Over the last couple of years we’ve gotten to know all about multi-instrumentalist and former child prodigy JUSTIN LEE SCHULTZ. A series of acclaimed singles and his 2020 album ‘Gruv Kid’ won him plenty of acclaim and since then his career has moved onwards and upwards. That trajectory continued via a 2022 “trio” album – J3’s ‘Opus 1’. The 3 “J”S being Justin, his sister Jamie Leigh Schultz (a drummer who worked with him on ‘Gruv Kid’) and another multi-instrumentalist Jaden Baker.
Right now Justin is preparing his second solo album, ‘Just In The Moment’ (above) and he’s just released the LP- heralding single – his take on the Eddie Harris 1965 classic ‘Freedom Jazz Dance’. An ambitious choice for sure, but young Mr S (he’s only 17!) isn’t daunted one little bit by the tune’s reputation. Indeed he’s so confident that he’s drafted in Robert Glasper to add support. Between them they give the tune a funky old ripple and a retro feel via the use of the talk box. Schultz himself provides the vocals, keys, horns, bass, lead and rhythm guitar and Jamie-Lee Schultz (sister, remember?) plays the drums.
‘Freedom Jazz Dance’ is out now via Shanachie; the album’s due September
