The term ‘unique’ may be overused in today’s musical landscape, but it is undeniably applicable when it comes to describing the sounds of Melbourne-based outfit LABJACD. A nine piece ensemble incorporating classic jazz elements (sax, piano, double bass, trumpet), hip hop (a DJ and 3 MCs, singing and rapping in English and Spanish) and a hefty dose of South American flavour (charango, zamponas, batá, congas), LABJACD traverse a multitude of styles from straightforward hip hop to Latino-infused funk and Andean-influenced salsa and cumbia. Think Ozomatli colliding with the Hilltop Hoods and some talented South American buskers and you’d be close.

A product of John Butler’s JB Seed program, LABJACD have effectively leveraged off their debut album – the critically acclaimed ‘Vote With Your Feet’ – and developed a loyal following around the country built on their energetic and inclusive live shows. ‘Words Out’, the group’s sophomore album, shows the benefits obtained from their extensive touring schedule, and also indicates a greater depth of maturity and musicianship. Tracks such as ‘La Policia’ and ‘Lies of the Wicked’ demonstrate a heightened sense of political awareness. Importantly, though, the group don’t let their strong political views overshadow the sheer excitement and energy created by their music. ‘Whether You’re Right’, the obvious choice as the first single, is perhaps the best example of this. Created from a funky baritone sax initially busted out at a live gig in Perth, the lyrics reflect a tongue in cheek take on the karmic universe, but it is the driving saxophone, deft guitar work, powerful drumming and well-chosen samples which make the song a standout.

With any group the size of the LABJACD ensemble the quality of production and the recording process is critical. Achieving an appropriate aural balance between different instruments is often considerably more difficult. Frequently it is difficult for bands like LABJACD to recreate the intensity of their live sound in the studio. Fortunately the quality of the sound on ‘Words Out’ is impeccable. From the album’s rambunctious opening track ‘Para el Pueblo’ (featuring an expanded fifteen piece band recorded in a single room), to the charango strumming featured on ‘Ojos Azules’, the sound is big and bold but also crisp and crystal-clear. All in all, ‘Words Out’ is a sophisticated follow-up to ‘Vote With Your Feet’ and an album which captures a talented and diverse ensemble at their energetic best.