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 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.