“Hipness is not a state of mind, it’s a fact of life…”
Ladies and Gentleman, here comes the long awaited longplayer by one of the most favorite bands in the international clubjazz – scene of the last years. Eight tracks, no filler in sight, everyone has the quality for a timeless diamond. Guest appearances by Carolyn Leonhart, Katia B, Robert Smith and Terry Callier.
The Juju Orchestra was founded 2004 by Rare Groove – dj & vinyl – nerd Fab DJ Sammy and producer/sound engineer Oliver Belz. They are based in Braunschweig / Germany, right in the middle of nowhere between Hamburg, Berlin and Hannover. in 2006 Ralf Zitzmann (Brazilectro, Hidden Jazz Quartett) joined the Juju Party and turned the band to a trio.
Some of their musical idols are Caetano Veloso, Charlie Parker, Miles Davies, Steely Dan, Stan Getz ( just to name a few…). Of course they are influenced by all of them, but the Juju’s created their own language – like every important artist does. In some words: contemporary Soul, Jazz and Latin music with a vintage sound.
In 2005 the first single release ‘Kind Of Latin Rhythm / Funky Nassau’ entered the peak position of the German Club Charts. Great reactions from around the world followed, by famos dj’s as well as by the audience. the next 12” ‘Take Four / Hip Shake’ did it the same way. On the album you can find a new vocal version of ‘Hip Shake’ with lyrics and voice of Terry Callier.
It was absolutely a great honour to work with such blessed artists as Terry, Robert Smith, who runs his own orchestra for Caribbean Music in Hamburg, Katia B from Brazil and Carolyn Leonhart, background singer for mighty Steely Dan, showing her outstanding talent on ‘What Is Hip ?’ and the Steely Dan cover ‘Do It Again’.
Paul Murphy, a fan from the first minute, is still writing some – hopefully nice – words about The Juju Orchestra’s ‘Bossa Nova Is Not A Crime’ to be included on the album.
The rest is music.
