Dinner Music: Emma-Jean Thackray
A debut album of wonky beats, mystic jazz and psychedelic funk
Emma-Jean Thackray is thirty-three and a trumpeter, singer, bandleader, beat-maker, radio host DJ and label head. Based on that CV, it’s clear that she’s a master at her craft — jazz. It’s not the jazz you’d hear downstairs at Smalls in NYC or on the streets of New Orleans, though there are elements of that. “Everything I release is based around the mantra ‘music to move the mind, move the body, move the soul’,” she said in an interview with The Quietus.
Yellow, Thackray’s debut, was released in 2021. While listening, it’s impossible to imagine this being anyone’s debut. Clearly, Thackray has some deep skill in composition and arrangement, yet took on the project with a sense of playfulness and good-feeling. It’s an album that is masterful, but doesn’t take itself too seriously. The track Say Something gives us a taste of what’s to come — simple, catchy rhythms that take us on an unexpected journey. The cosmic funk bears its full fruit in Golden Green, an homage to, well, weed. The languorous sound still manages to keep the sexiness of jazz intact. Regardless of your preference, it’s easy to imagine yourself going into full chill mode to that track.
Take a journey, enjoy it.
Yellow - Emma-Jean Thackray
Pair this album with:
Chili Crisp Garlic Butter Spaghetti. I have not yet tried this, but a great friend recalls it being “one of the simplest, but most rewarding meals I’ve made in under thirty minutes.” I’d suggest pairing it with a seared stake smothered in miso butter with a sprinkle of togarashi. s/o spencer 💕
For me, it’s warm now. But, this album DEMANDS a red wine. I’m not even a big red wine drinker (Texas, hot), but it’s one of those things that just makes sense. I recommend this red from Domaine Les Terres Promises. If you’re in Austin and like wine, it was a club pick in Glou Glou Girls last month.
Interested in getting more Dinner Music music? Tomorrow, I’ll be sending a curated playlist to all paying subscribers that includes a full dinner menu suggestion and some ~vibe~ recommendations.
But, honestly, I love doing this and your support means the world to me.
Have a great weekend.