CD Review: Captain Planet's 'Esperanto Slang'

Captain Planet
Esperanto Slang
Bastard Jazz Recordings

The global sounds of Captain Planet's music brings out the funkiest grooves known to mankind on their latest release, Esperanto Slang. There is an underlying South American funk sound mixed with urban hip-hop, dance, psychedelic, and Afro-beat concoctions that bring the music to life. A dozen tracks and a dozen different tunes represents Captain Planet's latest release. The international grooves and musical influences could not have been accomplished without the help of contributing musicians, such as Samira Winter, Chico Mann, Brit Lauren, Alsarah, La Yegros, Paco Mendoza, and a few others. The laid-back, almost reggae-tinged, "In The Gray," is a beautiful anthem with lush vocals, a catchy melody, and urban influences with a trippy, dance-groove. "Safaru" is another gem on the recording with a contemporary beat and world jazz arrangement. Anyone seeking contemporary groove music from South America to Central Africa north to European clubs and back to the Caribbean region will love the trans-cultural music of Captain Planet. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Captain Planet's 'Cookin' Gumbo'

Captain Planet

Cookin' Gumbo

Bastard Jazz Recordings

You might think Captain Planet is named for the iconic comic hero. Instead, Captain Planet is a perfect title to describe the musical influences inherent throughout the tasty tracks on Cookin' Gumbo. As a first full-length album effort, Captain Planet (aka Charlie Bethel) creates supercharged music with funky beats, Latin elements, and African sensibilities within the context of an urban environment. Even South Asian influences can be found on 'Ram Ad Infinitum.' An LA-area singer, Brit Lauren, adds her voice, along with Congo's Fredy Massamba. The bossa-nova beats, contemporary urban electronica, and African hip-hop set the stage for a delicious romp on the wild side of the musical spectrum. Some of the tracks have good 'ol, nostalgic scratches at the beginning of the songs. Still, Cookin' Gumbo is an appetizing album with all the spice that life can drum up! ~ Matthew Forss