culross close: pressure
Francisco Espregueira
Following Home (Soundofspeed, 2016), Forgotten Ones (Esencia, 2019) and two high karat gold EP’s, PRESSURE is the third album from the experimental London-based quintet Culross Close, led by master K15 (a.k.a. Kieron Ifill/Anthony Kieron). Once again released by Esencia, this project is an intellectual construction of contemporary jazz, ambient textures, electronic music and UK broken beat elements.
PRESSURE opens with the title-track, introducing us to a world where synths blend with keys and the visceral expressions of city life. Things then move from minimalist expressions to beat-driven fusion. With searing string and trumpet arrangement courtesy of Yelfris Valdes, “To Belong” straddles beat-driven fusion and jazz with mastery. “Misguided” takes things up a notch, with breakneck rhythms and an enchanting melody. The mood changes on “Tipping Point”, with the quintet heading into psychedelic territory. “Convictions” is a sombre piece, laced with keys and heartfelt intentions. “Shifts” is both delicate and challenging, stirring and settling. “The Will To Change” is a solo piano piece and the album’s closer, “The Will To Change (I,II)” showcases Culross Close at their best: playful, considered and able to hold a groove.
Available on vinyl, courtesy of Esencia, PRESSURE is another diamond hailing from the vision of one of the most interesting acts from the UK.
“Pressure. The invisible hand that has the potential to propel or paralyze, to create beauty or despair. Pressure mounts. Builds. Until it reaches a tipping point, after which, things shift and change finds us.”
Bass - Eli Emmanuel
Drums - May Goode
Keyboards/Synths/Electronics - Nathanial Jiddu
Piano - Anthony Kieron
Percussion - Hasani
Saxophone - Man Like Tyrone