ContemporaryJazz – Most Wanted

Ruby Wood – Superstar

ByLuke BottomleyInMusic ReviewsOn30/12/202530/12/2025

Smokey and sensual, with a groove straight out of the 70s, “Superstar” is a collaboration that works on every level. The low vocals provided by Ruby Wood swirl into the smooth, bubbly bass and trumpet accents to make a rich sound that’s the audio equivalent of red wine.

“Superstar” is a song about the fantasy of dating a superstar, and the lyrics are filled with a sort of quiet awe that speaks to the head-spinning notion of that premise – though given Wood’s extensive touring and sellout Wembly Arena and Manchester Apollo performances, it’s fair to say she’s the superstar in the relationship.

“Superstar” is R&B at its finest – an easy-listening jam that’s hard to dislike.

Martin Chung – Dark Shores

ByLillie-Apple ChartersInMusic ReviewsOn30/10/202527/10/2025

Guitarist, composer and producer Martin Chung creates immersive and quintessential contemporary jazz. Currently, he performs across multiple genres with acts such as Jah Wobble, the Yorkshire Gypsy Swing Collective, Wadcutter Blues and Ruby Wood. It’s no wonder his track ‘Dark Shores’ has influences from across many styles.

Moody and electronic, ‘Dark Shores’ dives into the “unfathomable depths of the mind”. It begins with a guitar riff, one that you might hear playing on a beach abroad, and slowly melts into a dysphoric, industrial soundscape. The bass is introduced with shocks of noise – some glitchy to mirror our thoughts shooting through our neurons which contrasts nicely against the rippling instrumentation. The intrigue deepens when the drums come in, pulsing lightly and pushing you further into thought. The journey lasts for just under seven minutes, leaving you with more questions than you started with!

Chung takes a mystery and turns it into a sonic masterpiece, all without the need for lyricism. ‘Dark Shores’ is a masterclass in modern jazz composition.

Find out more – https://www.instagram.com/chungulation/