Nintindo Soul

Released in September 2024, Nintindo Soul represents a refined evolution in Terrace Martin's prolific solo discography. While Martin is widely recognized for his pivotal role in shaping the sound of Kendrick Lamar's 'To Pimp a Butterfly' and his work with the supergroup Dinner Party, this album finds him in a more introspective and minimalist mode. The project leans heavily into the 'nu jazz' aesthetic, characterized by its seamless integration of hip-hop rhythmic sensibilities with traditional jazz improvisation. Throughout the 11 tracks, Martin emphasizes melody and texture over technical pyrotechnics, utilizing a blend of analog synthesizers and his signature alto saxophone. The album features a mix of instrumental-focused tracks and soulful vocal contributions, culminating in the expansive 'Love (Crenshaw mix)', which serves as a sprawling tribute to his South Los Angeles roots. Critically, it has been noted for its 'less is more' approach, standing as a serene counterpoint to his more high-energy fusion projects.