It had been a few years since Jamaican Jazz Orchestra last made their presence felt, but with this 'All For A Reason' EP, a five-track release, the Flemish ska-jazz ensemble led by guitarist Wouter 'Wowie' Rosseel is making a return... or are they?
By Jah Rebel
Wouter Rosseel explains: “The five tracks on this EP represent a part of my musical journey between 2020 and 2022, a period that was quite tough and rocky. You can see this reflected in some of the titles. Luckily, listening to music proved both healing and inspiring, and so these tracks came to life. These tunes were meant to be, like so many things in life, it was ‘All For A Reason’.”
Rosseel’s guitar, blending influences from Ernest Ranglin to Django Reinhardt, takes centre stage in opener ‘Brain Freeze’. In ‘Say Whut?!’, it’s Timothé Le Maire’s trombone (replacing Tobias Storme in the band’s lineup) that shines brightly.
Both baritone saxophonist Ruben Verbruggen and organist Karel Cuelenaere get their time to impress in the aptly named ‘Sweet & Tender’, while Cuelenaere returns for a playful dialogue with Marie-Anne Standaert’s trumpet and Rosseel’s guitar in ‘Black Rain’.
The EP concludes with ‘Kelly Green’, a delightful composition reminiscent of ‘Rockfort Rock’, where all the musicians come together to deliver their very best.
So far, there appear to be no plans for a live presentation of ‘All For A Reason’, leaving us wondering if this EP couldn’t be Jamaican Jazz Orchestra’s swan song. One thing is for sure, it would be a true loss to see such a refined ensemble bow out!
Founder alongside Jah Shakespear who transitioned to this role in late 2014. Previously worked as critic and reporter, balancing passions for music and Haile Selassie spirituality.
January 26, 2025