The “World Over” EP is a collaborative work issued by the band known as INTERCONTINEN7AL. Formed during the tough days of the 2020 worldwide pandemic, this collection of 22 artists from all seven continents, including Antarctica, goes to highlight the resilience – and quite honestly, the terrible conditions brought by the pandemic—, the creativity, and the unifying force of music. This EP demonstrates their musical skill and marks a historic achievement as the first band to record original tunes with instrumentation supplied from every continent. With over 150 media features and a rising global fanbase, INTERCONTINEN7AL has garnered major exposure and is prepared for its well-deserved glory.

The band originated in Columbia, Maryland, where Matt Smith and his former band “Toast” began experimenting with virtual collaboration utilizing BandLab, a music platform that facilitates cooperation. What started as a local endeavor suddenly developed into a global initiative. Inspired by the idea of expanding the “Sonic Highways” concept to a worldwide scale, the band then began by inviting musicians from diverse backgrounds to contribute, thereby breaking barriers of geography and culture, culminating in a project that resonated across the globe with the help of BandLab. Over time, INTERCONTINEN7AL increased its roster and published over five albums, establishing its place in music history.

Puerto Aisen

Their mission extends beyond music. The band has a dedication to make the world a better place and they contribute by donating all proceeds from streams to humanitarian causes, their works have been lauded in magazines like the San Diego Union-Tribune, The Denver Post, and Focusrite, among many others. Their interviews and features further illustrate their passion for collaboration and their determination to using music as a force for good.

This EP comprises 5 songs with a combined streaming time of roughly thirty minutes. Songs on the EP include Puerto Aisen, Night Shift, Butterflies, The Chamber, and Manor Hill (Remaster 2022). “Puerto Aisen,” being the first track, with its gentle speed and calming tone, is all about closeness and connection. The lyrics such as “As the dance that we make brings us close to the end / And the moon shines her face on our bodies again” are emblematic of this intimacy. There is an interplay between the song’s calm melody and the emotional depth of its lyrics that captures the essence of cherished and “once-in-a-lifetime” occurrences. The song is truly set apart by its delicate instrumental layering, further playing into the song’s idea of vulnerability and close connection.

Night Shift

Aside from “Puerto Aisen,” another standout on the EP is “Night Shift.” It commences with a minute-and-a-half-long guitar intro recorded in Antarctica that immediately conveys a tone of tranquility and perhaps remoteness. The duet has lyrics that talk about solace and atonement, as evidenced in lines such as, “Rest all your senses, lay down your defenses on the night shift.” The music switches midway into a darker tone, which produces a noticeable contrast in ideas. At eight minutes long, its structure makes it an unforgettable listening experience.

The third song on the EP “Butterflies”, With its light-hearted and romantic tune, is a shift from the others. The lyrics reflect the excitement of newfound love with lines like “Let your finger linger over my cheek, my neck, my arm.” The song’s lighthearted rhythm generates an uplifting mood, making it a favorite for listeners wanting a taste of excitement and nostalgia.

Butterflies

Other tracks on the EP, such as “The Chamber” and “Manor Hill (Remaster)” provide complexity to the EP. They merge influences of blues and classical music, as well as a reinterpretation of an earlier piece, which reflects the band’s evolution. The remaster improves upon production quality, accentuating its powerful instruments and heartfelt lyrics and making it their own.

The success of “World Over” resides not only in its musicianship but also in its message. Each music demonstrates a joint effort and hard work, displaying the unifying power of art. As the INTERCONTINEN7AL band continues its voyage, it serves as a reminder of what’s possible when creativity, technology, and a shared goal come together. “World Over” is a milestone in music history and a beacon of hope for what collaborative art may achieve.

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Manava Lery, a gifted French jazz singer and songwriter, has made something really special with her first album, “Blowing Changes.” This 14-song collection mixes the classic charm of jazz with a fresh, modern feel, all brought to life by her warm and welcoming voice. With her music, Manava hopes to connect with long-time jazz fans and introduce the genre to a whole new audience. Starting her journey in Paris, she’s made a name for herself with her unique style—a mix of storytelling and jazzy charm. And now, she’s reaching listeners from all over the world, from Paris to Brussels, Lyon, and beyond.

From the first note of “Blowing Changes,” it’s clear that this album is a journey through the many different styles of jazz. Whether it’s the smooth flow of bossa nova, the cool vibe of smooth jazz, the lively swing of classic jazz, or the energetic Charleston rhythm, each song feels like its own world. But no matter the style, Manava always stays true to herself, making every track feel personal and fresh.

I’m Not Drunk

The opening track, “I’m Not Drunk,” sets the stage with a fun, lighthearted vibe. The lyrics, “I march to the beat of my own drum, even if it’s slightly off-key,” are all about being yourself, no matter what. It’s a song that celebrates individuality and creative freedom. With its bouncy piano and saxophone, it carries the spirit of classic jazz but feels modern and easy to listen to. It’s the perfect way to kick off an album that’s all about embracing who you are.

Then there’s “I Wanna Dance the Charleston,” a song that takes you back to the glitz and glamour of the 1920s. It’s playful, energetic, and full of life, with lyrics that make you want to twirl and spin on the dance floor. You can almost feel the sparkle of the era as you listen. The rhythm is so infectious that it’s hard not to tap your feet along to it. This song is all about joy and letting go, reminding us that life is meant to be celebrated.

I Wanna Dance the Charleston

Among the many highlights on the album, “Put the Blame on Mame” stands out with its smooth, seductive charm, taking you back to the vibe of those cozy, dimly lit jazz clubs. “Peach Bubble Tea” is a fun, modern twist on jazz, showing that Manava isn’t afraid to mix things up and bring in fresh ideas. And then there’s “Butterfly on Her Shoulder,” which offers a softer, more dreamy moment in the middle of all the energy, giving listeners a chance to pause and reflect.

Manava also shares her French roots with the songs “Sur ma peau fa sol la si do” and “Je voudrais savoir.” The songs in French add a nice touch and show off Manava’s background. The French words make the album feel more personal. “Trust Me Baby,” with its smooth saxophone, creates a cozy, inviting feel, while “How to Deal with Heartbreak” ends things on a more serious note, talking about love and loss in a real way.

How to Deal with Heartbreak

“Blowing Changes” is all about change. Whether it’s growing, the way jazz has changed, or finding ourselves, this album is about transformation. The title shows that, like jazz, life is always moving. It reminds us to relax and go with the flow, just like jazz musicians do when improvising. It’s a sweet reminder that sometimes the best things happen when we don’t expect them.

What makes Manava’s music so special is her ability to mix humor, reflection, and hope into every song. Her lyrics are simple yet meaningful, with enough depth to make you think while still being easy to enjoy. She has a way of weaving complex emotions into her songs, so they resonate with you on multiple levels, whether you’re drawn to the melodies or the deeper themes of love, life, and growth.

With “Blowing Changes,” Manava Lery has proven herself as an exciting new voice in the world of jazz. The album is a statement about who Manava is as an artist and where she’s headed. The response has been amazing, with thousands of listeners from all over the world. If you love jazz or are just curious about it, this album is worth a listen. Manava is just starting, and her future in jazz looks bright. Keep an eye on her—she’s sure to bring us even more great music.

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