Just one year after his solo debut, Harry James Brenner Jr. returns with his second album, Harried. This album blends jazz, hip - hop, ambient, and R&B elements. It's a natural progression from 2021's Buy the Numbers, adding new depth to his sound while staying true to his personal vision. Like its predecessor, Harried features succinct, self - recorded themes with overlaid lines and complex rhythms. But this time, there's a big change. Brenner moves from being the sole performer to an arranger and collaborator. Instead of handling all instrumentation himself, he's gathered a great group of musicians from Chicago's jazz and experimental scenes, such as Keefe Jackson, Dave McDonnell, Gerald Bailey, Hope Arthur, and Bill MacKay. Taking inspiration from Sun Ra, Mulatu Astatke, and Yesterday's New Quintet, the 14 tracks vary in tempo and timbre but share a handmade intimacy. The results are both evocative and forward - thinking. This limited - edition vinyl (only 250 copies) comes in a black vinyl pressing with a gold paste - on cover and a printed insert. It's released by Potions Music NYC in 2022.
To enjoy this vinyl LP, first, make sure your record player is clean and in good working condition. Gently place the vinyl on the turntable and set the needle at the start of the record. You can sit back and enjoy Harry James Brenner Jr.'s unique blend of music. When you're done, carefully lift the needle and remove the vinyl from the turntable. Store the vinyl in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping. Avoid touching the playing surface of the vinyl with your fingers as it can leave fingerprints and dirt, which may affect the sound quality. Also, handle the record by its edges to keep it in good shape. If you notice any dust on the vinyl, use a soft, anti - static brush to clean it before playing.
