I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release (March 20, 2026), Manifestations of a Diasporic Groove & Spirit, by Anthony Branker & Other Ways of Knowing, and it's complex and intriguing. Opening with The Children of Lyles Station, Anthony Branker is once again creating highly intelligent music with exceptional musicians. Simona Premazzi opens with an interesting piano line, reinforced by Steve Wilson on sax. Premazzi further develops the theme with Rudy Royston on drums and John Hebert lays out an excellent bass solo anchored by the piano vamp and Royston really punching high. Strong opener. Freedom Water March has a real lyrical theme that develops between Wilson and Premazzi. Wilson, on soprano sax, creates a jagged melody, reinforced and elaborated by Premazzi on piano with only light but authoritative support by Hebert and Royston. Aimee Allen sings the intro on Stolen Sisters, and a floating flute melody by Wilson sets the intro. Breaking into a rhythmic, far more structured melody led by Pete McCann on guitar and then Wilson on flute, Premazzi on piano, Hebert on bass and Royston on drums, this track really moves. Allen's "Brazilian style vocals, and a strong solo by Hebert make this one of my favorites on the release. Wrapping the release is Afro Mosaic Soul Babies with it's monster bass line by Hebert and tight drum work by Royston. I really like the delivery by Wilson on sax, contrasting with Premazzi's piano. McCann breaks loose with some exceptional guitar lead really kicking this track. Developing an excellent groove with Wilson, Hebert and Royston, this is a very solid closer.
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