...a sweeping opus with sociopolitical and poetic content woven into a musical tapestry...at once cerebral, emotive and viscerally exciting.
Composer Anthony Branker unveils a powerful new chapter in his ongoing exploration of music as cultural narrative, social inquiry, and collective expression. Leading his newly formed ensemble Other Ways of Knowing, Branker brings together an exceptional group of improvisers—saxophonist Steve Wilson, guitarist Pete McCann, pianist Simona Premazzi, bassist John Hébert, drummer Rudy Royston, and vocalist Aimée Allen—for a program that is as rhythmically vital as it is conceptually resonant. Drawing inspiration from histories and lived experiences within the African and Indigenous diasporas, these expansive compositions balance cinematic scope with deeply personal storytelling. Like Branker's acclaimed earlier work, praised for its ability to unite musical beauty with intellectual depth, Manifestations of a Diasporic Groove & Spirit stands as a compelling statement—one that invites listening not only as an aesthetic experience, but as a way of knowing, remembering, and bearing witness.
"Musical beauty in the service of thought, or perhaps the reverse." Paris-Move
Track Listing:
1 The Children of Lyles Station 9:11
2 Song for Marielle Franco 8:03
3 Beautiful Dancing People 8:32
4 Freedom Water March (at Igbo Landing) 9:44
5 Stolen Sisters 8:25
6 When Past is Prologue 7:03
7 Afro Mosaic Soul Babies 7:07
All music by Anthony Branker (J Prof Music, BMI)
(5) lyrics by Aimée Allen
Performers:
Steve Wilson - alto & soprano saxophones/flute
Pete Mccann - electric & acoustic guitars
Simona Premazzi - piano
John Hébert - double bass
Rudy Royston - drums
Aimée Allen - vocals (2,5)
Anthony Branker - composer & musical director
Production Info:
Produced by Anthony Branker
Recorded by Mike Marciano of Systems Two, NY
at Samurai Hotel Recording Studios, Astoria, NY
September 25, 2025
Mixed & Mastered by Mike Marciano & Anthony Branker
at Systems Two, NY
Cover design & layout by John Bishop
