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Los Angeles-based professional pianist and beat arranger Kiefer Shackelford, best known simply as Kiefer, is back with a baker’s dozen of bangers! You may have already heard Kiefer’s subtle production contributions on tracks by artists like Anderson .Paak, Kaytranada and more. Kiefer’s investment in the tried and true pairing of hip hop and jazz stems from his array of inspirations, ranging from his contemporary Karriem Riggins, all the way back to classic icons like Bill Evans.
Kiefer’s newest musical exploration comes to us today as Happysad, thirteen tracks whose vague titles leave blurred lines across the emotional spectrum. In contrast to the straightforward bleakness of Kiefer’s 2017 debut Kickinit Alone, Happysad leaves the tone up to the listener, allowing them to soak up every note, beat, chord and nuance. Be sure to burn through the whole record at some point this weekend and you can start right now with “What A Day”.
–Jack Anderson (Host Monday-Wednesday 8-11pm, Saturday 6-10am)
