Track of the Week: Sicily' Box

Saxophonist and producer Venna’s return Sicily’ Box is as intricate and luxurious as jazz gets, an all-star showcase of the very best talent in the UK scene. 

Venna is a profound artist. Having made his name as a session saxophonist for some of the biggest names in world music such as Wizkid and J Hus, as well as bagging a Grammy for his contributions to Burna Boy’s 23, Venna proceeded to transcend the conventional climb of an ‘instrumentalist’. Releasing his debut solo project VENOLOGY last year, Venna embodied an artist’s spirit through the skill set of a producer and instrumentalist, with the six-pronged EP a dazzling melting pot of encapsulating features and unparalleled musicality. 

His first single of the year and the first glimpse at his upcoming sophomore project, Sicily’ Box is a lounge-laden jazz cut that weaves through rhythmic nuance and melodic meanderings with flawless technicality and effortless grace. Venna enlists three of the best musicians in the country, Yussef Dayes (who Venna has been touring the world with), Marco Bernardis and Rocco Palladino, for the cut, with each creative delivery a masterclass in musicianship, poise and chemistry. Structurally stimulating, we are guided through alternate sections until ending in a spaced out realm of ambiguity and tranquility. 

Reaching beyond the norm, Venna’s drive, ability and boldness has taken him to the top of his field. Next stop? World domination.