Laraaji (LARAAJI) gave me a good reason to visit Hamilton today, and between the fire street tacos, the funky antique shops on Ottawa St., and the impressive sets by Alma (of Doomsquad) and Laraaji, I had a great day. Is the Hammer a viable alternative to TO? Not yet, but

An album always hits differently when you see it performed live before you really get to know it. Seeing Kamasi Washington and crew this week was a special experience, and it’s deepened my appreciation for this beautiful album.

As the world gets darker, one thing that has given me comfort is the growth of gentle music. It was wonderful seeing LARAAJI (Laraaji) tonight at The Music Gallery, for a beautiful and relaxing set. So happy I get to see him again tomorrow!

It’s basically never possible to stop discovering incredible music. Batsumi is a South African jazz band from the 70s who I just learned of. The grooves on this are wonderful.

I’ve seen Kamasi Washington a bunch of times now but last night was one of the best times. His band is so talented and I love how he gives them all space to play long solos. They work best in a venue like History. I also liked Shebad’s set.

Once again, Strictly came through with the quality recommendation. There’s so much talent on this W$ Nascent album, and such a variety of styles of hiphop.

I don’t really understand how this lofi recording of Amharic language piano music played by a nun captivates me so, but I do love it.

After today? They should hold it at the Cheesecake Factory, fam.

Glad this SHABAKA album landed in my collection today. It’s such a beautiful piece of work. I love that the guy I associate with fierce apocalyptic dance saxophone is making such gentle and thoughtful music. This album is remarkable, with such a cool list of guest artists.

So I really messed up by not ordering the new Brother Ali and Unjust album on CD, and now they’re sold out. I balked at the high shipping price, but listening, I realize it’s worth at least twice that (although I’d rather that money go to Ali than USPS). Ali snapped on this!

My May plans include Kamasi Washington, my father's name, LARAAJI (aka Laraaji), julia holter, The Messthetics, JAMES BRANDON LEWIS, ROC MARCI, and Khruangbin.

This is going to be a fun month!

Had a fantastic time seeing Nick Waterhouse tonight. He and his band never disappoint! They played every song I was hoping for in their really packed set. It was so nice to see the audience dancing (so different from all the rap shows I go to).

Everybody should get to see kassa overall perform live, but if you haven’t yet, listen to this live recording that captures the thrill of it all. You can feel the energy of ///トモキ・サンダース. TOMOKI SANDERS. running around the crowd with a cowbell. And Theo Croker is on here!

Listening to all these The Greg Foat Group live recordings that have been popping up lately really makes wish he’s come play Toronto. This sounds like an incredible show to have been at.

Lofigo is new to me, but I’m impressed! The features by BruiserTheWolf 🐾 and Quelle Christopher drew me in, but his flow and perspective has me coming back for more.

Needed some tropical vibes on this grey morning, so I thought I’d visit Cuba with Daymé Arocena. This album always lifts my mood.

Enjoying this new Gangrene album. Both Alchemist Type Beat and Doctor NO! are at the top of their game on this one!

Finally got a chance to really sit with the new Khruangbin album, and I appreciate how they are evolving their sound, adding more vocals, but keeping their same unique vibe. Really looking forward to their show in June.