Kamasi Washington is a Los-Angeles-based saxophonist who played on Kendrick Lamar's To Pimp A Butterfly and Flying Lotus' You're Dead. He's not properly a beginner having already collaborated with McCoy Tyner, George Duke, The Gaslamp Killer, Snoop Dogg, Lauryn Hill and Quincy Jones among others.
The Epic is Washington's new album on Brainfeeder/Ninja Tune, nearly three-hour collection, exploring a sprawling sonic landscape that takes listeners through a 17-track journey.
Kamasi Washington's core band is made up of friends who date back to (or sometimes before) high school. Together, they comprise the collective called The West Coast Get Down. The band has two drummers, two bass players, both piano and keyboards; three horns and two lead vocals; a 20-piece choir and a 32-piece string section.
Celebrating his worldwide tour this is our interview with the artist blended with a very special mix we recorded as a tribute to Kamasi's music. Enjoy.