Humankindition at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.
The Fox and King paid witness to newly formed jazz electronic band, Humankindition, last Thursday as they put on a gorgeous performance at Club Bonafide during the exclusive release show of their new single “Daydreaming.”
In front of an intimate crowd at the legendary music venue, this euphorically dangerous live act displayed a level of musicianship that masterfully blended the sonic scopes of jazz, soul and electronic music together. We were fortunate enough to be one of the first to get our hands on Humankindition’s latest single from an exclusive download card handed out to all guest in attendance.
Samir Zarif (Saxophone) and James Quinlan (Bass). Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos
Blown away by the brilliance of their artistry, Humankindition’s rich compositions highlighted for us the quartet’s strategic music arrangements and genre-binding depth that garnered such a soothing, yet gritty performance. Lead by veteran saxophonist, Samir Zarif, Humankindition’s creativity provided a cloud of complex instrumentation that released a storm of jazzy-esque elements, conquering beats and mind-cleansing soul engulfed in musical euphoria. The band’s commanding, yet gentle touch, lifted us firmly from our seats and cradled us within a pacifying state of tranquility.
Samir Zarif at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.
Samir’s skillset on the sax was phenomenal. Truly excellence at it’s finest. His instrumentation was innovative, breezy and dynamic. On their new single, “Daydreaming,” Samir illustrated the complexities of his musicianship through a gracious sound that whispered gently through our ears, shepherding progressive and soulful harmonies that allow this genre to feel refreshing.
His superior command of the sax on “Innocent Complex.” peppered a fresh entrée of alternative jazz paired masterfully with a decadent flow of urban soul and spiced-up beats. His fine play throughout the night formed an ocean of relaxation that kissed you on your ear with every wave, while forcing you to brace the elements with an explosive and captivating sound.
Tommy Hartman on drums. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos
James Quinlan on Bass. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos
Bassist, James Quinlan, and drummer, Tommy Hartman, added a supportive touch to this incredibly awesome set with soul-tendering bass play and core-shredding beats. Quinlan’s funky, yet delicate compositions added a depth of complexity that forged a unique sound to this already progressive four-piece act. His soulful rhythms and hospitable musical range coupled beautifully with all members on stage, increasing the levels of their excellence.
Tommy’s petulant and voluptuous rhythms challenged the genres status quo with an intuitive urban sound that portrayed confidence and action. His sounds usurped the presences of hip-hop and urban funk that sustained the band’s character and utility.
Arcolis Sandoval on the keys. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos
The latest addition to this versatile electronic jazz band, pianist Arcolis Sandoval, displayed on an awe-inspiring performance on the keys last week, providing a sentimental range of delicate harmonies, groovy rhythms and a luscious attitude. Sandoval’s command of the keys offered a sweet condiment to the bands hunger for creativity and thirst for originality. Her craft was smooth, gripping and seductively powerful – clearly an addition that allows this band to take the next generation of this genre to new heights.
Arcolis Sandoval & Samir Zarif live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos
Humankindition is defined through its passion for human connectedness and progressively meaningful music that illuminates origination and creativity. With deep influences that span across Radiohead, Thundercat and Bjork, Humankindition composes music that reflects the essentials of human existence – mesmerizing audiences in a trance of futility that frees the mind of past thought and future worries. Their music allows others to embrace their utility and acceptance – a soundtrack of songs fit for the present moment. Truly a series of work that all must experience.
Humankindition might just be one of the emerging sounds you might hear five to ten years from now in a genre grappling between old and new. The astronomical talent that exists within these four artist’s instrumentation is astounding and is a must listen to anyone that appreciates the aesthetic and sentimental pleasure the sound of jazz gives us.
Humankindition live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos