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 04/2014
SEAN SULLIVAN
Hereafter
reviewed 05/2012
LENNY MARCUS TRIO
Sun Ray - A Tribute to Ray Bryant
reviewed 07/2004
River Rogues Jazz Band
From Fats to Satch
reviewed 12/2006
RACHEL ZAMSTEEN
Bouquet
reviewed 07/2004
Various Artists
Upstairs at Larry's: Lawrence Welk Uncorked
reviewed 03/2012
ADAM KROMELOW TRIO
Youngblood

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.