Imperial Boxmen – Imperial Boxmen

"We’re excited to bring you the debut self-titled album from Chicago’s Imperial Boxmen. This vinyl 8-track journey through an international confluence of
downtempo, jazz, and funk has been aptly described as “jazz for hip hop and deep house heads.” Similar artists include Kamaal Williams, Yussef Dayes, Sons of Kermet, Robert Glasper and Makayo McCraven.

Imperial Boxmen represents a culmination of keyboardist/producer Kevin Ford's years of live experimentation and studio compostion. The album features a power ensemble of heavyweight Chicago players.

This album builds on Ford's incredible catalog and resume collaborating, and performing with the late Fela Kuti drummer, Tony Allen and Chicago Afrobeat Project.

Ford's sensibilities as an electronic music producer and downtempo DJ shine through his compositions drawing comparisons to UK jazz breakout start Kamaal Williams. However, Ford's style is uniquely his and when combined with Alex Austin's masterful bass tactics, Noah Plotkin's authentic 70s drumming style, and the rhythmic virtuosity of Downbeat Magazine award winner Jonathan Marks' drum and percussion performances, the result is truly special. "