El Michels Affair – 24 Hr Sports

Leon Michels returns to his El Michels Affair moniker with 24 Hr Sports, an ambitious album inspired by 1980s and ’90s Sports Illustrated design, MF DOOM’s Special Herbs series, vintage sample sources and gospel music. Following his acclaimed production work with artists including Norah Jones, Clairo and Kali Uchis, Michels expands the cinematic soul and funk of El Michels Affair with a diverse roster of international vocal collaborators.

The album moves effortlessly between styles, from the marching-band drums and thunderous brass of “Drum Line” to Brazilian artist Rogê on the energetic “Mágica” and Ghanaian vocalist Florence Adooni on the infectious “Say Goodbye”. Clairo brings a delicate touch to “Anticipate”, while Shintaro Sakamoto appears on the effortlessly stylish “Indifference” and Norah Jones reunites with Michels for “Carry Me Away”. Elsewhere, The Suginami Children’s Choir, Dave Guy and the Fabulous Rainbow Singers add further depth and character.

Blending psychedelic soul, funk, gospel, jazz and cinematic instrumentation, 24 Hr Sports showcases Michels’ exceptional production and arrangement skills while pushing El Michels Affair into expansive new territory.