The Sure Fire Soul Ensemble - Gemini

In Latin, Gemini means “two together” or “twins.” Astrologically, the sign is known for curiosity and versatility—qualities that also define San Diego’s nine-piece instrumental force, The Sure Fire Soul Ensemble. For over a decade, they’ve built their sound on the seamless fusion of jazz and funk, creating what they aptly call “introspective party music.” On their latest LP for Colemine Records, Gemini, they stretch that formula further than ever before.

Recorded between late 2021 and early 2024 at The Kitchen II in Lemon Grove, California, Gemini sees SFSE deepening their palette. Tracks like “Makin’ Moves,” “The Grifter,” and “Don’t Trip” keep their signature breakbeat funk front and centre, while new influences—library music from labels like KPM, spiritual jazz from Tribe and Black Jazz Records, and the vibey atmospheres of Cal Tjader and Dorothy Ashby—float into the mix.

The album leans harder into mood and introspection, particularly on tracks like “Mother Earth,” “Freddie,” and the title track, which nod to the cosmic stylings of Freddie Hubbard, Phil Ranelin, Wendell Harrison, and Cannonball Adderley’s Soul Zodiac era. “Corporatocracy” even features a tabla solo that drifts meditatively before landing in a tight, modal groove.

The band’s current lineup—Tim Felten (keys), Jake Najor (drums), Omar Lopez (bass), Kiko Cornejo Jr. (congas), Aquiles “Lito” Magana (guitar), Wili Fleming (trombone), Sheryll Felten (percussion), Jesse Audelo and Travis Klein (sax & flute)—bring rich texture and deep interplay to every cut.

Gemini is SFSE’s most expansive and adventurous work to date. Still rooted in rhythm and groove, the album opens up space for reflection and exploration—proof that evolution and the funk can absolutely coexist.