2009-12-18
Ugandan jazz vocalist Somi enlists other African musicians (including famous South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela) to develop a set of jazz-meets-African rhythms that at times brings memories of Paul Simon's "Rhythm of the Saints" or the releases by songstress Sade. Great phrasing, lyrics (bith Ugandan and English) evoking scenes from Africa, yet messages that connect to life here in these United States. "Hot Blue" gets things started in a sultry manner; "Prayer to the Saint" and "Kuzunguka" provide the most upbeat of the tempos. Inventive merger of jazz and world from a young talent. Michael J. 12/09 J-AfrobeatKURT ELLING
Nightmoves
Various Artists
Upstairs at Larry's: Lawrence Welk Uncorked
Sidney Jacobs
First Man
JEFF LORBER FUSION
Galaxy
HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN
Four Dead Batteries - Original Soundtrack
JOHN PATTON
Soul Connection
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