Synthonic is the brainchild of Kieron Garrett, a gifted pianist and composer whose musical journey reflects a profound transformation from classical roots to modern funk mastery. Hailing from Sidmouth, England, Garrett’s artistry is grounded in rigorous early training, having studied piano and tuba from the age of seven, later honing his skills at Kingston University. He spent formative years performing in orchestras and ensembles, experiences that shaped his disciplined and versatile musical approach.
Garrett’s pivot toward jazz in his twenties marked a new era of exploration and expression, most notably through the formation of the Kieron Garrett Quartet (KGQ), which featured acclaimed saxophonist Dave O’Higgins. With performances at prestigious venues like Ronnie Scott’s, 606 Club, and the EFG London Jazz Festival, Garrett earned a reputation for excellence on the UK jazz circuit. In 2018, he launched Synthonic, an outlet where he fuses funk, jazz, electronic elements, and sophisticated composition into an electrifying and forward-thinking project. Since then, Synthonic has earned international attention, landing label deals with Germany’s Supertunes and the NightOwl Collective in the USA.
Released on May 23rd, 2025, “Lampin’” is Synthonic’s latest instrumental album and perhaps the project’s most cohesive and compelling work to date. Crafted entirely in Garrett’s home studio, the album is a time capsule and a step forward, a funky, laid-back celebration of groove rooted in 90s Acid Jazz but pushed forward with contemporary production sensibilities. The title “Lampin’”, slang for “chillin’”, perfectly encapsulates the record’s atmosphere. This is a collection of tracks that doesn’t rush or show off unnecessarily, even though its technical brilliance is unmistakable. Instead, Synthonic chooses to luxuriate in feel and texture. The album’s grooves unfold like conversations among friends, casual yet rich with nuance.
Lampin’ Album Track List:
All Day, Every Day:
Opening Synthonic’s “Lampin’” with undeniable flair, “All Day, Every Day” wastes no time establishing the album’s vibrant identity. From the first few bars, the track radiates a bright, breezy atmosphere that blends soulful synths with a tight jazz-funk groove. There’s an immediate sense of ease and musical maturity as the rhythm section locks into a smooth, mid-tempo pocket, while layers of sonic texture begin to unfold. It’s a welcoming sound, inviting, melodic, and grounded in warmth that effortlessly sets the tone for what’s to come.
At the heart of the track lies a masterful balance between complexity and accessibility. Garrett’s classical and jazz background is clearly on display here, particularly in the carefully constructed horn arrangements. The 3- and 4-part harmonies, which took a considerable amount of time to write, add a rich, technical depth without overwhelming the relaxed groove. The horns don’t just add color, they shape the track’s identity, weaving through the rhythm section with precision and finesse. The result is a cohesive sound that’s as intellectually satisfying as it is emotionally uplifting.
“All Day, Every Day” holds a special place on “Lampin’”, and rightfully so, it encapsulates everything that makes Synthonic’s sound so compelling. There’s a laid-back, feel-good vibe, yes, but it’s underscored by sophisticated musicianship and a thoughtful arrangement that rewards repeated listening. It’s the kind of opener that not only draws you in but sets a high bar for the rest of the album, serving as both a mission statement and a groove-laden invitation to keep listening.
Big Fat Funk:
“Big Fat Funk” bursts onto the scene with a jolt of adrenaline, delivering one of the most electrifying moments on “Lampin’”. From the opening bars, the track makes its intentions clear, this is not a tune for sitting still. Screaming guitar riffs and blasting horns ignite the airwaves, immediately setting a tone of urgency and celebration. It’s a track that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go, showcasing Synthonic’s ability to push their jazz-funk fusion into bold, unapologetic territory.
The instrumentation is both muscular and meticulously arranged. The guitar and horn sections engage in a thrilling musical duel, trading lines with playful aggression and virtuosity. The rhythm section acts as the unshakeable foundation beneath it all, driving the groove forward with precision and force. Despite the track’s intense energy, it remains impressively cohesive, each element complements the others, creating a tightly-woven tapestry of funk, jazz, and controlled chaos. The production manages to harness the track’s explosive power without sacrificing clarity or balance.
What makes “Big Fat Funk” stand out is its sense of spontaneity and raw, unfiltered joy. It feels like a jam session that exploded into something larger, a controlled detonation of rhythm and sound. The unrelenting pace and spirited interplay make it a definitive dancefloor number, contrasting beautifully with some of the more relaxed moments on the album. It’s a bold statement that encapsulates the unbridled energy at the core of Synthonic’s style, reminding listeners that funk isn’t just a vibe, it’s a force.
