CD Review: Blitz The Ambassador's 'Afropolitan Dreams'

Blitz The Ambassador
Afropolitan Dreams
Embassy Mvmt

The Ghanaian-born rapper based in New York, Blitz The Ambassador, combines Afro-pop melodies, rap vocals, and refreshing Afro-soul sound that echoes beats of decades ago. The vocal king incorporates a few guest musicians fill in already great tracks. For example, Angelique Kidjo, Nneka, Sarkodie, Marcelo D2, Seun Kuti, Amma Whatt, and many other artists are represented. The album is a continuation of the journey to America with all of the trials and tribulations that accompany the struggle to establish oneself in a new land. The twelve tracks are unique, easy to understand, and incorporate a plethora of African, American, and rap fusion styles. The melodies and rhythms are very catchy, poignant, and meaningful. The music is more than rap or hip hop, since the melodies are somewhat drawn out, which provides a more Afro-pop, funk, and soul concoction. Check out Afropolitan Dreams while you can. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Kheswa & Her Martians' 'Meadowlands, Stolen Jazz'

Kheswa & Her Martians
Meadowlands, Stolen Jazz
Xippi

Kheswa & Her Martians bring us a writhing mix of South African jazz grooves abundant with piano, guitar, trumpet, sax, bass, drums, and some vocals. The opener, "Tshona," is an instrumental delight with giddy grooves, punchy sax, and classic piano chords matched with swishy percussion and South African charm. "Ntyilo Ntyilo" is a classic jazz song with great vocals and a bouncing piano melody that sparkles with post-Apartheid soul. "Malaika" is a popular song throughout Africa with many covers done over the years by many different artists. This tune is slow, classic, and jazzy with little instrumentation. "Simon" is a richly-textured with up-beat, jazzy rhythms. Vocally, Kheswa is akin to Benin's Angelique Kidjo. The entire album was recorded live at Joe's Pub in New York City on July 14, 2013. Fans of South African jazz, world jazz, and African music in general will love Kheswa & Her Martians. ~ Matthew Forss