“EP One” – Fusing Musical Tradition with Innovation for a Crunchy Melodies (2025 Release)
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Known for his collaborations with Gil Scott-Heron since the 1970s, American-born Brian Jackson basks in a richly seasoned musical heritage. Brian Jackson is an adept multi-instrumentalist beyond just playing the piano and flute with boldness and precision, he’s also a singer, composer, and producer, defying the typical vocalist stereotype. Birthed in Brooklyn, New York, his soundscape is heavily curated by his environment and his unique life experiences. His life is punctuated with periods of challenges and triumphs, each phase further adding layers to the raw, emotional textures in his compositions.
Particularly memorable was his partnership with Gil Scott-Heron, which spanned a decade, saw an impressive multitude of joint productions, and ushered in an era of melodic innovation. Their synergy gave birth to notable hits and albums, including the popular “Pieces of a Man,” “Free Will,” and “Winter in America.” Coming to a culmination in 1974 with “The Bottle,” this era of Brian Jackson’s career added a legacy of albums under their combined names before their partnership dissolved in 1980.
Turning a new leaf in the 1980s, Brian Jackson continued making strides in his career, working with top-of-the-line artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, and creatively storming the music scene. His track record demonstrates his versatility and adaptability, as he smoothly transitioned into the solo zone with his debut album, “Gotta Play,” released in October 2000. This album played host to special guest appearances by great minds like Roy Ayers and his old-time partner, Scott-Heron.
Fast forward to 2025 and a new venture, “EP One” has Brian Jackson demonstrating a masterclass in music production as he delivers soulful doses of creativity. With a peppering of musical legacy and community-oriented efforts to collaborate with other renowned minds, Brian Jackson outdoes himself. “EP One” largely expands on the themes and specialties that opened up during the recording sessions that birthed this project. This release encompasses a capacious collection of extended cut versions and unique never-before-heard tracks that are simply too brilliant to be confined to the edges.
The project is an exhibition of Jackson’s showcase of soulful innovation and extended versions of timeless classics such as “Moonshine,” “Lady Day and John Coltrane,” and “Home Is Where the Hatred Is.” A deep focus on the legendary “Racetrack in France” tune, initially recorded in tandem with Gil Scott-Heron in 1977, makes this project all the more captivating.
Highlights of the EP include a live mix of “Moonshine” by the Masters at Work, featuring former Midnight Band/Amnesia Express member Carl Cornwell on saxophone, and a sprawling 12″ version of “Home Is Where the Hatred Is.” This jazz-dancefloor-crossing blend showcases Brian Jackson’s knack for channeling his politically-conscious narratives into sonic elegance.
Whether you are an ardent follower of the musical journeys of Brian Jackson and Gil Scott-Heron, a new listener keenly seeking out fresh and crushing soul and jazz tunes or a DJ chasing after rare musical finds, “EP One” released in 2025, is an essential addition to your playlist. The album showcases not just Jackson’s undeniable talent but also his commitment to producing music that resonates with listeners across generations, highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of soul and jazz. Throughout the years, Brian Jackson has continuously managed to seamlessly weave through various genres and styles, establishing his place as one of the pillars in this musical era and beyond.
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