Cherry Peach is a portal into a vibrant, nostalgic world where retro charm and modern sophistication coexist in perfect harmony. This track, a collaboration of virtuosos Ari Joshua, John Medeski, Billy Martin, and Jason Fraticelli, embodies a retro-futuristic aesthetic that bridges the joyous, 8-bit energy of vintage video game soundtracks like Sonic the Hedgehog and Super Mario Bros. with the intricate finesse of modern jazz-funk. The result is a cerebral and cinematic journey that stimulates the intellect while embracing the soul in pure escapism.
From the very first notes, Cherry Peach establishes itself as a playful and cinematic piece, alive with charm and depth. The composition feels like an adventure unfolding, conjuring images of colorful landscapes where rhythm and melody create a narrative of exploration and delight. The intricate instrumentation is a masterclass in collaboration, each musician bringing their unique voice to create a rich and detailed tapestry. Medeski’s organ work is a particular highlight, bubbling with swampy funk tones and cascading into free-flowing flourishes that feel both organic and exploratory. His harmonic layers serve as the foundation, over which Ari Joshua’s fuzz-laden, Hendrix-inspired guitar melodies emerge. At the 40-second mark, a catchy, harmonized melody takes center stage, cutting through the mix with a vocal-like clarity, blending seamlessly with Medeski’s lush organ tones.
Billy Martin’s drumming is a study in controlled chaos, grounding the track in precise grooves while leaving ample space for improvisation. Jason Fraticelli’s upright bass lines thump with an organic warmth, anchoring the harmonic framework and driving the rhythmic flow. Together, these elements create a sound that is simultaneously complex and accessible, brimming with nuance and an infectious energy. While there is an unedited version of the quartet performing this track, this studio-polished version, mixed by multi-instrumentalist Jeff Fielder, brings out its bouncy, playful essence. Fielder, known for his work with Duff McKagan, the Indigo Girls, and Stone Gossard’s Painted Shield, adds a modern sheen to the retro groove, enhancing the track’s escapist qualities without losing its raw, improvisational spirit. Mastering by Ed Brooks of Resonant Mastering adds the final touch, ensuring every note and groove resonates with clarity and warmth.
Ari Joshua’s artistic vision shines throughout. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, and raised in America, Joshua’s journey has been one of constant growth and exploration. A graduate of The New School in NYC, he has collaborated with a wide range of luminaries, including Robert Glasper, Delvon Lamarr, and members of The Trey Anastasio Band. His deep respect for John Medeski and Billy Martin, whose work with Medeski, Martin & Wood profoundly influenced him, is evident in his artist statement. Reflecting on the recording session at Applehead Recording, Joshua describes it as a dream realized, likening the experience to being “a kid in a candy store.” He recalls Billy Martin predicting that he would walk away with more music than he knew what to do with – a prophecy that has come true as Joshua continues to release gems from his vault, including Cherry Peach.
This track is more than a celebration of individual talent; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration. The addition of Jason Fraticelli’s thumping bass and Jeff Fielder’s refined production elevates the piece into a retro-funk classic that feels both timeless and contemporary. Influenced by artists like Herbie Hancock, Jimi Hendrix, Lettuce, and Soulive, Cherry Peach channels these inspirations into something wholly unique. The music dances between nostalgia and innovation, creating a soundscape that is as joyful as it is thought-provoking.
Fans of Cherry Peach have even more to look forward to, as Ari Joshua prepares for a winter tour with The All’s Eye Trio, featuring Ben Atkind and Kris Yunker. Tour stops include The Stone Church in Brattleboro, VT (November 20), Zen Barn in Waterbury, VT (November 21), Main Pub in Manchester, CT (November 23), and The Sanctuary in Maynard, MA (November 24), with additional dates to be announced.
In Cherry Peach, Joshua, Medeski, Martin, and Fraticelli have created a track that transcends genre and era. It’s a playful, cinematic piece that invites us to escape into a world of sound where every detail is lovingly crafted. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic echoes of vintage video games, the swampy depths of funk, or the intricate interplay of jazz improvisation, Cherry Peach is an auditory adventure you won’t soon forget.