(January 21, 2018) In a musical world filled with more recorded collaborations, it only seems fitTING that another collection of musical friends would eventually bond into their own artistic entity. This new super group dubbed as August Greene consists of rapper Common, keyboardist/producer Robert Glaspar and drummer/percussionist producer Karriem Riggins, a bond that goes back almost two decades. Besides Riggins’ involvement as Common’s longtime production guru, Glaspar’s two-CD Black Radio series featured Common among other stellar urban music stars. But the crème de la crème of their body of work was Glaspar and Riggins’ potent soundtrack merging hip-hop, traditional jazz and gospel on “Letter to the Free,” from Common’s 2016 release, Black America Again.
(January 21, 2018) In a musical world filled with more recorded collaborations, it only seems fitTING that another collection of musical friends would eventually bond into their own artistic entity. This new super group dubbed as August Greene consists of rapper Common, keyboardist/producer Robert Glaspar and drummer/percussionist producer Karriem Riggins, a bond that goes back almost two decades. Besides Riggins’ involvement as Common’s longtime production guru, Glaspar’s two-CD Black Radio series featured Common among other stellar urban music stars. But the crème de la crème of their body of work was Glaspar and Riggins’ potent soundtrack merging hip-hop, traditional jazz and gospel on “Letter to the Free,” from Common’s 2016 release, Black America Again.
Now with the introductory single as August Greene, they render an appealing rendition of Sounds of Blackness’ crossover hit from the early nineties, “Optimistic,” anchored by Brandy (another Black Radio collaborator). Though the melodic content remains fairly untouched, Brandy’s sturdy soulfulness delivers a fresh voice that contrasts with Ann Nesby’s original lead performance. Of course, Common’s astute poetry in motion sparks a motivational moment: “Living in ambition on a mission impossible/Envision optimism through a prism that's optical/To see through obstacles and be remarkable/Eyes on the prize.” And Glaspar’s glistening piano and staccato drumming from Riggins provide a complimentary backdrop. August Greene’s unique hip-hop jazz stew and biting social commentary will be on tap when their much anticipated debut arrives this Spring.
By Peggy Oliver
August Greene feat. Brandy - "Optimistic"