CD Review: Ozere's 'Anyplace'

Ozere
Finding Anyplace
Self-Release

The Canadian folk-roots-group, Ozere, tackles beautiful melodies, breezy rhythms, and rootsy vocals with engaging instrumentals mixed in for added pleasure on their latest release, Finding Anyplace. This is mostly an original effort with only two songs attributed to other artists, such as "Wayfaring Stranger" and "MacArthur Road." The instrumental gem on the album, "Anyplace," weaves a tapestry of sonic sounds ranging from Celtic to Nordic and even the Middle East in a seamless fashion. However, the vocals are great on "Keeper" and "Someday Soon." Ozere does not fit into a specific genre very well, but anyone with a passion for folk, roots, neo-classical, new age, and world fusion will find love at first note with this one. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Patricia Vonne's 'Viva Bandolera'

Patricia Vonne
Viva Bandolera
Bandolera Records

Patricia Vonne's emotive Latin folk and rock music takes on new heights with soaring vocals, multi-instrumental repertoires, and a pop-edge cement the deal with Viva Bandolera. Patricia's vocals are a blend of Lila Downs and Shakira throughout. The song structures are more varied than Shakira, but rooted in the Tejano, Latin-American rock and folk of Mexico's Lila Downs. Seventeen tracks in all. Patricia brings more than basic Tex-Mex fanfare here. In fact, there are swirling melodies and rhythms with passionate and evocative vocals representing a deep, Latin-American connection, as well as American pop and rock constructions. The Spanish songs are back by great instrumentation and arrangements that do not disappoint. Get it today! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Foam Ropes' Self-Titled Release

Foam Ropes
Foam Ropes
7 Trick Pony Records

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New Yorker, Derek Nicoletto, formed Foam Ropes after years of studying acting. The self-titled release showcases a variety of alt-rock, pop, grunge, and indie song styles that are sure to stir the soul and move the body (all in positive ways). "Potion Me Well" contains edgy rock guitars, wild percussion, and loud vocals that echo the musical angst of American contemporary rock from the 1980's and early '90's. "Truth In Fables" is more of a rock ballad with some classic vocals in the vein of New Jersey-band, Every Damn Day. The punchy guitars and slight neo-classical edge combine with great vocals for a truly unforgettable experience. "Birches" is more of a folk and roots-influenced tune with acoustic guitar, light percussion, and softer vocals. "Bad Apples" is a sauntering, down-tempo ballad that draws inspiration from the 1950's and '60's-era of American classics. However, the entire album contains original songs. Overall, the songs display a good mix of talent, song styles, and catchy hooks that will keep everyone entertained. ~ 5 Stars (out of 5). Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Emma Donovan & The Putbacks' 'Dawn'

Emma Donovan & The Putbacks
Dawn
Hope Street Recordings

Australian vocalist, Emma Donovan, joins her rhythm section, The Pubacks, on her latest release of bluesy, jazzy, and funk-infused concoctions on Dawn. The opening song, Black Woman, is a punchy, funk-filled anthem that sounds like a classic American hit from the 1970's, but this is completely Australian and filled with innovative funk elements. The swaying melodies and vocals of "My Goodness" showcases Emma's talent. The musical abilities are boundless and timeless here. The entire album is full of funk, roots, and pop elements that are unforgettable and highly-recommended. Emma Donovan & The Putbacks are not something you want to 'put back' on the shelf. These musicians are not to be missed. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: EarthRise SoundSystem's 'Rock Beats Paper'

EarthRise SoundSystem
Rock Beats Paper
Yoga Organix

EarthRise SoundSystem is David Schommer and Derek Beres' brainchild that includes a slew of talented guest artists that know how to create percussive, urban, and dance grooves incorporating world melodies and sounds. You will hear the music of Srikala, Davi Vieira, Lucy Woodward, Camille Armstrong, Ramin Sakurai, Shahar Mintz, Marti Nikko, Dave Eggar, Go-Ray, Renata Youngblood, and many others. The upbeat tracks include Rhodes, tabla, horns, cello, violins, sitar, guitars, mandolin, kora, timbau, dulcimer, drums, electronic arrangements, and others. This is not a one-sided album with only one kind of musical beat. Moreover, there are South American, Caribbean, South Asian, and American influences throughout. This is a percussive dreamscape with engaging vocals and instrumentation. Anyone seeking a truly global musical concoction will find it here on Rock Beats Paper. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Ted Brown's 'An Unwide Road'

