Don Glori (a.k.a. Gordon Li) is one of the best surprises we’ve been featuring. His debut album, Welcome, released by Bedroom Sucks Records, is a kaleidoscopic free dive into his world, featuring 8 recordings of revolving jazz, Brazilian, soul and funk inspired compositions spinning together and blurring into a genre bending slew of new music. Together with a very talented cast of musicians hailing from the vibrant Australian scene, Don Glori delivers a carefully considered set of tracks that facilitate heavy doses of improvisation.

Welcome is an expansive body of work. Harmonious, groovy, joyful, sometimes epic… a victorious moment of life with each song on the album capturing the spirit and irrepressible energy that underpins the core of the Don Glori project. Layers of vocal harmonies oscillate next to pulsating samba rhythms while spiritual overtones permeate throughout. Congas and percussion form a holy union with the drum kit, co-piloted by Don Glori’s own bass lines. Saxophones, horns and flutes flutter in between the musical canyons carved out by the piano and vibraphone. From the spiritual jazz opener “Maiden Waters” to the bubbling street party that is “Dlareme”, and ending on the unashamedly seductive “Commodore”. Available on vinyl, Welcome is a record to listen and revisit.

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