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:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 06/2005

    MeShell Ndegeocello
    The Spirit Music Jamia: Dance of the Infidel

  • reviewed 05/2006

    Various Artists
    ReBop: The Savoy Remixes

  • reviewed 02/2008

    THE MATT SAVAGE TRIO
    Hot Ticket

  • reviewed 05/2008

    The End of Times Orchestra
    Meets Eno Diamond

  • reviewed 07/2007

    BILLIE HOLIDAY
    Remixed & Reimagined

  • reviewed 08/2004

    The Motet
    Music for Life

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.