Ameen Saleem stands out as one of the most distinctive bassists on the international jazz scene, bringing together a powerful groove, expressive sound and a musical vision that reaches far beyond the boundaries of jazz. Best known for his work with the Roy Hargrove Quintet and Big Band, Saleem uses The Groove Lab to explore a vibrant neo-soul landscape where jazz, soul, funk, blues and rock come together. Joined by an exceptional cast including Cyrus Chestnut, Jeremy Clemons, Stacy Dillard, Roy Hargrove, Gregory Hutchinson and Craig Magnano, alongside vocalists Mavis Swan Poole and Ramona Dunlopo, he draws on an unusually rich palette of acoustic and electric bass, piano, Rhodes, Wurlitzer, organ, guitar, horns, saxophones, percussion and two distinctive drummers. The music moves effortlessly between deep funk grooves, soulful passages, bluesy improvisations and contemporary jazz, with the ensemble displaying remarkable empathy, freedom and energy throughout. At its heart is Saleem’s bass, providing both the foundation and the direction for a set that is adventurous, colourful and deeply infectious—a highly personal musical journey driven by groove, imagination and an unmistakable sense of discovery.

Track Listing

1. Korinthis
2. Epiphany
3. Don't Walk Away
4. I.L.Y.T.
5. Love Don't
6. Neo
7. For My Baby
8. 'A' Theme
9. Best Kept Secret
10. Baby It'll Be Alright
11. So Glad
12. Possibilities
13. For Tamisha