Not everyone can be signed to the Verve label, but Jon Batiste’s has one of those unique mojos. He has an elegance that shines through on the contents of Hollywood Africans. Here, performance isn’t the main thing. Expression of nuances and precision of rhythms with the aim to create harmony is what it’s all about. On the piano, Batiste explores all sorts of possibilities. It therefore comes as no surprise that the album shares its title with Jean-Michel Basquiat’s 1983 art work, as the artist was known for his wide range of influences. The album opens with a very traditional boogie before moving on to the famous What A Wonderful World, it then travels back to the times of Chopin. With Green Hill Zone, the Louisianian conductor and musician even dares wander onto the theme of Japanese composer Nakamura Masato. Hollywood Africans breaks down barriers! Each note played is a soft and delicate push towards an artist’s universe. And when Batiste starts singing, it only brings another layer of sensuality. © Anna Coluthe/Qobuz