Featured Artist - Good Information

Edmonton-based trio, Good Information, lays down an indisputably hip-hop sound while maintaining the traditional elements of small-group jazz. Calling upon neo-soul harmony and math-rock’s dizzying time signatures, their unique brand of “jazz with a beat-aesthetic” shines through interplay woven over minimalist structures; one moment they’re a groove-making machine, the next, a blur of collective improvisation. The band prides themselves on each performance being unique. As they lean into the unpredictability of jazz, leaving room for the music to bend and take shape in the moment as they react to one another. Follow Good Information on instagram.

Good information has become a significant part of the Edmonton music community through their distinct residencies. Most significantly, their “REJAZZ” series, which features the music of popular hip-hop artists arranged for their jazz context. So far they've covered Kendrick Lamar, Tyler The Creator, A Tribe Called Quest, Frank Ocean, Kanye West’s music arranged for the band + string quartet and most recently Childish Gambino. Each happens for one night only. Alongside local rappers appearing as guests, they never fail to fill the house. Good Information's long-awaited debut album will be released in summer 2024, with lead singles set for release through the front half of the year.

1. What is the coolest show you have ever played? 

All: Our Tyler the Creator REJAZZ show!

Biboye (drums): This was our last show before heading out on a short hiatus studying in Europe. The support of a full room felt like the perfect send-off to inspire us to write more music while abroad. The crowd felt just as locked-in to the music as we did. They knew when to sing along, and when to let the music ride out. Some of our favourite rappers in the city joined us to freestyle over a couple tunes. The windows fogged up - it was unforgettable.

Connell (guitar): This show was just a good vibe all around. The show sold out and people were lining up around the block to get in. Tyler the Creator had just released his album IGOR, so the songs were very fresh in people's memory.

Lukas (bass): At this point I had only been playing with the band for about a year, and we hadn't done any shows this big in that time. I had no idea what to expect but the energy in the room was electric and everyone was having a good time. It was the first gig I ever played with that kind of energy and it was an amazing feeling.

2. How do you keep yourself healthy and happy working in music?

B: I go to concerts, listen to records, go deep down YouTube rabbit-holes looking for live concert footage and put on my 'fan' hat. That never fails to put a smile on my face. I'm inspired by so many artists across genres - local and around the globe. As for health . . . still figuring that out! I'm trying to remember to keep my plate to 80% capacity instead of the 110% I often find myself in. (I am happy crating music!)

C: Taking breaks is key for me to stay happy and healthy while creating music. The time you take away both mentally and physically can breathe new life into the work that you create.

L: I find it really important to have other non-music things on the goo that I'm excited about. that, taking breaks and getting enough sleep.

3. What is the biggest challenge you've experienced in getting to where you are?

Pivoting from being so focused on live shows, to recording. For years, all we cared about was providing folks in our local community with incredible live music experiences. So when the pandemic arrived and that wasn't an option, we finally bit the bullet and released some recordings. It's taken some time to find our 'recorded' sound - but now that our album is complete, we're looking forward to sharing it with a broader audience in 2024.

4. What is the best part of your life that isn't music related?

B: Being able to cross the street and shoot hoops year-round! (when his Achille's isn't torn in 2)

C: When I walk down thee street and see a well-designed awning, or a high quality staircase. To purchase your own - go to spindlefactory.com

L: Waking up everyday and making 10 pounds of yoghurt. (can you tell we wrote these for each other?)

5. What is the best advice you have been given in the music business?

Focus on the people! and Take care of The Music, and The Music will take care of you.