"The Clinic" by Music Factory Records: A Sonic Masterpiece of Afro-Space and Boogaloo

Music Factory Records introduces "The Clinic," a new afro-space-boogaloo track that promises to captivate listeners with its eclectic fusion of genres. The track features a stripped-down organ trio setup led by guitarist and composer Ari Joshua, alongside the talented Skerik on saxophone, Delvon Lamarr on Hammond organ, and Grant Schroff on drums. Known for its groovy energy and genre-bending complexity, "The Clinic" is an anthem that blends old-school rawness with modern production techniques, showcasing the collective artistry of its creators.

The track begins with a stereophonic introduction sculpted by Jason Gray, bass player for the Polyrhythmics. With the sound carefully captured by engineer Mell Dettmer, "The Clinic" sets the stage for an immersive audio experience. Classic reverb tanks and vintage tape delays are used to enhance the track’s analog warmth, creating a unique dichotomy of atmospheric sound—a hallmark of Ari Joshua’s evolving style.

"The Clinic" explores the boundaries between classic and modern influences. The chord progression is built around a Hendrix-inspired Sharp 9, with tritone substitutions creating tension and resolution throughout the song. The players demonstrate remarkable synergy, capturing the track’s intricate arrangement in a seamless take, which is a testament to their musical prowess. Ari Joshua's expressive guitar lines guide the composition, weaving together tight melodies with fluid improvisations, while Skerik’s bold saxophone improvisation and Delvon Lamarr’s gritty organ elevate the song’s emotional intensity.

As "The Clinic" unfolds, the trio navigates soulful grooves, expertly balancing the bebop and boogaloo traditions that inspired the song’s creation. Each musician contributes their individual sound to the song, while Grant Schroff’s captivating drumming holds the rhythm together. The outcome is an energetic, lively audial landscape that encourages audiences to immerse themselves in its rhythmic complexities.

The track is not only a studio triumph but also a recurring favorite in Joshua’s live performances. "The Clinic" has been performed by various lineups, each offering a different interpretation of the song. From the lush, cinematic sound of Joshua’s RAaR Trio to the more stripped-down, boogaloo vibe heard in this version, the track showcases remarkable versatility and adaptability across different musical settings.

Production-wise, "The Clinic" stands out for its rich texture and depth, thanks to the engineering work of Mell Dettmer and Jason Gray, as well as mastering by Doug Krebs. Fans of Music Factory Records will appreciate the high production standards that define the label's releases, and "The Clinic" continues this legacy. The visuals for the track, designed by Deep Groove Designs, reflect the vibrant and evolving nature of the song, offering a visual complement to the music’s dynamic energy.

Ari Joshua’s work on "The Clinic" has not gone unnoticed, as the guitarist and composer is currently in Grammy Round One consideration in multiple categories.   His recent projects, including "Rare Groove" and "Dragon's Layer," are now in the running for prestigious awards such as Song of the Year and Best Jazz Performance. Joshua's ability to merge diverse genres while maintaining a cohesive and innovative sound is showcased in "The Clinic," making it a strong contender for recognition in the wider music industry.

"The Clinic" is a genre-blurring masterpiece that balances nostalgia with forward-thinking improvisation. Ari Joshua, Skerik, Delvon Lamarr, and Grant Schroff have crafted a track that resonates on multiple levels, from its infectious grooves to its intricate harmonic structure.   For those who appreciate both traditional and modern music, "The Clinic" is a must-hear thanks to its flawless production.