Featured Artists from Bandcamp | by Ian Morris | September 2024

At Frequency and Minded magazine, we understand the importance of supporting artists in a way that truly benefits their craft. This is why we choose to feature musicians from Bandcamp—a platform that empowers artists and fosters a direct connection between them and their fans. By allowing you to purchase music directly from the creators, Bandcamp ensures that your support reaches those who need it most.

In an era dominated by streaming services, it's crucial to recognize the challenges artists face in receiving fair compensation for their work. Streaming platforms often provide meager payments and lack transparency in reporting, making it difficult for musicians to earn a sustainable income. By choosing Bandcamp, you're not only helping artists maintain creative control over their work but also contributing to their financial stability.

Our featured artist section on Frequency and Minded magazine celebrates the incredible talent on Bandcamp, offering a glimpse into the world of independent music. We believe that supporting your favorite musicians through direct purchases is an essential way to keep the industry thriving. As you explore our curated selection, we hope that you discover new artists to love and support, strengthening the vibrant, independent music community that makes Bandcamp a truly unique platform.

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Eric Ghost "Secret Sauce": A Timeless Masterpiece That Continues to Inspire

The Enigmatic Eric Ghost:

Psychedelic Jazz Master and Counterculture Icon

Music historian Eric Ghost, true to his name, remains shrouded in mystery. A contemporary and close friend of 1960s funky jazz musician Jeremy Steig, Ghost's self-published private press albums are highly sought-after, difficult to obtain, and command substantial prices.

This psychedelic jazz masterpiece, recorded in 1975, showcases the studio debut of Dave Valentin's bassist Lincoln Goines, as well as the talent of Jim McGilveray, who would later collaborate with Paul Horn and The Cult.

Fans of The Blues Project's "Flute Thing," Paul Horn's esoteric works, or Jeremy Steig's compositions will find a kindred spirit in this album. From the first note of "Orangeland" to the final strains of the Eastern-infused "Bizarre Bazaar," Ghost's music is both funky and spiritual, demanding the listener's full attention.

Eric Ghost's connection to the counterculture movement began in the early 1960s during his time in Morocco while serving in the US Army – an experience akin to a hip Elvis Presley. His involvement in the counterculture continued until his conviction for LSD manufacture shortly after the album's recording. Ghost, under his real name Richard Barth Sanders, pioneered the blotting paper method of LSD distribution, earning him the title of the world's first Acid Jazz artist. He was sentenced to seven years in a federal prison.

This reissued album features the original cover artwork and presents the tracks in their correct order for the first time, preserving Ghost's enigmatic legacy and his indelible mark on psychedelic jazz history.

"Secret Sauce" by Eric Ghost is more than just a great jazz album—it's a truly extraordinary work that transcends the confines of time and genre. This 1975 masterpiece stands tall as a testament to Ghost's genius, as he seamlessly blends psychedelic influences with jazz in a manner that sounds fresh and innovative even today.

Ghost's passion for music is evident in every track, with heart and inspiration radiating throughout the album. "Secret Sauce" serves as a reminder that jazz is a living, breathing art form with the power to stir souls and ignite imaginations. Today's music landscape could greatly benefit from the spark and ingenuity found within this timeless classic, as it reminds us all to embrace creativity and push boundaries. "Secret Sauce" is not just a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts—it's essential listening for anyone seeking genuine musical inspiration

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Matthew Ottignon and Volant:

Elevating Jazz with Ingenuity and Soul

Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Matthew Ottignon has emerged as a prominent figure in the world of jazz, enchanting audiences with his masterful compositions and skillful saxophone playing. Ottignon's latest project, Volant, is a testament to his dedication to pushing the boundaries of the genre, blending elements of spiritual jazz, minimalism, and acoustic sounds that have become synonymous with Australian jazz.

The album Volant is a result of Ottignon's period of solitude and introspection, taking inspiration from the graceful movement of birds in flight. This motif is evident throughout the album, with tracks that showcase a sense of freedom and weightlessness while maintaining a strong, coherent narrative. The ensemble, also named Volant, is comprised of four exceptional musicians who bring their unique skills and creative ambitions to the project. Together, they've crafted a sound that pays homage to jazz legends like John Coltrane while infusing their music with a modern, innovative edge.

In a time when the world needs genuine, heartfelt art more than ever, Matthew Ottignon and Volant have risen to the challenge. Their music serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision. As Ottignon and his ensemble continue to make waves in the Sydney jazz scene and beyond, it's clear that their passion for the genre and commitment to pushing its boundaries will leave a lasting impact on the world of jazz for years to come.

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Bokani Dyer and Radio Sechaba: A South African Musical Journey

Bokani Dyer, the multi-talented South African pianist, composer, and producer, has made waves in the music scene with his latest album, Radio Sechaba. Hailing from Johannesburg, Dyer's unique blend of genres, including jazz, R&B, reggae, and classical music, has earned him international recognition.

Radio Sechaba showcases Dyer's profound understanding of music, drawing inspiration from his homeland and diverse global influences. The album's intricate arrangements and soulful melodies reflect his personal journey as an artist and his deep connection to South Africa. Born in Botswana during exile and returning to South Africa in 1990, Dyer's experiences have shaped his music, making Radio Sechaba a powerful, introspective, and richly layered work.

Bokani Dyer's talent and vision have garnered numerous accolades, including the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Jazz in 2011 and the South African Music Award for Best Jazz Album in 2019. With Radio Sechaba, he continues to push the boundaries of jazz, delivering a captivating and forward-thinking sound that resonates with listeners worldwide.

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Makaya McCraven's In the Moment Deluxe Edition:

A Sonic Masterpiece

"In the Moment Deluxe Edition" by Makaya McCraven, the talented Chicago-based drummer, producer, and "beat scientist," is a captivating sonic journey that pushes the boundaries of jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music. This deluxe edition compiles the original 19-track "In the Moment" album and the 40-minute "E & F Sides," creating a comprehensive 3xLP or 2xCD collection of McCraven's innovative sound.

The album masterfully weaves together elements of jazz-funk, post-bop, vanguard jazz, and fusion with hip-hop, rock, and global rhythmic traditions. McCraven's ability to seamlessly blend these genres results in an immersive listening experience that showcases his exceptional musicianship and production skills. "In the Moment Deluxe Edition" is a testament to McCraven's unique artistic vision, solidifying his status as a boundary-defying force in the contemporary music scene.

As a bonus, the deluxe edition includes nine additional tracks recorded during the original "In the Moment" sessions but not completed until late 2015. Produced by McCraven himself and mastered by Daddy Kev (Low End Theory, Alpha Pup), these tracks further demonstrate the artist's commitment to pushing musical boundaries and exploring new sonic territories. "In the Moment Deluxe Edition" is a must-have for any music enthusiast looking to experience the incredible talent and vision of Makaya McCraven.

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