Goldbloom is a punk jazz band from Brooklyn, known for their unique sound and stylistic diversity. Featuring talented musicians Blake Opper on saxophone, Grant Martin on drums, and Steve Williams on bass, they continue to explore the fusion of punk and traditional jazz. On June 8th, Goldbloom will release their second album, “For Money and Power,” a must-listen for any jazz fan. This album retains the core elements of jazz while integrating the raw energy of punk, creating a sound that’s fresh, experimental, and reminiscent of timeless classics. The sharp contrast between punk’s aggressive dynamics and jazz’s smooth lines makes it highly appealing. The tracks are filled with complex emotions, combining sophisticated harmonies with powerful energy, instantly captivating the listener. I had the chance to listen to the album before its official release and can assure you that Goldbloom is at their best here. “For Money and Power” is a brilliant showcase of their artistic evolution and is essential listening for anyone interested in pushing the boundaries of jazz.

photo by @goldbloomtrio

The opening track of the album, “Redneck,” grabs you right away with its energy, showcasing Goldbloom’s dynamic style from the start. The trio blends aggressive punk rhythms with jazz improvisations, creating a unique sound. Opper’s flawless saxophone, Martin’s powerful and vibrant drumming, and Williams’s groovy bass line create an atmosphere of complete immersion in the world of jazz.

In my opinion, the standout feature of Goldbloom’s new album is how skillfully they reveal their style from track to track. In “Ketchup Man,” the carefree and light atmosphere transports me to the heart of neon-lit city streets. Goldbloom follows the classic tenets of jazz music, and most importantly, they bring their energy, vision, and unique execution to it. You’ll be amazed when “Roger Ebert v The State of Illinois” pulls you into the band’s stylish sound. As you listen, it feels like Goldbloom is speaking to you through their music. The vibrant solos from each musician urge you to close your eyes and get lost in the music. You might find yourself tapping your foot or nodding your head to the beat, and when that happens, just go with the rhythm!

In “Cash Grab,” Goldbloom pays homage to their Texas roots, offering listeners excellent jazz that inspires dreams. Meanwhile, in “Another Knight,” their stylish punk jazz fills the space with a unique sound. It’s a powerful, deep, and thoughtful sound that, for me, opened up new dimensions of jazz. The album concludes with the resonant, expansive, and stylish “Still Kansas.” When I first heard this track, I found myself completely introspective. Perhaps it’s the multi-layered and textured sound. “Still Kansas” feels very cozy, creating an almost ethereal haze that brings a sense of calm.

I don’t know how else to describe it, but I’ll say it as it is: the guys have found a unique sound by blending the unblendable, and it’s simply awesome! Each track is like a separate story that touches, inspires, or makes you think. This album is a treasure for those tired of monotony and looking for something fresh and memorable.

They call themselves a punk-jazz trio, and honestly, I couldn’t agree more with that description. Punk has always been about breaking the rules, pushing boundaries, and expressing raw, unfiltered emotion. It’s about freedom and the refusal to be boxed in by conventional standards. This album captures that essence perfectly. Every track feels like an exploration of what happens when you let go of constraints and just let the music flow. The jazz elements bring in a smooth, sophisticated touch, blending seamlessly with the gritty, rebellious energy of punk. It’s like nothing I’ve ever heard before, a fresh and exciting sound that’s both chaotic and beautifully harmonious.

“For Money and Power” is a vivid example of Goldbloom’s musical evolution. This album is definitely worth the attention of anyone who appreciates high-quality and original music. Don’t miss it, because albums like this don’t come out every day. After this release, your playlists will likely be filled with new favorite tracks. Remember the date — June 8th. It’s going to be hot!

*This review was made possible by SubmitHub