Jneiro Jarel – Flora

Jarel’s Perfect Bouquet

Brooklyn native Jneiro Jarel has had an extensive career. With roles ranging from recording artist to music producer to DJ, Jarel has done it all. On his latest EP, Flora, Jarel puts his talents together on five tracks. Jarel’s work is often described as “experimental” and “abstract” –  another adjective that should always appear in that conversation is “talented.” Even if what he does isn’t necessarily your cup of tea, you have to give credit were credit is due – and Jarel does what he does well.

The first track, “Path,” appears twice on Flora. Once with vocals featuring rapper GONE and then once again ending the album with just the instrumental.  The vocal version is O.K., but, when stripped away, the instrumental version shines brighter. The lush atmosphere Jarel creates is the center piece; added vocals just distract. The second track, “Cahuita,” starts off sounding eerily, like a track Trent Reznor might have had his hand in before transforming into this almost futuristic jazz number. “Cahuita” stands out amongst the other tracks on the album.

“Viberian Skies” and “Gibbon in The Mist,” both have a some what meditative quality to them. “Viberian Skies” has a sense of tranquility while “Gibbon in The Mist,” does as well – the latter also carries a more inspiring tone.

Jneiro Jarel has the innate ability to articulate beautiful soundscapes using technology in a way many of his peers could only dream of. Jarel has released countless albums either on his own or with others and time and time again his talents shine through. Each track tells a story and stands on its own. Flora is the perfect title for this album because it blooms and flourishes like the plant life its definition describes.