into coconut trees, and you might be feeling a bit of, ‘Deja Vu,’ make sure to bring plenty of ‘Sugar Water.’ http://www.yeahbasicallycibomatto.com/