Blvck Spvde and The Cosmos: A Spiritual Odyssey in Jazz, Afrobeat, and Soul
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Blvck Spvde, a St. Louis-based artist with a multifaceted career in music and fashion, has long been a creative force within underground music circles. His work, spanning decades, is characterized by a relentless pursuit of authenticity and innovation, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and his deep connection to African American musical traditions. With the formation of Blvck Spvde and The Cosmos, Spvde has expanded his artistic vision, creating a collective that blends jazz, Afrobeat, rock, and soul into a unique and powerful sound. The ensemble’s music is more than just a performance; it’s a spiritual journey that seeks to connect with ancestral voices and craft moments of transcendence.
The inception of Blvck Spvde and The Cosmos was sparked by a profound loss— the passing of Spvde’s father in 2019. This event not only inspired the creation of the band but also deeply influenced its musical direction. The group, which includes young talents like guitarist Joey Ferber and saxophonist Vintvge Vibes, was brought together by a shared passion for free jazz and experimental sounds. Their collective aim is to channel the spirit of Spvde’s father and the rich musical traditions he embodied. The band’s debut album is a testament to this mission, featuring tracks that evoke the cosmic sounds of jazz legends like Sun Ra and Pharoah Sanders, while also drawing from the modern influences of artists like Madlib and Q-Tip.
Collaborations have played a significant role in the development of Blvck Spvde and The Cosmos. The partnership with the Brothers Lazaroff, who produced the Laz Jazz Festival in St. Louis, was particularly influential. This collaboration not only facilitated the recording of their debut album but also helped craft the band’s first music video for their lead single, “Doom.” The song, which was recorded live in an intimate session at Blank Space—a venue co-owned by Spvde—marks the official launch of the band into the broader music scene. The album’s creation was not without challenges, but these obstacles were met with resilience, transforming setbacks into opportunities for creative growth.
Blvck Spvde’s music is deeply rooted in personal history and the broader tapestry of black musical heritage. The track “Never Be Another,” for instance, is a powerful declaration of staying true to one’s heart, featuring a thrilling drum battle that highlights the ensemble’s dynamic energy. The album also includes a reimagined version of Bobby Caldwell’s classic “What You Won’t Do,” offering a poignant reflection on love and relationships. Each track on the album is a piece of a larger puzzle, one that seeks to create a sense of unity and joy through the universal language of music. As the band continues to evolve, Blvck Spvde and The Cosmos remain committed to pushing the boundaries of their sound, always in search of new ways to connect with their audience and bring a bit of heaven to earth through their music.
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