De La Soul rapped “Three. That’s the Magic Number” on their classic track “The Magic Number.” On this latest live album from the Jazz + Hip Hop group Kase, the number three could represent the members of this eclectic ensemble – Jamie Breiwick (trumpet), John Christensen (upright bass) & Jordan Lee (turntables, electronics). But on a deeper level, the number three represents the magic of Black creative culture – Jazz, Hip Hop & Spoken Word.

KASE and spoken word artist Tiffany Miller seamlessly blend improvisational jazz rhythms with a sonic palette of beats and scratches. At the album’s heart is Miller’s soulful and honest words that are spoken with an unbridled passion.

If there was a sequel to the 1997 film Love Jones, these beautifully crafted songs would definitely be featured in the movie and on its soundtrack. Miller’s words could be the backbone of this imaginary plot with themes of self-care, curiosity, and of course, love & relationships.

Yes, this album is a beautiful tribute to Jazz, Hip Hop and Spoken Word. But the album is so much that. I feel joy and nostalgia simultaneously. I feel the possibilities of what could be. KASE and Tiffany Miller created something magical out of the number three.

TARIK MOODY, Radio Milwaukee/Hyfin