saul: mutualism
Francisco Espregueira
Following a summer break, we’re back with one of (many) stellar records that dropped in the heat of August. SAUL is the joint project from the minds of Jack Stephenson-Oliver (keys player on Vels Trio) and producer Barney Whittaker, a.k.a. Footshooter. The duo presents their sophomore project, enlisting a cast of talented musician friends on a feel-good, summer-ready soundtrack to listen and revisit. Mutualism dropped two weeks ago via Rhythm Section, that had previously released their debut Murmurations (2019). Shaped by a well crafted fusion of jazz, electronic and broken beat music, this seven-track record signals two musicians at the height of their artistic expression, drawing resources and influences from wherever is inspiring them most.
As per usual in Stephenson-Oliver’s and Whittaker’s output, building on their impressive debut project, the composition and production work are on point. The talent of the guest features adds extra doses of musical prowess and Mutualism evolves around the collaborative spirit of the duo with artists like Allysha Joy (30/70), James Mollison (Ezra Collective), Lex Amor, Natty Wylah and aden. Musically the EP bursts with uplifting synths and groove-heavy broken beats in what it feels like a jam session of the highest karat. Available on vinyl, SAUL’s Mutualism EP is able to shine the light in new sonic pathways and present artists that we came to appreciate in different contexts. Courtesy of Rhythm Section.
“The feature performances are all very different, the way they worked on the tracks really brought each one to life in a big way.”