Lampin’:
As the title track of Synthonic’s “Lampin’”, “Lampin’” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the entire project, a relaxed yet musically rich journey that blends effortless groove with technical finesse. From the first note, the track settles into a mid-tempo rhythm anchored by a rock-steady drum beat and a rolling electric piano riff that immediately evokes warmth and ease. It’s a track that invites the listener to sink in and stay awhile, setting a chill yet sophisticated tone that reflects the album’s overarching vibe.
The arrangement is a masterclass in balance. Vasilis Xenopoulos’ tenor saxophone solo adds a smoky, full-bodied depth that draws from jazz tradition, while Kieron Garrett’s playful synth solo dances lightly over the groove, injecting a modern, almost whimsical energy. Together, these elements blend seamlessly with the tight horn arrangements and steady rhythm section, creating a sound that is both smooth and intricately layered. There’s a clarity in the production that allows each instrument to breathe while still contributing to the track’s overall cohesion and infectious flow.
“Lampin’” stands as a centerpiece not just in name but in feel, embodying the relaxed funk that defines the album without ever becoming static. It walks the line between chill and dynamic with remarkable ease, showcasing Synthonic’s strength in crafting music that is both emotionally engaging and technically polished. This track is the album’s mission statement: a groove-driven escape into a world of laid-back elegance, where every note is carefully placed yet feels completely free.
Spiral:
“Spiral” stands out as one of the most electrifying moments on “Lampin’”, delivering a whirlwind of jazz-funk energy that’s as relentless as it is refined. The track kicks off with a rumbling synth bass line and rattling conga samples, immediately setting a frenetic tone. A driving sampled drum beat locks in the groove, creating a propulsive foundation that’s impossible to ignore. This intro doesn’t just grab attention, it demands it, ushering listeners into a soundscape where raw energy meets sophisticated arrangement.
The instrumentation on “Spiral” is a vibrant fusion of electronic and organic textures, with Synthonic expertly balancing these elements to create something both forward-thinking and deeply rooted in funk tradition. Searing guitar solos soar over layers of synth lines and tight horn sections, each voice pushing and pulling the momentum in thrilling directions. What makes the track especially compelling is how seamlessly it blends its complexity, nothing feels overdone, and yet every section adds a new dimension to the overall sound. The dynamic interplay between the instruments gives the track a sense of spontaneity and Creative freedom, while still maintaining a clear structural cohesion.
What’s particularly striking about “Spiral” is how it reflects Kieron Garrett’s growth as a composer and producer. This track shows how much his artistic vision has evolved. The refined arrangement, expanded instrumentation, and heightened energy all speak to a deeper command of his craft. “Spiral” is not just a reimagined track, it’s a statement of progression, a celebration of how far Synthonic has come, and a glimpse into the limitless possibilities of their sound.
Synthonic enlists an impressive roster of collaborators, including Vasilis Xenopoulos, Jack Birchwood, Valere Speranza, and Jeremy Dunning. Each brings a distinct flavor, contributing horns, keys, and rhythms that elevate the tracks with effortless chemistry. The use of live instruments especially horns and guitars, interwoven with VSTs, samples, and synths results in a layered soundscape that feels both organic and polished. “Lampin’” doesn’t merely reference the past, it reinterprets it. There’s an unmistakable Acid Jazz undercurrent, but Garrett’s classical training and jazz background elevate the arrangements to something more intricate and thoughtful. Harmonies are lush, beats are tight yet unforced, and transitions glide smoothly from track to track, forming a cohesive narrative arc.
What’s remarkable is how “Lampin’” maintains its relaxed energy while still offering moments of brilliance and surprise. Some tracks have been gestating for up to four years, others born in more recent bursts of inspiration, but all of them come together seamlessly. The pacing is deliberate, the energy modulated with care, resulting in a record that invites repeat listens, each spin revealing another subtle touch or musical conversation previously missed. In sum, “Lampin’” is a testament to Garrett’s evolving artistry: a funk-laced, jazz-infused instrumental record that’s as refined as it is relaxed. It’s the kind of album that fills a room with style, warmth, and class, a sophisticated chill session for lovers of groove, harmony, and timeless vibes. Go ahead and press play. You’re going to want to lamp to this.
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