Resolute - Resolute (2019)

April 2019 marks the release of Resolute, the eponomously titled album on respected East London imprint Babel. A bold and accomplished experimental project, Resolute is in essence an unapologetically niche conception, allowing its creators free reign to develop and refine a body of work that is truly unique. Resolute combines a range of innovative disciplines across a free jazz, electronic and spoken word spectrum, providing the discerning listener with much to appreciate and discuss. Resolute is an endeavor born out of the Dissolute Society - an existing collective that have already released an album to critical acclaim on the Babel label. The music as a whole retains the notion that each protagonist has been able to express themselves completely with no constraints, yet have seamlessly blended and unified all elements as their music has evolved. The Resolute ensemble features a cast of expert musicians and creatives, who have lent their individual expertise to an abundance of intriguing ventures. Raph Clarkson, bandleader on trombone and FX, played a significant role in WorldService Project on Rare Noise records, while drummer Simon Roth has performed with multiple leading groups including the Elliot Galvin Trio and Vula Viel. Combining this with the undoubtable skill of Phil Merriman on keys (known for playing with Alice Zawadzki, CeCe Peniston and many others) and the spoken word poetry of Gboyega Odubanjo (who's booklet 'While I Yet Live' is soon to be published), make them a powerful force to be reckoned with. The album is recorded live and is further fortified by the involvement of producer Liran Donin, known for his work with groups such as Led Bib, 1000 Boats and Namvula. Artwork has been created by up and coming visual artist Aurelie Freoua, who has enhanced the bands' shows by 'live painting' during their performance. Those involved in Resolute strive to be multifaceted artists, working together to cross-pollinate their skills and generate positive energy within a range of communities. This is no more apparent than on the track entitled The Field - the lyrics of which were written by a seven year old with communication needs, who was taking part in a creative music-making workshop run by Clarkson. Resolute is challenging music at its finest, destined to be enjoyed by those who wish to expand their mind and gain new perspectives.