It’s a one-of-a-kind thing. Jamie Saft, the high priest of acoustic groove and heir to Sun Ra’s spatial explorations, who also reigns over microtonal metal and maybe even rock-minded syncopation, is known for his unique, unwavering creative impulse. His New Zion Trio steps into misty reggae territory, where dancehall rhythms, full of soft jolts and Caribbean torpor, nudge complex structures and streamlined soul music. Here, the spell he casts is made up of African-American blues, hypnotic 1970s spirit jazz, dub-inspired reverb and the interplay of a jazz trio. With this trio, Saft brings together Great Black Music and King Tubby’s polished productions thanks to Christian Castagno, invited as a guest livedubber for a set which will win you over with its flow and its depth.

Is there truly a method of defiance, a formula for skepticism? Yes! Huge-sounding bass-hero and far-sighted reverb admirer Bill Laswell sets out his theory, his very own Method Of Defiance. And it comes with a soundtrack. The bassist has always made his own rules before he agreed to play. Here he admits to having had electric, fast-paced, loud — very fast, and very loud — Dub music-hall in mind. In mind…. ind…. Laswell has a thing for echoes. The echoes of bold and daring musical gestures, bringing together Graham Haynes’s cornet and DJ Logic and Dr. Israël’s electronic experiments. The echoes of eight like-minded musicians seeking to create instantaneous, ever-changing music. Play it again, Bill, and play it loud!