Album Reviews

SOMI

If the Rains Come First

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-Afrobeat

Quick Links:

all reviews | all jazz reviews

More reviews tagged #Jazz

reviewed 02/2014
MATT RENZI
Rise and Shine
reviewed 10/2003
Kurt Rosenwinkel
Heartcore
reviewed 04/2008
CONNIE EVINGSON WITH DAVE FRISHBERG
Little Did I Dream
reviewed 03/2017
Manuel Valera Trio
The Seasons
reviewed 04/2006
Joris Teepe's Gronigan Art Ensemble
Jazz In Jazz Out
reviewed 04/2007
Steppin’ In It with Rachael Davis
Shout Sister Shout

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.