Watch: Michael Blake’s ‘Malagasy’ from new album Combobulate
Friday, September 30, 2022
The Canadian-born American saxophonist, composer, arranger, and bandleader shares his uplifting new single ‘Malagasy’ that has a brass-heavy 12/8 groove
Saxophonist and composer Michael Blake’s latest album Combobulate celebrates a much-needed explosion of color and joy from the artist’s inimitable musical mind. Out October 14 on Newvelle Records, the release marks the second of the label’s new season, the Newvelle Records Renewal Series.
Blake’s proclivity to balance himself on the edge of genres is only enhanced on this new date, and notably on the single ‘Malagasy’. With its polyrhythmic 12/8 groove, Michael’s fondness for Madagascar choral music is at the heart of the track. Holding court with a titanic low end are two iconic tuba players Bob Stewart and Marcus Rojas. Steven Bernstein (trumpet) and Clark Gayton (trombone) round out the brass section and the phenomenal Allan Mednard holds down the drum chair in this one-of-a-kind ensemble.
Watch the high energy studio video with the Michael Blake Brass Band in the ‘Malagasy’ video below or for more info visit www.newvelle-records.com