BadBadNotGood – Talk Memory (White Vinyl)

Released in October 2021 after a five-year hiatus, Talk Memory is the fifth album by Canadian instrumental outfit BadBadNotGood. A departure from their usual focus on crafting unique sounds from hip hop and contemporary genres, Talk Memory marks a return to the jazz influences that shaped the band’s early years. This isn’t just a straight-up homage though; the album is a sprawling, improvisational journey that incorporates elements from across generations.

The core trio of Alexander Sowinski (drums), Chester Hansen (bass), and Leland Whitty (guitar and woodwinds) is joined here by a cast of collaborators, including established jazz figures like Laraaji and Brandee Younger, lending their talents to create a richly textured soundscape. Lush string arrangements courtesy of Brazilian composer Arthur Verocai add another layer of depth.

Talk Memory is the first chapter in a larger project, one that both celebrates the legacy of the artists who inspired BadBadNotGood and utilizes that inspiration to push the boundaries of their own sound.