Ted Brown
An Unwide Road
Self-Release

New Zealand-native, Ted Brown, presents us with a country, alt-folk, and pop album that brings together a variety of influences on guitar, percussion, and strings. The candid vocals and witty lyrics are trademark folk compositions that are not steeped in traditional melodies and rhythms of Maori music. Instead, the recording is more akin to American folk music. Moreover, the vocals are in English and represent an earthy approach throughout the ten tracks. "Beginners Skin" opens with a few guitar chords and a pensive vocal medley. The song is rather laid-back and it does not vary too much. "Raining Roses" is a similar tune with a laid-back presence and emotive vocals that drift along. "Love Is.." is a poetic guitar tune with vocals akin to Paul Simon. The tune meanders along with light percussion and guitar accompaniment. "Blue And Grey" is another guitar tune with great vocals and a solitary guitar lead. There are back-up singers near the end of the song. Overall, Ted creates an engaging and thought-provoking album that does not disappoint. ~ Matthew Forss      

CD Review: Brian Larney's 'At The Starting Line'

Brian Larney
At The Starting Line
Nunya Records

Connecticut-based singer, guitarist, and composer, Brian Larney, takes the spotlight on At The Starting Line. The folk music-based material contains a bit of Southern rock, contemporary pop, and nostalgic Americana. The eleven song release contains catchy melodies and rhythmic textures that are pure pop gold. The pop/rock anthem, "Closed Door," is a perfect song with a little Southern rock influences and lush harmonies. "Solace" is a little classic ditty with jangly guitars and an uppity tune that is highly-reminiscent of the late-Owsley. "Never Argue With The Devil" opens with jingly guitar lines and soft vocals in the vein of Fountains Of Wayne and the late-Owsley. "You Me And Allison" is an upbeat, jingly, pop-focused tune with swishy percussion and full guitar sounds. The classic folk tunes are more rock-inspired than folk, but there is an element of nostalgia inherent in similar songs from America's folk explosion in 1960's and 70's. Still, Brian puts a more modern spin on the music with a little Southern rock and contemporary folk. Each song gives us something to remember and that is definitely a positive quality. ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Arlon Bennett's 'World Of Possibility'

Arlon Bennett
World Of Possibility
Self-Release

New York-native, Arlon Bennett is a songwriter, singer, and guitarist with a knack for classic Americana songs steeped in nostalgic settings and contemplative memories about life. Folk music is the primary genre showcased here. The vocals are a bit of James Taylor and the classic Americana songs of Fountains Of Wayne. The slight Paul Simon references are not too far from the truth throughout. "I America" is a harmonica-tinged and guitar-focused song with uppity choruses and harmonic backup vocals. Basically, it is America's soundtrack. "A Friend Of You" contains crisp guitar strums and punchy percussion. "Everything He Says" is an upbeat folk music anthem with catchy melodies and twangy resonances. There is a hint of country music driven by a folk music background. The music is also similar to the so-called 'country music' of contemporary Inuit music performers. Though, Arlon sings songs in English and about events, life, and family in America. Anyone with an interest in clear vocals, folk melodies, and a pop presence should find Arlon Bennett at the top of any listening list. Imagine the possibilities with Arlon Bennett. ~ Matthew Forss 

CD Review: Uncle Devin Show's 'Drum Tales!'

