Guru - Jazzmatazz Volume II - The New Reality (1995)

Jazzmatazz Volume II – The New Reality (1995) by Guru is the second installment in the influential Jazzmatazz series, a project that helped redefine the relationship between hip-hop and jazz. Following the success of the first volume, Guru expanded the concept by bringing together respected jazz musicians, soul singers, and hip-hop artists to create a sophisticated fusion of live instrumentation and rap lyricism.

The album features rich arrangements built around smooth basslines, live drums, horns, and keyboards, creating a warm and organic sound that sets it apart from many hip-hop releases of the mid-1990s. Guru’s calm, rhythmic vocal delivery provides thoughtful commentary on social awareness, personal integrity, and the cultural evolution of hip-hop.

Collaborations with well-known artists add variety and depth to the album, blending soulful vocals and jazz improvisation with contemporary rap production. Jazzmatazz Volume II – The New Reality stands as an important example of genre-blending creativity, highlighting Guru’s vision of connecting hip-hop with the improvisational spirit and musical richness of jazz.

Tracklist

01. Intro (Light It Up) - Jazzalude I - New Reality Style[1:44]
02. Lifesaver[4:13]
03. Living In This World[4:29]
04. Looking Through Darkness[4:48]
05. Skit A (Interview) - Watch What You Say[5:03]
06. Jazzalude II - Defining Purpose[1:02]
07. For You[4:01]
08. Insert A (Mental Relaxation) - Medicine[4:20]
09. Lost Souls[4:12]
10. Indert B (The Real Deal) - Nobody Knows[3:58]
11. Jazzalude III - Hip Hop As A Way Of Life[1:17]
12. Respect The Architect[4:51]
13. Feel The Music[3:58]
14. Young Ladies[4:12]
15. The Traveler[4:01]
16. Jazzalude IV - Maintaining Focus[1:18]
17. Count Your Blessings[3:32]
18. Choice Of Weapons[4:24]
19. Something In The Past[3:19]
20. Skit B (Alot On My Mind) - Revelation[4:36]