Origin Records artist: Anthony Branker & Other Ways of Knowing - Manifestations of a Diasporic Groove & Spirit - New Release Review
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 in...