Alabaster Deplume - A Blade Because A Blade Is Whole (2025)

Alabaster DePlume's seventh studio album, A Blade Because a Blade Is Whole , released on March 7, 2025, delves into themes of healing and self-reflection. Departing from his previous improvisational methods, DePlume adopts a meticulous approach, crafting compositions that blend his emotive saxophone melodies with poignant spoken-word poetry. Tracks like "Oh My Actual Days" and "Thank You My Pain" exemplify his ability to intertwine vulnerability with strength, offering listeners a meditative journey through personal growth. Critics have praised the album's graceful arrangements and its capacity to resonate emotionally, highlighting DePlume's unique fusion of jazz and poetic introspection. Sources: Pitchfork The Guardian The Quietus Glide Magazine The Skinny Genre : Chamber Jazz Country : UK Final Verdict: 68% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 28th / 252 Highlight : Salty Road Dogs Victory Anthem Made me think of: Shabaka Hutchings Moses Sumney Kamas...