JT’s Electrik Blackout by Justin Tibbs: Album Review

by Damien Reid December 19, 2022

December 19, 2022

JT’s Electrik Blackout by Justin Tibbs: Album Review

Musically diversified, vibrant, and filled with the sensations of funky jazz, JT’s Electrik Blackout is a dreamy album by Justin Tibbs. Along with his incredibly moving saxophone segments, and joined by other talented musicians, a stellar instrumental strength is delivered. Altogether, it transcends all the way to the top of its melodic zenith. Encompassing the exploration of jazz and funk through 8 captivating tracks, the music truly goes all out in each of them.

Greeting the album with tracks such as “Caffeine Rage” and “A Funky Nightmare”, we get a colorful perspective of just how the band likes to handle their musical conversations. Each instrument from the saxophone to the bass has a veteran touch that sounds extra polished and neat. There’s a wonderful element with each instrument, one moment you’re hearing the keys dance around, and the saxophone just playfully enters the scene having a fine go at the groovin’ as well. Once we reach the somber essence of “Blackout Interlude”, we find ourselves in a dark warm corner. Afterward, when the uprising transition takes place, the saxophone forms an equilibrium of soul and blue jazz in an arrangement to get us hooked. Also, the music could fit perfectly towards an actual city blackout, and I’m sure everyone will find comfort in such a wholesome track!

“3 A.M. Text” is an interesting blend of smooth jazz, and the bassline is in a league of its own too. Incorporating some pretty fancy rhythm sections by exploring the fretboard, it all feels like a wonderful form of musical spontaneity.