Oli Morris – Bimal (2021)
While the first lockdown of the pandemic is a memory for all of us, the emotions it invoked have lingered. During this first lockdown, Oli Morris nurtured his single ‘Bimal’ to life. Drawing on yoga teachings from his month-long trip through India, he works through the anxiety we all faced at the time. Telling the emotional journey in two stages, the single unleashes frustration only to reflect on life and appreciate what we have.
The story Morris has to tell washes over some traditional jazz tones. To bring the tale to sonic glory, Morris is joined by Chrissie Huntley (vocals), Eli Jitsuto (guitar), Sam Fox (bass), Ruaridh Wilkinson (piano) and Andee Liu (drums). Since Morris completed his Commercial Music degree, he has been an in-demand sideman in his local music scene and is now ready to unleash his solo work on the world.
There is a silky feeling to the melody of ‘Bimal’. The piano has a slightly woozy feeling to it like you are hearing it through water. The guitar glints off the waters of the track while the beats have your shoulders moving to them. Morris’ saxophone is soothing and emotive as it calls from the depths of the music. As the single progresses, the vibe of the melody takes a turn with some wonderful dynamic movements. In the latter parts of the track, the melody is pure jazz jams and it is utterly amazing. Through the sound, you are transported to a jazz club where the band is just having a blast.
As the melody washes over you with its jazzy tones, the vocals open with a sound sample. This slides into Huntley’s silken vocals that bring a soulful edge to the track. The power in her voice is stunning as she rises and falls with the dynamic melody and has you floating at times. Through her performance, you are treated to the anxiety and frustration of the first lockdown and the peace in acknowledging what we have in life.
Oli Morris hits the scene with a splash of jazzy tones and soulful vocals with ‘Bimal’. Through the tones of the track, he helps soothe anxiety and brings an appreciation for everything in our lives. The track is a masterclass of soulful jazz with an enthralling jazz jam at the end.
Find out more about Oli Morris on his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
