The inventive drummer/producer Stix Bones - who worked with the likes of R&B Legends Ashford & Simpson and Hip Hop pioneers Talib Kweli, Common, and DJ Maseo (De La Soul) - releases his EP, Olimpik Soul; his amazing 21st century amalgamation of jazz and elements of hip-hop series. Backed by his ensemble known as The BONE Squad (an acronym for Brothers of Noble Excellence) the EP showcases Bob Beamon: the 77year-old Olympic long jump champion, who in 1968 in Mexico City, leaped to the still-standing Olympic record of 29 ft. 2 ¼ inches, in his recording debut as a percussionist.
 
Beamon’s percussive percolations accent Bones’ infectious moods and grooves, especially on the two singles “Leap,” and the mellow, midtempo “Be Thankful,” Bones’ reimagination make of William DeVaughan’s 1974 Soul hit, “Be Thankful for What You’ve Got,” lyrically laced by Khadejia Bass’ lovely vocals. 
 
Abiodun Oyewole of The Last Poets, a childhood friend of Beamon’s who previously worked with Bones, delivers a stunning spoken word performance on “Price of Freedom.” The remaining selections, including the title track, “Olimpik Soul”, “My Lady,” “Funkatonic,” “Monday Madness” and “Dreams Come True,” dance and trance with Afro-Latin rhythms, funky beats, driving horn lines and smooth jazz tenor sax and keyboard solos.