Nubya Garcia, Fortify Review

In the ever-evolving sonics of contemporary jazz, a new single has captured the spirit of innovation and cross-genre stimuli called “Fortify” by Nubya Garcia. Presenting a blend of rhythmic complexity and melodic warmth, the track is built with Garcia’s skill as a saxophonist and her quartet’s exceptional synergy.

The track’s production, helmed by Kwes, is instrumental in imbuing Garcia’s saxophone with a modern-day quality that invites listeners into a space where genres coalesce. Garcia’s melodic storytelling, marked by its warmth and compelling energy, is supported by the quartet’s tight, dynamic interplay, showcasing a level of musicianship that is liberating from the confines of straight-ahead jazz.

From the outset, “Fortify” challenges the listener with its intricate polyrhythms and harmonic rhythm, deftly symbolizing life’s tumultuous ebb and flow. Garcia, alongside Daniel Casimir on double bass, Deschanel Gordon on keys, and Sam Jones on drums, crafts a developing vehicle for Garcia to explore and solo over.

“Fortify” for its innovative approach to jazz, noting its blend of hip-hop beats, South African rhythms, and contemporary jazz harmonic elements. The track balances technical brilliance and emotional resonance, offering a path through which Garcia seeks to inspire strength and protection amidst chaos. This narrative depth and the quartet’s nuanced performance make “Fortify” a true find coming from the creative UK jazz scene.

Yet, the personal touch Garcia adds to “Fortify” truly sets it apart. The single is described as a meditation on resilience, a theme that resonates deeply in today’s world. Garcia’s exploration of what it means to find strength and create sanctuaries of joy and release within music is a powerful reminder of jazz’s capacity to heal and inspire.

Nubya Garcia’s “Fortify” is a compelling testament to contemporary jazz exploration and expression. With its innovative sound, emotional depth, and Garcia’s distinctive saxophone playing leading the way, “Fortify” invites us all to find our strength and sanctuary within the boundless realms of music. That’s the short of it!