Just wanted to go over some newer albums I have taken a liken to and wanted to share.
I received word in my inbox by the great publication, Wax Poetics, of their debut album release as a label of the group 9dw. Self Titled is due to be released 09/09/09 but pre-orders for limited (1,500 pressings), hand numbered, clear color vinyl are now being taken. If you're like me, and obsess over the collectibility of rare, unique vinyl and dig talented musicians and chill backbeats, you may want to snag a copy. I would compare these guys to Tortoise like grooves colliding with the eclecticism of Aphex Twin, but definitely more funky.
Also, I've recently discovered a contemporary jazz group called Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey. A wonderfully technical yet free flowing ensemble of piano, drums, bass, and slide guitar or lap steel. They often infuse the likes of traditional jazz stylings with modern math or noise rock and even as far as hip hop. You can download their entire current release, Winterwood, for free from their site. Fans of The Bad Plus and technical, progressive, melodic instrumental rock should give these guys a try.
I am going to do write up of Dave Hollands, Conference of the Birds coming soon.