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Some songs demand attention; others offer an invitation, “Reversible Submersible” by Ari Joshua does both. It doesn’t arrive with a bang—it rises slowly, like a tide, pulling the listener into its mysterious depth. This latest single brings back the celebrated trio of John Medeski, Billy Martin, and Jason Fraticelli, whose chemistry feels less like collaboration and more like alchemy.
Where “Blurry Face” captured the urgency of a live, one-take session, “Reversible Submersible” is more deliberate—carefully built in the studio, sculpted through analog gear, and mastered with precision by Joe Lambert. The result is not just a recording—it’s a world. And it breathes.
Joshua’s guitar plays the role of a quiet narrator. It doesn’t shout. It murmurs. Fuzzy and restless, it wanders through Medeski’s swirling organ lines and clavinet jabs, always searching but never lost. Martin’s drumming answers with tension and release—constantly shifting, always grounded. Meanwhile, Fraticelli’s bass locks the piece together, not just rhythmically but emotionally.
There’s no need for lyrics here. The instruments speak volumes. At one moment, Medeski jabs sharply on the clavinet; in the next, he floods the track with organ textures that feel almost submerged in emotion. Fraticelli’s bass does more than support—it glides underneath like a tide, occasionally rising to push the trio forward.
Culturally, this release feels like a reunion of minds unwilling to compromise. In an era of formulaic pop, this piece rebels. It demands patience and rewards curiosity. For followers of Khruangbin or The Comet Is Coming, it’s a natural next step.
Does it work out? Absolutely. “Reversible Submersible” is not background music—it’s a focused listen. It invites repeat visits, not for comfort but discovery. And in that, Ari Joshua proves once again that collaboration still has the power to surprise, delight, and challenge.
Catch Ari on tour with his band The All’s Eye this June/July in the Pacific Northwest:
June 26 The Seamonster Seattle
June 27 The Shakedown Bellingham
June 29 Harstine Hoopla Festival
June 30 The Spanish Ballroom Tacoma
July 1 Eagles Club Olympia
July 2 The Get Down Portland
