10 Seconds: Elias Jordan Atkinson

"Brother this was tough! There’s a lot of angles that I could’ve taken for this – For now I’ve just had to go with a selection that’s shaped and inspired me, regardless if they’re only heard in partiality. So, to those reading and listening through enjoy and big up to George for his relentless work and offerings."

- Elias Jordan Atkinson

1. Third World – Fret Not Thyself (0'17" - 0'27" and 2'39" - 2'49")

"Breaking rules off the jump. Forgive me, but what’s life without going a little beyond parameters like this. Growing up this was one of the songs blasted out at home. From lyrics to instrumentation, it’s a timeless one - The 12” mix of “Cool Meditation” off this album is also a vibe, definitely worth checking out if you haven’t already."

2. Tyler The Creator - Garden Shed (1'37" -1'47")

"This one’s here in dedication to Jason Blackwood, a friend and brother of mine that passed on when we were 17. Sentimental reasons aside, the production, Tyler’s versatility and Estelle’s vocals! Need I say more."

3. Christian Scott Atunde Adjua - Isadora (0'19" - 0'29")

"Yeah, deep one. I have to give Christian his flowers. The time in practice it takes to produce that sound and tone consistently with a mute is hard man. At this current moment in time, I’ve only heard that sort of soulfulness from Miles and another world class musician Dylan Jones. They all have a completely different style but you can hear Miles’s influence reign through in their playing - as with most horn players that’ve thoroughly studied his art and made it their own."

4. Ofori Amponsah - Otoolege (0'00" - 0'10")

"Chale you see this here! Haha if you’ve ever been to a Ghanaian wedding or any sort of celebration - you’ll probably end up hearing this at some point. It’s a song that gets everyone up and out of their seats to dance the second it’s played, a true classic. Also, honourable mention to Daddy Lumba “Aben Wo Aha”, another outright classic for us. Plenty love to my GH people out there."

5. D'Angelo - Spanish Joint (2'30" -2'40")

"This brother’s catalogue of music is ridiculous, I’m sure people are already aware - So to pick 10 seconds out of the many absolute riddims he’s released is criminal. That being said, this moment in the arrangement you just need to appreciate. 10 seconds “Just won’t do”. Roy Hargrove on Flugelhorn and Trumpet, unnecessary fuel to the fire. Charlie Hunter playing both Bass and Guitar as well, blew my mind when I found that out. Some very serious musicianship, have to give credit n respect when its due."

6. Roy Hargrove - Family (1'29" - 1'39")

6. Roy Hargrove - You Go To My Head (3'23" - 3'33")

"A joint sixth. Again, forgive me, but man where to even start. I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting him, but to hear Roy play on records and see live videos has been just as momentous for me and I’m at peace with that. A real inspiration of mine, surpassing the music. But coming back to these 10 seconds, I’ve highlighted the two passages here for its virtuosity. Every note Roy plays carries weight and integrity but they simultaneously fit into the flow of the songs, Music 101 but its significant to me for how seamless he makes it. That 10 seconds of “You go to my head” is just ridiculous musical language, pure bars. I got a lot more to say about the man but I’ll keep it brief.

7. Tasha Cobbs Leonard - You Know My Name (5'10" - 5'20")

"Honestly just take it in for its entirety, pick any 10 seconds you’d like. There’s 8 minutes and 1 second of praise and worship to choose from. The build-up of vocals in this song is touching and powerful to say the least. As a man of God this song uplifts me. Tasha, Jimi and the guest vocalists move with conviction and strength that I’m sure can be felt even if you aren’t someone who believes in God. Furthermore, people need more “gospel” in their life especially in London where the suns a rarity, mirage if that and man are just depressed 'n tired haha. This’ll breathe some fresh air into the atmosphere and change up the ambiance."

8. Earth, Wind & Fire - The Departure (3'14" - 3'24")

" Finally, another one you could genuinely pick any moment for 10 seconds, but I’ve chose to highlight more or less the end part of the song for its unapologetic blissfulness. One of them riddims you can’t help but be moved by. Maurice White on Kalimba and a whole other stacked list of powerhouse musicians all in the YT description. Songs a small portion of peace in a world full of sorrow and despair, a true gem man."

Honourable mentions

9. Herbie Hancock - Spiralling Prism (2'30" - 2'40")