We are long time fans of Alfa Mist’s output. Following the release of his first full-length project Nocturne in 2015, the London-based genius went from bedroom productions to work with renowned artists and orchestras, always committing to the practice of creating and sharing his music with others. Antiphon (2017), Structuralism (2019), Bring Backs (2021) are incredible contemporary jazz pieces that deserve attention and are now followed by his new record on ANTI-. Variables is a ten-track opus that traverses luscious, big band swing, head-nodding boom-bap rhythms and yearning vocal melodies.

Exploring the concept of evolution, and how the artist itself got to the place he is now, Alfa Mist presents a record that is expansive, soulful and moving, in both body and spirit. It is a balance between feeling and perfectionism that ultimately gives Alfa’s music its depth and capacity for repeated listening. Variables is no exception, with the artist achieving what could be his most fully-realised, expressive musical work to date, coupling his keen ear for looping, memorably emotive piano melodies with intuitive grooves and a free-flowing jazz improvisation. Available on vinyl.

Check out some of the best new releases in our Contemporary Jazz collection