CD Review: Maracatu New York's 'Baque Do Brooklyn'

Maracatu New York
Baque Do Brooklyn
Nation Beat Music

Maracatu New York is a band steeped in the maracatu band music of northeast Brazil. The New York-based group consists of numerous musicians that play sax, trumpet, trombone, tuba. caixa, alfaias, gongue, viola, guitar, bass, drums, agbe, and other instruments. The overall sound is energetic and party-like with Mardi Gras-type sounds and danceable tunes. The band music is raw and authentic, which is reminiscent of capoeira--also from Brazil. The vocals are vibrant and youthful. However, the instrumentation is the real winner here. There are twelve songs in all. Fans of Brazilian big band brass and percussion will love it. Yet, anyone into Brazilian, Latin, or dance music should love this world fusion concoction. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Gecko Turner's 'Gone Down South'

Gecko Turner

Gone Down South

Lovemonk Records

Gone Down South is a reinvented throwback to the American funk and soul of the 1960's and 70's. However, Gecko Turner's vocals fall somewhere between world/folk-crooners, Xavier Rudd (Australia) and Douglas September (USA). Gecko relates his 'southern' roots to his homeland of Southern Spain. The classic blues/funk sounds of the Southern United States weave in and out of his music. Expectedly, a touch of Latin folk and funk pops up from time to time. The sultry sounds and rhythms create a surreal mood and memorable experience for any listener. Overall, Gone Down South builds upon a slew of genre-bending music with contributions from reggae, hip hop, jazz, funk, folk, trance, downtempo, big band, blues, Afro-Latin pop, and others. Importantly, Gecko's voice is the lead on most tracks with some smoky, groovy cool instrumental parts. Gone Down South rises to the occasion on every beat. ~ Matthew Forss