Album Review: This Is EJE by The Electronic Jazz Ensemble
Released in 2008, This Is EJE is a bold experiment from The Electronic Jazz Ensemble that blends the soulful vibes of jazz with the gritty edge of hip-hop. Hailing from the US and released under Not On Label, this album feels like an underground gem waiting to be rediscovered. It’s not your typical smooth jazz record or boom-bap-heavy hip-hop project—it’s something else entirely. And honestly? That’s what makes it stick.
One track that really stands out is "Overjoyed." Right off the bat, the song pulls you in with its lush instrumentation and a beat that feels both nostalgic and fresh. There’s this moment where the horns swell alongside the rhythm section—it’s like they’re speaking directly to your soul. You don’t just hear “Overjoyed”; you feel it. It’s one of those rare tracks that could soundtrack a chill evening or pump energy into a creative work session. Either way, it stays with you long after the music stops.
Another standout has to be "The West Side." This cut leans more into the hip-hop side of things, with crisp beats and clever production tricks sprinkled throughout. What hits hardest though is how cinematic it feels. Listening to it, I kept picturing some late-night drive through neon-lit streets, windows down, letting the city breeze wash over me. It’s moody but still uplifting—a vibe that perfectly encapsulates what The Electronic Jazz Ensemble seems to do best.
Tracks like "Memories (Interlude)" and "I Still Belong To You Pt 2" add layers to the listening experience without overstaying their welcome. They give the album breathing room, which prevents it from feeling too packed or overwhelming. Honestly, it’s these little touches that make This Is EJE so re-listenable. Even small moments leave an impression.
Looking back at this album now, it’s kind of wild how ahead of its time it feels. Back in 2008, genre-blending wasn’t as common as it is today, yet here we have a group doing it effortlessly. But maybe that’s why it flew under the radar—people weren’t ready for it yet. Or maybe it was just too cool for mainstream charts. Who knows?
What I do know is this: if you’re into music that challenges boundaries while staying rooted in authenticity, This Is EJE deserves a spot on your playlist. Just don’t blame me when you can’t stop hitting repeat.
Oh, and hey—if anyone finds out why there are two parts to "I Still Belong To You," let me know. That mystery might keep me up at night.
