"Long To Be" sees AJ Hamilton take jazz house in a more upbeat direction than usual - and I love how he keeps that nostalgic feel running through it.
My introduction to AJ Hamilton came in 2023 with his debut EP, and the track "Equilibrium" left a lasting impression from the very first listen. Two years later, it's beautiful to see him make his Stereofox debut with a listening experience that is tender as it is groovy. The glistening keys that brighten up "Long To Be" offer a dreamy touch, while the vocals floating in the foreground are quite reminiscent of jazz in the 1940s. Trumpet embellishments certainly add to this sentiment, while the upbeat rhythm section gives the experience a more modern appeal.
"This track is the first jazz house song I have made with vocals in it and it reminds me of home in Spain. Even though the lyrics are romantic describing a longing to be in the arms of someone, to me it represents the longing to be back home while living in London" - AJ Hamilton