This track has evolved into an anthem for composer and guitarist Ari Joshua, who has performed and recorded it with over a dozen lineups. The latest version offers a stripped-down, boogaloo organ trio setup, featuring the talented Skerik on saxophone, Delvon Lamarr on Hammond organ, and Grant Schroff on drums. This iteration contrasts with the psychedelic, version released by Ari’s RAaR Trio.
The track opens with a stereophonic gaze, carefully sculpted by engineer and Polyrhythmics bass player Jason Gray. Starting with the celebrated capture of all sounds by Mell Dettmer, “The Clinic” moves through a delightful mix of old-school rawness and honesty, enhanced by layers of drenched, wet analog outboard gear. Classic reverb tanks and vintage real tape delays give the track a unique dichotomy—head in the clouds, feet on the earth—that is quickly becoming part of Ari Joshua’s signature sound.
Musically, “The Clinic” bridges classic and modern influences. The chord cycle is centered around a ‘Hendrix Sharp 9’ sound while navigating tritone substitutions, landing on sequences of tritones and dissonances that create harmonic tension and release. The ability of all the players involved to capture this complex arrangement in one seamless take is a testament to their collective mastery. As the track progresses, Lamarr, Skerik, and Joshua craft fluid and soulful phrases, skillfully balancing loopable grooves with an appreciation for the bebop and boogaloo traditions that inspired the track’s creation. Their interplay respects the roots of these genres while pushing forward into improvisational freedom.
Ari Joshua’s guitar leads with tight, expressive playing, while Skerik’s saxophone injects bold, colorful improvisation. Delvon Lamarr’s gritty organ lines blend effortlessly with Grant Schroff’s infectious drumming, anchoring the groove and inviting listeners to lose themselves in the music.
“The Clinic” has been a recurring favorite in Joshua’s live performances, evolving with each lineup that performs it. Whether it’s the lush, cinematic sound of the RAaR Trio or the more stripped-back, traditional approach heard here, the track has shown remarkable versatility, appealing to diverse audiences across various musical settings.
Engineered by Mell Dettmer and Jason Gray, and mastered by Doug Krebs, the single carries the rich, textured production values that fans of Music Factory Records have come to expect. Visuals are once again provided by Deep Groove Designs, offering artwork that reflects the track’s evolving and vibrant nature.
Credits:
Ari Joshua – Guitar
Skerik – Saxophone
Delvon Lamarr – Keyboards
Grant Schroff – Drums
Tracking Engineer – Mell Dettmer, Studio Soli
Overdub Engineer – Jason Gray, Blue Mallard Recording
Mixing Engineer – Jason Gray, Blue Mallard Recording
Mastering Engineer – Doug Krebs, Doug Krebs Mastering
Links:
Official Website:https://www.arijoshua.com
Bandcamp:https://arijoshua.bandcamp.com
Ari Joshua Music Pages:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arijoshua
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arijoshualovesyou
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/arieljoshua
Music Factory Records:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themusicfactorylabel/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themusicfactorylabel/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@themusicfactorylabel
