We previously featured Ari Joshua, Joe Doria and Brad Gibson as they sent us astral with the cinematic and transcendental Suncatchers Version of Audio Bicycle Day, so we wanted to follow up with a detailed review of The Ari Joshua Quartet edit of the song. By now, you will know that we are huge fans of the visionary composer, and needless to say, this version of Audio Bicycle Day was nothing short of a masterpiece.
The track opens with textured, rolling drum riff from Polyrhythmics drummer Grant Schroff, setting a foundation that is both captivating and hypnotic. The drums create a subtle yet powerful momentum, rolling like waves and inviting us to dive into the sonic landscape that the band is about to unfold.
As the drums establish the groove, Ari Joshua‘s guitar emerges with a boundless, immersive energy. His playing is fluid and exploratory, weaving intricate melodies and sharp riffs that glide effortlessly over Schroff’s steady pulse. Joshua’s guitar is the first to introduce the track’s psychedelic edge, blending both sharpness and fluidity as it gradually builds in intensity. His sound is a perfect balance between the adventurous spirit of classic psychedelic rock and the modern edge of contemporary jazz, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
Then comes the entrance of Skerik’s saxophone, which bursts onto the scene with a sublime, inventive performance that pushes the composition into new realms. Skerik’s phrasing is as imaginative as it is emotive, his saxophone painting vivid sonic landscapes that are at once familiar and otherworldly. His solos are a highlight of the track, providing a sense of spontaneity and freedom that adds to the overall psychedelic vibe. The saxophone weaves through the organ and guitar lines, at times leading, at times following, creating an ebb and flow that keeps the listener engaged and eager for what’s next.
The composition further expands with Delvon Lamarr‘s Hammond organ, his molten riffs adding a rich, soulful layer to the mix. Lamarr’s organ playing is both gritty and elegant, melding seamlessly with Joshua’s guitar to create a sound that is warm and inviting, yet full of depth. His organ swells and ripples through the track, adding a timeless, cinematic quality that elevates the entire piece. The interaction between Joshua’s guitar and Lamarr’s organ is particularly mesmerizing, as they play off each other, each instrument enhancing the other’s lines in a dynamic dialogue that is both playful and profound.
As the track progresses, the band showcases their unrivaled cohesion, operating like the gears of a finely tuned machine. The composition flows effortlessly between solos and ensemble sections, with each instrument taking turns in the spotlight while contributing to the overall unity of the piece. Schroff’s drumming anchors everything with hypnotic precision, his grooves locking the entire affair firmly in place, yet allowing each musician the freedom to explore and express.
The interaction between the organ and saxophone is particularly dynamic, with the two instruments engaging in a playful call and response, each pushing the other to new heights. This interplay, combined with Joshua’s inventive guitar work and Schroff’s steady drumming, creates a soundscape that is as groovy as it is mind-bending. The track is a perfect blend of retro soul, funky rhythms, and subtle psychedelic flair, with each element enhancing the others to create a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.
The production, expertly handled by Jason Gray, ensures that each element of the track shines while maintaining a cohesive overall sound. Doug Krebs’ mastering adds a polished finish that enhances the organic feel of the performance, making sure that every note resonates with clarity and warmth. The striking artwork by Deep Groove Designs perfectly encapsulates the track’s psychedelic and timeless nature, adding a visual layer to the auditory experience.
Audio Bicycle Day is a seamless blend of deep bass grooves, intricate guitar work, and cascading sax melodies, creating a soundscape that moves the body and elevates the mind. It’s a track that captures the essence of a carefree day, perhaps spent biking along sun-dappled streets or lounging by the beach, yet it also has the depth and complexity to serve as the score for a cinematic journey.
In the broader context of Ari Joshua’s ambitious plan to release 24 singles in 2024, ABD stands as a significant achievement. Following the success of earlier releases like Tagine and One Dub, this track further solidifies Joshua’s place as a leading force in the modern funk and soul scene. With over 250,000 streams and growing, Audio Bicycle Day is another triumphant step in his creative journey, offering a deep dive into the world of organ funk that is as satisfying as it is intriguing.
We have added Audio Bicycle Day to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream Ari Joshua’s various projects, and anticipate future releases from the mind-bending sonic artist!