Gregory Hutchinson Delivers His Highly Anticipated Album “Da Bang”
By: Chris Buxton IG: @chrisbuxtonllg
Gregory Hutchinson is someone that deserves your attention. Hailing from Brooklyn, NY, the experienced drummer, multi-instrumentalist, & songwriter has made a name for himself with his ability to craft music that speaks to your soul. His rich knowledge of music and the world has made him a pioneer of modern jazz. Hutchinson’s sound is expansive and refreshing. Through his talent, he has been able to work with jazz greats like Wynton Marsalis, Joshua Redman, Diana Krall and Harry Connick Jr., among others. Hutchinson has also collaborated with artists like Karreim Riggins, Ledisi, James Poysner and Common, whom he hit the road with for his Like Water for Chocolate tour during the early 2000s. When you take a look into his musical career, one can see he has done it all. He is genuine, captivating, and he is one of the best drummers that I’ve had the pleasure of listening to. Hutchinson is a musical chameleon and relevance across multiple genres. Now, he enters our pages with his debut solo-album “Da Bang”.
Hutchinson’s 15-track album takes listeners on a sonic journey that serves as a testament to his growth and triumphs over the years. For me, the album shows his versatility and ability to break genre barriers to craft a refreshing project that appeals to all. Hutchinson cites diverse beacons of influence for Da Bang such as J Dilla, Pete Rock, Madlib, Karriem Riggins, James Taylor, and Carole King. When you listen to the project, you will be amazed with how he was able to blend the various sounds. However, that is what the greats do. They find a way to create great music with their musical talents.
Although he does feature his jazz sound, the project goes beyond that by exploring elements of hip-hop, punk, R&B, & Neo-Soul. My favorite songs from the album were “When They’re Gone (feat. Samora & James Poyser)” & “New Dawn (feat. Liselotte Östblom)”. “New Dawn” is laced with engaging percussion, lush melodies, and enchanting vocals that will make you want to fall in love. I almost felt like I was in a trance listening to this song. The song structure and overall pacing of this record is exceptional. “New Dawn” is about being in touch with yourself and it’s about keeping that inner hustle to better yourself. Sonically, I loved the rolling bass lines, shiny piano hooks, and Liselotte’s vocals were otherworldly. My personal favorite was “When They’re Gone”. I loved the texture on this record and the expressive vocals from Samora really bring this record out. I have always been a sucker for rugged beats with a “heady” feel, and “When They’re Gone” lives up to that expectation. The song was inspired by Hutchinson’s divorce and the passing of jazz trumpeter Wallace Roney, who died at just 59 from COVID, and the tragic death of Kobe Bryant, who, like Hutchinson, was a devoted father. With its deep meaning, the record has become my favorite on the project.
Overall, Hutchinson has proven his worth time & time again, and this album is his magnum opus. This is his victory lap. This is my favorite album of the year. So, stream it below and vibe out!
