ARJUNA OAKES 黑胶唱片和CD

Review: London-based New Zealander Arjuna Oakes impresses hugely with this debut album, a contemporary soul and jazz fusion, global folk, electronica and post-rock motifs all woven in. Like any good LP, While I'm Distracted is a deeply personal journey exploring common themes of vulnerability, identity and hope in a world shaped by ever-more existential angst and social media stress. We're told that Arjuna approached this full-length album like a filmmaker crafting a feature and aiming to evoke emotion over concept. Performing vocals, piano, synths and arranging strings himself, he also leads a talented ensemble of collaborators who help him on this emotional odyssey.

Review: Arjuna Oakes' Abbreviations on 7" vinyl is a delightful journey through jazz and soul. Side-1 features 'The Love That I Feel,' a soulful track brimming with emotional depth and vibrant energy. Oakes' expressive vocals and the band's tight performance, especially with the legendary Nathan Haines, create an uplifting and captivating experience. On Side-2, 'Mallet Groove' offers a contrasting, yet equally engaging, experience. This downtempo track is soothing and gentle, with beautifully played keys that set a relaxing mood. The groove is soft and inviting, drawing listeners into its calming embrace. The emotional drive within the music is palpable, making it a deeply compelling piece that encourages introspection. Overall, Abbreviations shows Arjuna Oakes' ability to blend soulful performances with smooth, relaxing grooves, making it a standout release in contemporary jazz and soul.

Review: Although best known for the quality of their reissues, the Rain & Shine Records crew does put out stunningly good new music now and then. This is one of those occasions. "The Watcher" is the debut EP from 21 year-old New Zealander Arjuna Oakes, a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, producer and vocalist who's happy to forge his own path through the worlds of jazz-funk, soul and reggae. It's the kind of warm, woozy and effortlessly soulful musical fusion that has long been associated with artists from New Zealand, though it's fair to say that Oakes does it better than most. In fact, as debuts go it's an absolute stunner.