Uncle Devin Show
Drum Tales!
Self-Release

The Washington, DC-based educator, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, Uncle Devin, brings us a talented mix of ten songs that target younger viewers and listeners. As a children's album, the music is rather innovative and adult-oriented with occasional rap, spoken word, and helium-enriched vocals that get a message across without confusing listeners. The songs touch on social topics of Internet usage, healthy eating/living, days that don't go right, and doing what's right. Some of the songs, especially "Tell The Truth" and "Good Health Final," incorporate dance and electronic elements that stem from keyboard grooves of Eastern Africa. There are some vocal introductions to the percussion on "Drum Roll Call" that are engaging and performative. There are even scat vocals that mimic the percussive sounds. This is part African, South American, and North American. There are lessons in counting, language formation, and dance instruction. The quirky and comedic "I Like Onions" contains instructional learning about one of the most unlikely vegetables to make it in a song, but Uncle Devin succeeds with lead vocals, percussive tones, and munchkin-like vocals. Overall, the music is rather productive with varied vocals, spoken segments, varied percussion, multi-ethnic musical styles, and great lyrics. This one will be a favorite for parents, but the children will get a bigger kick out of the music. I give it five tiny fingers up! ~ Matthew Forss   

CD Review: Justin Ancheta's 'Plant'

Justin Ancheta
Plant
Self-Release

The reggae-funk and jazz concoctions of Justin Ancheta are pronounced on his latest release, Plant. There are some Klezmer, acoustic, and indie-rock-influenced tunes that showcase a good variety. Part of the diverse song styles stem from a diverse instrumental repertoire, which includes djembe, bass, clarinet, sax, trumpet, trombone, violin, clavinet, guitars, and various electronic accompaniment. With a background in Filipino/Spanish/English/Norwegian/American family roots, you know there has to be an ethnic bone in his body. Thankfully, all ethnicities are represented here, but jazz, folk, and funk seem to be at the top of the list. Justin Ancheta is a musician with a knack for creative songwriting that borders somewhere between Jason Mraz, Jack Johnson, and Xavier Rudd. Simply outstanding! ~ Matthew Forss 

CD Review: Jeff Clark's 'Just Visiting'

Jeff Clark
Just Visiting
Self-Release

The Texas-based vocalist and guitarist, Jeff Clark, brings us groovy Southern tunes with gritty guitars and crystalline pop melodies that are reminiscent of classic folk-rock anthems. The dozen tunes represent a catchy musical masterpiece echoing America's hey-day of easy listening magnificence. "You Are My Life" is a classy vocal and guitar tune with great percussion and sparkling sounds. "Mamie Mama" is a grungy and squawky-guitar driven track that represents a solid rock base with some electronic additions. "25 Years Later" is a classic 1970's American folk song made for today. The light percussion and slightly giddy melody combine with male and female vocals to make a memorable tune come alive with creative charm. The mix of grungy and gritty guitars with classy folk vocals and Southern spunk make Just Visiting something that will be around for a long time. There is a nice balance of gritty rock with classic American folk fusion that is sure to be a hit with adventurous Southern rock fans everywhere. ~ Matthew Forss 

CD Review: Nickodemus' 'Moon People'

Nickodemus
Moon People
ESL Music

Brooklyn-based DJ/producer, Nickodemus combines global sounds with the latest in club compositions founded upon a heady foundation of urban grooves and dubtronica. His twelve compositions bridge seemingly disparate worlds of American, Arabic, and Latin music within a modern context with ethereal vocals. The funky, pulsations of "Moon People," feature The Real Live Show with Arabic connotations and urban grooves. The urban grooves and down-tempo delights are enough to surprise the electronic music fan, as well as the fusion fan, too. Nickodemus features the talents of Afrika Bambaataa, Kathrin deBoer, The Candela Allstars, Sammy Ayala, and Kissey Asplund. The soulful vocals, punchy percussion, and Afro-Caribbean/Latin foundations are first and foremost an aural delicacy for the ears. This is good enough for moon people as it is for Earth people. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Hoquets' 'Belgotronics'

