The London and UK Jazz scene has been undergoing something of a renaissance lately, thanks in part to a handful of select labels and up-and-coming artists. One such rising star is the award-winning bassist Daniel Casimir, an alumnus of the Birmingham Conservatoire, and regular fixture on the UK scene, having worked alongside the likes of Nubya Garcia and Art Blakey Jazz Messenger saxophonist Jean Toussaint.
Casimir has teamed up with vocalist Tess Hirst with the duo set to release their debut album These Days on November 1st via the London record label jazz re:freshed. The two initially worked together on Casimir’s 2017 debut EP Escapee. The album is inspired by the duo’s London surroundings and interrogates the current political and cultural landscape through pointed thought-provoking lyricism and a fusion of traditional jazz sounds and contemporary composition.
Ahead of These Days release Casimir and Hirst have dropped “Security”, a first taste of the forthcoming album. According to Hirst it is a comment on a capitalist world and our essential need for protection: ‘“Security” highlights the essential need to trust other people. That our safety lies in the hearts of those around us. London has a record number of security cameras, this track is a comment on the type of security we commission as a society as well as how we protect ourselves personally’.
It’s a powerful track, with the propulsive percussion reflecting the increasingly frantic and frenzied world which we inhabit. It’s also an undoubtedly accomplished work, with each of the featured musicians deploying their skills with precision and guile. Despite the frenzy of percussion, guitar and piano, Hirst’s smooth and soulful vocals cut through neatly, ensuring the song’s message is never lost.
“Security” is available now. These Days is set for release November 1st via jazz:refreshed. You can keep up to date with Daniel Casimir via Facebook, Instagram, and his Official Site. Meanwhile, you can find Tess Hirst on Facebook and Instagram.
