Few artists have been as closely associated with the evolution of Acid Jazz as Incognito. Emerging from the vibrant British jazz-funk scene of the 1980s, the group built an international following by bringing together Soul, Jazz, Funk and R&B without being confined by the boundaries of any single genre.
At the heart of that story is Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick, Incognito’s co-founder, guitarist, composer and creative force. His approach to music has remained remarkably consistent: embrace different influences, keep the groove at the center and allow the songs to evolve naturally.
That philosophy continues beyond Incognito. Bluey is now preparing a new solo album, a project that reflects both his musical journey and his desire to keep creating and connecting with listeners.
A new song with an old-school groove
The latest preview is “Skint”, released through Splash Blue and produced with the assistance of Incognito collaborators Dominic “Ski” Oakenfull and Mo Hausler, whose credits also include work with artists such as Chaka Khan.
The track is part of a double-sided single that also features “Life Is A Dance” and offers a glimpse into the direction of Bluey’s forthcoming full-length project.
“Skint” immediately taps into the rhythmic language that has long been central to the Incognito sound. Funk-driven bass lines, tight grooves and a strong Soul influence give the track a distinctly familiar character, while the production keeps it connected to the contemporary scene.
The lyrics take a personal approach, reflecting on difficult moments, perseverance and the value of finding something precious when life becomes complicated. At its core, the song is a celebration of love and the people who remain important through the highs and lows.
Bluey keeps the music moving forward
What makes “Skint” particularly interesting is the balance between familiarity and renewal. The track recalls the classic Incognito aesthetic without simply attempting to recreate the past.
Bluey and his co-producers build the arrangement around groove and atmosphere, allowing the rhythm to carry the song while the vocal performance delivers its message with an understated, personal quality.
For longtime Incognito listeners, there are plenty of recognizable elements: the sophisticated Funk, the Soul sensibility and the unmistakable connection between Jazz and groove that has been part of Bluey’s musical identity for decades.
But “Skint” also belongs to the present. It represents another step in an ongoing creative journey for an artist who continues to explore new music while remaining connected to the sound that established his reputation.
Hear “Skint” in full on Smooth Jazz Discover #285
Listeners can hear “Skint” in full on Smooth Jazz Discover #285, the latest edition of the program directed by Santiago Fontenla.
The show features a selection of 15 contemporary tracks spanning Smooth Jazz, Soul, Funk and Groove, and is currently broadcast across 75 radio stations, bringing new music from the international scene to audiences in Spain, Latin America, the United States and beyond.
For anyone interested in discovering where contemporary Smooth Jazz and its surrounding genres are heading, Smooth Jazz Discover #285 offers the complete listening experience — including Bluey’s “Skint.”
Bluey – “Skint”
Featured on Smooth Jazz Discover #285
Directed by Santiago Fontenla | Broadcast on 75 radio stations