Hoquets
Belgotronics
Crammed

Hoquets is named after both the technique in Western medieval music of sharing a melody line between several voices or instruments and the French word for "hiccups." The band (pronounced: Okay) is born in Belgium with some American influences, too. For instance, home-made instruments and hip-hop/punk elements are evident on a few tracks, notably "Beni B," "Couque de Dinant," and "Otanato." The modern instrumentation incorporates a plethora of tinny, metallic, thumping, and squeaky sounds to go around. The music is somewhat catchy, but the instrumentation is quirky, compelling, and organic. As its name implies, there is a strong Belgium element throughout, but Flemish and French styles and languages are also represented. Overall, the sound is reminiscent of a drier funk, rock, and folk/hip-hop music that is what would happen if the Beastie Boys joined forces with Beck, Squonk Opera, and Blue Man Group. Whatever you call it, Belgotronics is an album that celebrates Belgium living and it is unique beyond belief. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Matuto's US-Brazil 'Matuto'

Matuto
Matuto
Galileo Records

Imagine the bluegrass sounds of the American South with the Brazilian folk rhythms of South America coming together in musical harmony. That is what you get when you listen to Matuto, which means 'bumpkin.' The mish-mash of sounds is full-on bluegrass fiddle and vocals, but it often occurs alongside the Brazilian folklore traditions of forro, samba, chorinho, frevo, and others. The folksy, guitar-picking melodies are entwined with lively accordion, Gypsy rhythms, and upbeat, traditional instrumentation that shines with aural color. The slight jazz and improvisational feel is evident on some tracks. The bottom line is a diverse mix of songs, melodies, and instrumentation that does not seem boring, lethargic, or annoyingly obtrusive. Instead, Matuto brightens the music of Brazil with European leanings and American rock sensibilities without resorting to mainstream pop. This is Gyspsy music of the South...Brazil, that is. ~ Matthew Forss 

CD Review: Trio Bravo's Self-Titled Release From Germany

Trio Bravo
Trio Bravo
Ozella Music

Though a Trio, there are several musicians on this exciting recording from Germany. The instrumental album contains cross-genre music incorporating North and South American, European, and Asian influences. Some instruments utilized include violin, piano, double bass, drums, marimba, cello, kontrabass, and assorted percussion. The fluid piano playing and spritely strings combine perfectly with the other instruments. Many of the songs are easy to imagine on a soundtrack. The gitty and jazzy "Wiener Wuerstchen" is a downtempo gem with violin work and folkish melodies. The klezmer-esque tunes are appropriately-matched with the upbeat strings and Eurocentric leanings. Nineteen tracks take on many characteristics of the classical and fusion worlds. Keep in mind the music is not amped up with guitars or keyboards, which is fine for a recording of this sort. The entire album can be summed up in one word: ausgezeichnet! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Istiklal Trio's Self-Titled Release From Israel

Istiklal Trio
Istiklal Trio
High Fidelity
 
The instrumental music of Istiklal Trio is appealing, energetic, and contemplative--all at the same time. The trio is Yaniv Taichman (oud, guitar), Ariel Qassis (kanun), and Noa Vax (percussion). The modern trio does not incorporate dance-club tunes or electronic compositions notable in the trance world. Instead, the Trio performs renditions of classical pieces with up-to-date song structures perfect for fans of improvisational music, world music, folk music, instrumental music, and percussion. The scintillating rhythms reflect a South Asian, South American, and Central Asian sensibility with the charm of the Middle East thrown in for good measure. The fourteen tracks contain a few taqsims--Arabic maqams--and one rendition of the Godfather movie theme. The Trio makes instrumental music interesting and lively enough without resorting to banal rhythms and mindless melodies. Each instrument is given plenty of air-time throughout. Let Istiklal Trio ignite the musical passion in all of us. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Bekay's "Livin' My Dream"

