Gitkin brings together the cumbia rhythms of Colombia and the sounds of North Africa and the Middle East with new album, Golden Age.

By Graeme Smith

Inspired as much by the folk music of the world as he is by his own upbringing in New Orleans, USA, Brian J is quite the unique voice. Yet, it’s his guitar that does the talking for him when it comes to his instrumental Gitkin project.

His new album Golden Age is an intriguing concept. Very much a product of the American South, we get a cinematic soundtrack that includes Spaghetti Western, ’70s funk and ’60s soul. Yet, the unexpected injection of worldly rhythms makes it feel truly out on its own. Brian is a master of the guitar, giving us playful, thoughtful melodies that say more than most lyrics do.

The atmospheric High Noon gives way to the groovy Cumbia-ya. Delta Mystic is dreamy and brooding while Iced Coffee chills. Go Time rounds off the album’s first half with a lively highlight that’s ready for the dancefloor.

Ninth Ward Grind canters along with a swagger in its step. El Gran Camino slows things down with a sultry, soulful number. The One provides contrast but upping the tempo once again in a noodling affair. Tall Oaks Drive brings with it plenty of drama and bombast before title track Golden Age closes the album with some vibrant percussion.

I have to admit, I’m not usually a fan of instrumental music, but the approach Brian J has taken with Gitkin has gone a long way to changing my mind. Each track on his new album bristles with narrative while creating captivating scenes and not getting lost within themselves. His ability to bring together unexpected influences means that his new album is a must-listen.

Golden Age is out now and you can give it a listen below.