About

Kaleidoscopic Visions showcases London born/based drummer/composer/bandleader Tom Skinner drawing together the many threads of his career as one of the UK’s most versatile and free-thinking contemporary musicians. Performing and recording with Sons of Kemet, The Smile, David Byrne, Meshell Ndegeocello, Alabaster DePlume, Floating Points and Peter Zummo as well as a wide range of collaborations across London’s vibrant improvised and electronic scene, Skinner’s diverse touchpoints are brought together in an album of quiet power and profound truths, reflecting his journey so far and opening the road towards what is to come.

Where Skinner’s 2022 debut Voices of Bishara drew inspiration from Abdul Wadud’s 1978 cello masterpiece By Myself, Kaleidoscopic Visions shifts toward more personal, fully composed material — brought to life by the intuitive improvisations of both long-time bandmates and new high-profile collaborations. As writer Piotr Orlov reflects in his notes on the album, the result is a record that chronicles “the importance of considering the view from the middle of one’s own life, taking stock alongside memories and family, heroes and friends new and old.” On Kaleidoscopic Visions, one of London’s most vital musical figures gives us a sparkling glimpse of the multi-coloured lens through which his unique sound is now refracting. — (via Label)

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The drummer and composer’s first studio album since 2022 features Portishead’s Adrian Utley, Meshell Ndegeocello, and others.

“‘Kaleidoscopic Visions’ was the first piece I wrote for the album,” Skinner said of his new single. “Based around an intuitive piano improvisation, it set the tone for my approach and the sound I wanted to achieve in the creative process. Showcasing the conversational and collaborative dynamic of the music and my band, it foregrounds a moody, cinematic flow within a hazy, psychedelic backdrop.”

Skinner made Kaleidoscopic Visions—his first album since 2022’s Voices of Bishara and its live companion—with bassist Tom Herbert, cellist Kareem Dayes, and woodwinds players Robert Stillman and Chelsea Carmichael. In addition, Portishead’s Adrian Utley plays electric guitar on two songs, while Meshell Ndegeocello is on “The Maxim” and Contour’s Khari Lucas features on “Logue.” — (via Pitchfork)

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Label: International Anthem Recording Company / Brownswood Recordings
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Released: 2025
Genre: Electronic, Jazz, Funk / Soul
Style: Psychedelic, Modern/Future Jazz

File under: International Anthem Recording Company
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