Bekay
Livin' My Dream
TSOB Records

Bekay's amped-up rap-infused tracks from Brooklyn, New York are in-your-face and ready to take America by storm. The twelve tracks are actually five different tracks with various remixes (both clean and explicit) of each track. At any rate, Bekay's lyrical delivery is a bit slower than Eminem, but no less fascinating. Interestingly, only three tracks are original: "Grab Someone," "Livin' My Dream," and "Fuk U." The original songs and remixes include hard-hitting lyrics about relationships, partying, urban lifestyles, and celebrating rap/hip hop culture. "Open The Door (Let 'em In)" is a rap cover of Paul McCartney's song. Also, "Where Brooklyn At" is a cover of the late-Old Dirty Bastard's hit song. Bekay incorporates a bit of shout-outs, indiscriminate vocals, and a party-like atmosphere with electronic wizardry, tight percussion sets, and urban dance grooves. Fans of rap and hip hop will love the music of Bekay, even though the album is a little short and if it includes seemingly senseless remixes and edits. Start a party on the streets with Bekay today! ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Haikaa's "Work Of Art"

Haikaa
Work Of Art

Haikaa's Brazilian, Japanese, and American upbringing is multicultural, but the music is pure gold. Haikaa's English lyrics and upbeat, pop/rock beats contain a bit of Celtic, European, and J-pop melodies that are catchy and very high quality.  Haikaa's vocal clarity of an angel resembles Orla Fallon, Nina Gordon, and Trish Murphy. The title track includes a pop-focused percussion, heavenly vocals, and light guitar accompaniment. The slower "Everything I Know About Love," contains a little dobro twang with the vocal likeness of The Corrs, amidst a more expansive musical arrangement. The music borders on a bit of Canadian Inuit pop, too. Specifically, the music of Susan Aglukark comes to mind. "Call Me By My Name" features Haikaa's young-sounding vocals in a catchy, vocally-driven track with a march-like percussion set-up. "Happy" is a nice tune with alternative guitar format with the charisma of Michelle Branch or Trish Murphy. The nine tracks contain sweet melodies, catchy rhythms, and guitar-pop foundations that surpass anything previously-released by comparable musicians. In short, Work Of Art is a work of great artistic achievement.   

CD Review: Sameer Gupta's Bolly-Jazz

Sameer Gupta

Namaskar

Motema

A jazz drummer and tabla talent, Sameer Gupta brings us a collection of songs inspired by early Bollywood film scores. The Sanskrit album title can mean "show respect", or "welcome" in English. Namaskar is something worthy of respect and it has a very welcoming sound. There are connections with American/Latin jazz and Indian music, which I appropriately dub 'Bolly-Jazz'. Sameer is joined by Marc Cory (keyboards, ableton, piano), Pt. Anindo Chatterjee (tabla), Pt. Ramesh Misra (sarangi), Srinivas Reddy (sitar), David Boyce (sax, EFX, clarinet), Prasant Radhakrishnan (carnatic sax), Charith Premawardanan (viola), and David Ewell (acoustic bass). The music is jazzy with hints of Latin and classical, amidst a wandering rhythm sound of Indian delight. Importantly, the music does not contain any vocalizations. Anyone with an appreciation for world fusion, jazz, Indian, avante-garde, and related styles will find inner (and outer) happiness with Namaskar. Lastly, the liner notes contain English interviews with Marc and Pts. Anindo and Ramesh. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Rounder Records 40 Years In The Making

Various Artists

Rounder Records 40th Anniversary Concert

Rounder

Recorded live, for the most part, at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee on October 12th 2009, the 40th anniversary celebration of Rounder's existence showcases a wide array of folk, rock, blues, jazz, bluegrass, cajun, and roots music from some of the labels most iconic musicians. You will hear performances by Alison Krauss, Irma Thomas, Steve Martin, Minnie Driver, Bela Fleck, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Nathan & The Zydeco Cha Chas, and the downtempo-jazz queen, Madeleine Peyroux. Over 2,000 albums have been released by Rounder Records, including many in the international genres. However, this concert does not feature any musicians representative of the world music genre. Still, the album is a lively showcase of instrumental and vocal music that should be heard and enjoyed by all. If you are fans of the musicians mentioned above, then this is an especially important gift for you. For everyone else, the Rounder Records 40th anniversary concert is one for the ages and a symbol of American folk music at its best. The liner notes contain short biographies of each artist, along with some song information. Most of all, CD royalties will be donated to the Grammy in the Schools programs under the auspices of the Grammy Foundation. ~ Matthew Forss