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Review: Grief can be intensely painful, overwhelming and hard to process, but also provide inspiration for those who make creative expression their life. For Pakistani-born, Brooklyn-based artist Arooj Afhab, the death of her beloved brother provided the inspiration for what some reviewers have called her greatest work yet: beautiful, poignant and soul-aching 2021 set Vulture Prince, which here returns to stores via a deluxe edition that boasts an extra track (the stunning 'Udhero Na'). Deeply emotional, the set pushes her weighty, emotionally inspiring vocals to the fore, with Afthab swapping experimental electronics and leftfield beats for a mixture of acoustic guitars, heavenly string arrangements (harp, violin, uptight bass) and traditional Pakistani instruments. The results are rarely less than stunning.

Review: Shabaka Hutchings' Perceive Its Beauty is a profound and meditative musical journey that celebrates the richness and grace of African culture. Through a diverse ensemble of renowned musicians, Hutchings invites us to immerse ourselves in a sonic landscape that evokes the beauty and bounty of the Motherland. The album's meditative quality stems from the restraint and collective nature of its creation. The instruments seem to float effortlessly, creating a sonic cloud that carries echoes of Afro-Asian music and the tranquil sounds of nature. Yet, within this understated atmosphere, individual brilliance shines through. The artistry of Jason Moran on the piano and the ethereal voices of Moses Sumney and Eska add layers of nuance and emotional depth. In an era often marked by division and disharmony, Perceive Its Beauty offers a refuge of unity and peace. It invites us to transcend superficial boundaries and embrace the beauty and grace that resides within and around us.

Review: Brandee Younger has always been a unique artist: a harpist who frequently utilises the instrument in a wide variety of (sometimes surprising) musical contexts and whose impressive CV also includes work with hip-hop luminaries such as Common and Ryan Leslie. On her fifth solo album, and second for Impulse!, Younger continues this adventurous but highly entertaining approach, offering up a mixture of original compositions and Dorothy Ashby covers that frequently draws influence from hip-hop, smooth jazz, modern soul and fusion. Highlights are plentiful, with our picks including the luscious, harp-laden soul head-nod of 'Brand New Life' (where Mumu Fresh delivers a sublime lead vocal), Pete Rock hook-up 'Livin' And Lovin' In My Own Way', and the duelling harp and vibraphone solos of the vintage Roy Ayers-inspired goodness of 'You're a Girl For One Man Only'.