Water Suite (Thirst) (Kassa Overall Remix)
Sly5thAve

Kassa Overall delivers an innovative rework of Sly5thAve’s “Water Suite (Thirst)”, infusing the original composition with his avant-garde experimentation and hip-hop production. Known for his sophisticated compositions and orchestral prowess, Sly5thAve’s “Water Suite (Thirst)” is taken from his critically acclaimed third album ‘Liberation’.

American Grammy-nominated musician, emcee, producer and drummer Kassa Overall is recognised for pushing the boundaries between jazz and rap, crafting fresh sonic landscapes that challenge traditional genres. Speaking about his remix, Kassa shared, “I have known Sly for a few years now, and he is a rare, talented, multi-faceted artist that is comfortable in any musical setting. Whether he’s arranging, performing with others or bringing a unique concept to the forefront as a leader, he always fits right in. He also knows how to draw together different musical approaches and make them fit together seamlessly. The Water Suite (Thirst) track felt like the perfect opportunity to connect my skillset with his, as the original had the lush texture of a throwback 70’s joint with strings, but also had a lot of space in it for me to take it somewhere new.”

Opening ‘Liberation’ is the four-part “Water Song” suite: “I Thirst”, “II Drowning”, “III Sanctuary”, and finally, “IV Renewal”. A patient evolution of several years, beginning as a hip-hop beat and water-splashing sample, the suite evokes the versatility of the “Sly5thAve sound”, using the metaphor of water to convey the power, peace and impermanence of the element at the heart of all four parts. Speaking about Kassa’s interpretation of “Water Suite (Thirst)”, Sly5thAve says:

“Kassa was once called by a mutual friend “the Kanye West of jazz”, and I’m inclined to agree. There isn’t much he can’t do, and he has managed to completely turn perceptions of what should be “jazz” music completely on their head. He is a genius and innovator in my eyes. His records are constantly in my rotation and I love putting people on to his music because they are always blown away. When I got the opportunity to work with him on this remix of “Water Song”, of course, I was excited! And he did not disappoint. Kassa brings his unique sound that only he can do to “Water Song” and re-imagines it in a way that leaves you feeling goosebumps.”