Kenny Beats has been remarkably prolific this year, contributing his signature production style to projects by Thundercat, Fcukers, and upcoming releases from Weezer and Show Me The Body. Now, the producer is stepping into a new role as the frontman of a collaborative project titled Fathers.

The collective brings together a formidable group of musicians, including keyboardist Kiefer, bassist CARRTOONS, and drummer Nate Smith. Each member brings a deep background in jazz and extensive production experience. The ensemble boasts an impressive pedigree: Kiefer has worked closely with Terrace Martin and Anderson .Paak; CARRTOONS has contributed to records for George Clinton, Freddie Gibbs, and Usher; and Smith’s resume includes collaborations with Michael Jackson, Brittany Howard, and Childish Gambino.

The group’s self-titled debut album is set for release next month via Blue Note. The project was recorded at Kenny Beats’ own Putnam Hill studio in Los Angeles. Reflecting on the spontaneous nature of the sessions, the producer noted, “I was 95 percent through building my studio, and I asked Kiefer if he could come by with a band and play some instruments. We custom-built our recording console and hadn’t heard anything through it yet. So it was meant to be a test day to make sure the studio was up and running.”

The resulting sessions were remarkably efficient. “Kiefer happened to be playing shows with Ben and Nate at the time, and in testing out the equipment we recorded these songs in 48 hours. Turns out the board works just fine,” he added.

The upcoming LP also features a variety of guest contributors, including saxophonist Nicole McCabe, vocalist Genevieve Artadi of KNOWER, guitarist Paul Castelluzzo of HETHER, and string arrangements by Yasmeen Al-Mazeedi. You can listen to the lead single, “Pearl,” below.

Fathers is scheduled for release on July 10 via Blue Note.