Ambrose Akinmusire’s honey from a winter stone is a self-portrait of struggle on which he continues to honor Black innovation while refusing to be confined by tradition.
Ambrose Akinmusire has never been one to play it safe, and on honey from a winter stone the composer and trumpeter once again pushes the limits of several genres into deeply personal music. Described by Akinmusire as a “self-portrait,” the album explores themes of colorism, erasure, and the complexities of navigating identity as a Black man, all while paying homage to the pioneering work of composer Julius Eastman.
The album’s lineup reads like a cross-genre dream team, featuring improvisational vocalist Kokayi, pianist Sam Harris, synthesizer artist Chiquitamagic, drummer Justin Brown, and the Mivos Quartet. Together, they’ve come up with something that feels both intimate and expansive, reflecting the emotional weight behind Akinmusire’s compositions. Tracks like “muffled screams” explore harrowing personal experiences, with Kokayi improvising lyrics inspired by stories Akinmusire shared. “He’s not just a rapper,” Akinmusire says. “He’s an instrument, interacting with rhythm and harmony in ways that make each performance unique.”
This deep collaboration underscores Akinmusire’s ongoing quest to challenge conventions. Throughout his career, he’s balanced on the edge of jazz, drawing from classical, hip-hop, and other forms to create works that are as poetic as they are provocative. His unorthodox approach has earned him accolades from the likes of the Doris Duke Foundation and the Kennedy Center, but his true aim has always been higher - dismantling barriers, telling stories of his community, and creating music that records the current moment while reshaping the future.
“I’ve learned to accept the consequences of believing in invention and creativity,” Akinmusire reflects. “You’re gonna be misunderstood. But my blinders have gotten thicker over the years.” That dedication shines through on honey from a winter stone. As he builds on the momentum of his Grammy-nominated Owl Song and Beauty Is Enough, Ambrose Akinmusire remains a vital force in contemporary music with a new album overflowing with passion and imagination. It really is a must-listen for anyone seeking music that challenges as much as it inspires.