CD Review: Elikeh's 'Between 2 Worlds'

Elikeh
Between 2 Worlds
Azalea City Recordings

Between 2 Worlds is a funkified journey into the world of reggae, funk, afro-pop, and blues with heavy African connections, as well as American funk and blues. The opener, "No Vision," contains a little reggae, but flies high with funk beats and English vocals. The reverberating horns and driving rhythms are prevalent on "Know Who You Are," Vieux Farka Toure's guitar hero on "Alonye," as well as "Olesafrica," featuring Ojah Awake. The entire project is upbeat, rich with African nostalgia, and funkadelic beats with driving horns and soukous-like guitar stylings. Anyone with an interest in Afro-funk, afro-jazz, and contemporary African music in general will love their music. This is also an excellent fusion of sort between North American rock and funk with Africa's indigenous rhythms and melodies. The result is an outstanding product of musical achievement. ~ Matthew Forss