Nautilus

Nautilus creates a sound that feels like a high-definition photograph of a 1970s jazz-funk session. It is deeply rooted in the 'Rare Groove' aesthetic, prioritizing a tight, pocket-heavy rhythm section and the lush, unmistakable shimmer of Rhodes pianos and vintage synthesizers. While their foundation is instrumental jazz, the energy is borrowed from the golden era of hip-hop production, resulting in music that is both intellectually stimulating and physically infectious.

What truly distinguishes the trio is their curatorial ear. They specialize in 're-interpreting' the DNA of soul and hip-hop, taking tracks by artists like De La Soul or Roy Ayers and stripping them back to a raw, trio-based essence. The drumming is crisp and forward in the mix, often mimicking the repetitive, hypnotic nature of a sampled breakbeat but played with the fluid dynamics of a live jazz master.

Start with 'Atlantis' or their cover of 'We Live in Brooklyn Baby' to hear how they bridge the gap between Tokyo's modern jazz scene and the gritty soul of 1970s New York. It is the perfect soundtrack for moments that require a blend of sophistication and grit, making it an essential discovery for fans of both instrumental hip-hop and contemporary nu-jazz.