Trumpeter, composer, and bandleader Igmar Thomas has just released a genre-blending single, “Thelonius,” featuring a guest verse from Talib Kweli. The track merges jazz and hip-hop into a seamless two-part suite, honoring two legends. Jazz pioneer Thelonious Monk and iconic hip-hop producer J Dilla. This electrifying fusion offers listeners a sonic experience that bridges eras and genres with ease.
“Thelonius” isn’t just a stand-alone piece. It’s part of a larger narrative that traces the shared evolution of jazz and hip-hop. Originally commissioned by SummerStage for a 2016 performance in Central Park, the piece was born from the Revive Big Band’s show A Journey Through The Legacy Of Black Culture. At that performance, Thomas and his ensemble fused Monk’s bebop classic “Thelonious” with Dilla’s instrumental of the same name, featured on Common’s Like Water For Chocolate. Now, in 2024, this unique blend finally gets its digital release, complete with a high-energy big band arrangement and Kweli’s lyrical contribution.
Jazz Meets Hip-Hop: A Dynamic Evolution
Speaking about the single, Igmar Thomas emphasized the organic connection between jazz and hip-hop. “‘Thelonius’ demonstrates exactly how closely related jazz and hip-hop are, and how they can once again easily evolve into one another. It brings together the best of two musical worlds,” Thomas explains. To amplify the song’s energy, he composed a new section, ending with a high-octane shout chorus that pushes the piece into bold, uncharted territory.
This release not only highlights the stylistic synergy between two musical giants but also signals the versatility of the Revive Big Band. This is a 20+ piece ensemble known for its fearless exploration of jazz, hip-hop, soul, gospel, and funk. Since its inception in 2010, the group has remained committed to reimagining sonic freedom, featuring an impressive roster of musicians, including trombonist Ku-umba Frank Lacy, saxophonist Marcus Strickland, and Thelonious Monk Competition winner Ben Williams.
Like A Tree It Grows: A Tribute to Megan Stabile
“Thelonius” is part of the Revive Big Band’s highly anticipated debut album, Like A Tree It Grows, scheduled for release on October 25, 2024. The album pays homage to Megan Stabile, the late founder of Revive Music Group, whose visionary work bridged the gap between hip-hop audiences and jazz traditionalists. Stabile’s efforts were instrumental in launching the Revive Big Band, and this album serves as both a tribute to her legacy and a continuation of her mission.
The album promises a stellar lineup of collaborators, including Bilal, Nicholas Payton, Jean Baylor, Myron Walden, and the late Dr. Lonnie Smith. With a mix of original compositions and reimagined classics, the project reflects the diversity and vibrancy of modern jazz.
Tracklist for Like A Tree It Grows:
- R&P
- Levels (Feat. Bilal, Igmar Thomas)
- Speak No Evil (Feat. Myron Walden)
- Words I Manifest (Feat. Raydar Ellis, Sean Jones)
- One Of A Kind (Feat. Ben Williams, Nicholas Payton)
- The Coming
- Infant Eyes (Feat. Jean Baylor, Marcus Strickland)
- Thelonious (Feat. Nicholas Payton)
- Thelonius (Feat. Talib Kweli)
- Lonius
- Mark’s Hope (Feat. Mark Whitfield)
- Fortress Of Hope (Feat. Mark Whitfield)
- Angst (Feat. Marcus Strickland, Igmar Thomas)
- To Kinda Lounge Around (Feat. Raydar Ellis, Terrace Martin, Nicholas Payton)
- Rrunnin’ Outa Time (Feat. Marc Cary, Igmar Thomas)
- Play It Back (Feat. Dr. Lonnie Smith, Cory Henry, Gregoire Maret)
A Legacy of Sonic Freedom
The Revive Big Band’s mission is to challenge the limits of musical expression. Led by Igmar Thomas, the ensemble creates a bridge between jazz’s storied past and hip-hop’s cutting-edge evolution. As they prepare to release Like A Tree It Grows, they continue to honor both individual and collective legacies while boldly embracing new artistic possibilities.
Pre-Order Like A Tree It Grows
Fans can pre-order the album now on all major digital platforms and prepare for its official release on October 25th. In the meantime, listeners can dive into “Thelonius” and experience the thrilling collaboration between Igmar Thomas, Talib Kweli, and the powerhouse Revive Big Band.
Stream “Thelonius” today and follow the Revive Big Band’s journey into uncharted musical territory.
