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Afro jazz with a side order reggae has been on the front burner among younger listeners for a few years now, with UK groups like Nubiyan Twist and Ezra Collective playing to club and festival crowds that want to thrill to the sound of a horn solo as well as have a dance.

Despite that multi-kulti mix of colours in the sound palette, Waaju have retained their British jazz identity by allowing the soloists to express themselves. Tenor horn player Sam Rapley is a clear toned, unhurried stylist who savours the notes rather than punching them out, afrobeat style. Excellent electric guitarist Tal Janes’ solos soar high and bright in the mix, sometimes using distorting effects to erect an improvised soundscape behind the quintet. Untypically for this area, Waaju’s rhythm section doesn’t double down on the bass frequencies. Instead, drummer (and leader) Ben Browne, alongside bassist Joe Downard and percussionist Ernesto Marichales, play in the same space as the soloists.

It’s a detailed approach to groove-based music that makes Grown an album that rewards repeated listening – rather than saving it for that big post lockdown party you’ve been planning. Though it would work for that as well… - Jazz Journal