Anna Butterss – Mighty Vertebrate (Green Vinyl)

Released on October 4, 2024, Mighty Vertebrate marks Australian-born bassist and composer Anna Butterss's debut as a lead artist on the International Anthem label. Known for her collaborations with artists like Makaya McCraven, Phoebe Bridgers, and Jeff Parker, Butterss steps into the spotlight with a genre-defying album that blends jazz, indie, electronic, and experimental sounds. The album features contributions from saxophonist Josh Johnson, guitarist Gregory Uhlmann, drummer Ben Lumsdaine, and a guest appearance by Jeff Parker on the track "Dance Steve" .

Critics have praised Mighty Vertebrate for its inventive compositions and Butterss's ability to transcend traditional genre boundaries. The album showcases her versatility, not only on bass but also on flute, synths, and drum machine, creating a dynamic and playful soundscape. Tracks like "Shorn" and "Breadrich" highlight her skill in crafting intricate arrangements that are both cerebral and groovy .

Reviews

"Mighty Vertebrate is a striking album that defies easy categorization, blending jazz, indie, and experimental music into a cohesive and imaginative body of work." — Glide Magazine

"Mighty Vertebrate is a dynamic and playful album, integrating genres seamlessly." — The Guardian