Skyjack - Light Cycle (2024)

Welcome to the sonic universe of Skyjack, where the boundaries of jazz are pushed, prodded, and transcended with every note. Born from the meeting of South African jazz stalwarts and Swiss virtuosos, Skyjack is a force to be reckoned with, blending Cape Jazz with contemporary innovation to create something truly extraordinary. With Marc Stucki on saxophone, Andreas Tschopp on trombone and kudu horn, Kyle Shepherd on piano, Shane Cooper on double bass, and Jonno Sweetman on drums, Skyjack is a powerhouse ensemble that defies categorization. Recorded in studios across South Africa and mixed in Berlin, “Light Cycle“ is their magnum opus, a sprawling epic that spans genres and continents. From the ethereal melodies of “Like a Leaf on a Tree“ to the frenetic energy of “Future Past,“ each track on “Light Cycle“ is a journey unto itself, guided by the masterful musicianship of the band. With compositions that blend science fiction with folklore, Skyjack creates a sonic landscape that is as vast as the cosmos itself. Released on the esteemed As-Shams/The Sun label, “Light Cycle“ is a testament to the enduring legacy of South African jazz and the boundless creativity of its practitioners. With stunning cover artwork by Cape Town artist Igshaan Adams, the album is a feast for the ears and the eyes alike. So buckle up and prepare for takeoff as Skyjack takes you on a musical odyssey like no other. “Light Cycle“ is not just an album – it’s a sonic adventure that will leave you breathless and wanting more. *Tracklist:* 00:00 - 1. All the Flame 07:27 - 2. Like a Leaf on a Tree 13:10 - 3. Light Cycle / Vang Gou Die Strandloper 21:50 - 4. Hey Stranger 24:10 - 5. Future Past 35:29 - 6. Method of Moments 40:57 - 7. Morge Früeh Eh D’Sunne Lacht 52:37 - 8. Porcupine 58:40 - 9. Kudu Chant 01:00:55 - 10. Zaubergarten (for Oscar) 01:03:56 - 11. Radha Intro 01:05:48 - 12. Radha III 01:12:46 - 13. The Storm That Guides You *Members:* Marc Stucki: _Saxophone_ Andreas Tschopp: _Trombone, Kudu Horn_ Kyle Shepherd: _Piano_ Shane Cooper: _Double Bass_ Jonno Sweetman: _Drums_ *Additional Credits:* Produced By SKYJACK In 2023 Recorded By Jürgen von Wechmar At Sunset Recording Studios - Stellenbosch, South Africa Additional Recordings By Shane Cooper At Kujua Records Studio - Johannesburg, South Africa Mixed And Mastered By Martin Ruch At Control Room Berlin - Germany Cover Artwork By Igshaan Adams Design And Layout By Romy Brauteseth Produced For As-Shams By Calum MacNaughton * Track Sequencing Differs On 2LP Vinyl Edition //