Ari Joshua – Blurry Face (2025)
With a penchant for intriguing melodies and a knack for creative collaborations, singer-songwriter Ari Joshua has carved a niche in the music industry with powerful musical expression. Showcasing his passion for his craft, the seasoned artist is known for confidence, innovation, eclecticism and poetic originality, sending audiences on heady journeys through various genres. Already a regular on The Other Side Reviews, Joshua has turned our heads with daubs of rock, soul, jazz, funk, and even a peep of folk in his music – and we are fascinated each time. The latest single to reach our ears is ‘Blurry Face’.
Following his take on Jimi Hendrix’s ‘Voodoo Chile’, Joshua is joined by John Medeski and Billy Martin for ‘Blurry Face’. Produced by Joshua with Chris Bittner (engineering and mixing), Joe Lambert (mastering), and Jonathan Plum (additional mixing), ‘Blurry Face’ binds the best of vintage jazz with funk-filled flairs and a tinge of psychedelic rock in the mix. In a strange way, the track reminds me of George Benson, but with the skill of Santana rushing through the arrangement. By no means is this comparison saying Ari Joshua is a copy of the iconic musicians; it is merely saying there’s a hint of their style simmering in the guitar-driven song.
While Joshua’s guitar certainly demands attention, Medeski’s organ adds a slice of jazz-rock flair while Martin’s drums keep a steady pace. Interestingly, while ‘Blurry Face’ is a harmonic symphony, it is the individuality of each instrument that makes it so intriguing. You follow the organ and clavinet, but drums keep an earthy pulse, and the guitars slick the track with kaleidoscopic shavings of pure passion.
One of the most intriguing aspects of ‘Blurry Face’ is that the track was recorded in one take and entirely improvised. For me, listening to the single is like being in that studio, enjoying the freedom of making music without boundaries, structure, or a plan. A live session vibe highlights the intensity of ‘Blurry Face’; yet, while it is hard-hitting, calmness exudes from the chilled-out tranquillity of this jazzy gem.
In addition to the single, Ari Joshua released an official music video for ‘Blurry Face’. You can view the video below or on his YouTube channel.
Find out more about Ari Joshua on his official website, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Listen to more jazz music on The Other Side Reviews Jazz playlist:
