CD Review: Kimie Miner's New Self-Titled Release

Kimie Miner
Kimie Miner
Self-Release

Hawaii's Kimie Miner is a singer-songwriter of Hawaiian and Portuguese descent. The rousing tunes on her self-titled release are in English; except for "Kumulau." The melodies retain a slight R&B presence and lounge jazz sensibility that is refreshing, urban, and pop-focused. There are some danceable tunes with vocals not too unlike Nelly Furtado. A bouncy piano rhythm makes an appearance (along with Caleb Keolanui) on "Love's In The Melody." "Trouble" is a nod to South American alternative pop and electronica with a sassy reggae edge. While, "Make It To Morning," "Fallin' Again," "Lullabies," and "Shine" resemble the harmonic structures of The Beu Sisters' early work. Kimie's album contains equal parts of dance, electronica, guitar pop, reggae, and alternative genres for a great musical journey. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: The Expanders' 'Hustling Culture'

The Expanders
Hustling Culture
Easy Star Records

Hailing from California with a sound from Jamaica, The Expanders expand their horizons (and ours!) with their new reggae-infused, Hustling Culture. The roots-influenced, rock and reggae beats grace all the tracks on this urban and contemporary-inspired release. The deep bass beats and syncopation are iconic in reggae music from Jamaica and contemporary reggae music from around the world. A dozen tunes of reggae bliss blast from the album with soothing beats, diverse percussion, and great vocals that do not miss a step. The upbeat and catchy ballad, "Piece Of Love," is a reggae anthem worthy of global praise and multiple listens. The laid-back, syncopated beats of "People Business" showcases a lighter side of reggae. Overall, The Expanders are very talented and do not have trouble creating beautiful songs that will stand the test of time. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Various Artists' 'Afro-Caribbean Party'

Various Artists
Afro-Caribbean Party
Putumayo

Putumayo releases another gem of a recording and this time they celebrate the music of Afro-Caribbean lands for their aptly-titled, Afro-Caribbean Party. The new album contains a cast of ten different musicians hailing from Martinique, Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba. You will hear the Cape Verde and New Orleans jazz-inspired medley of Kali, rolling reggae melodies by Clinton Fearon, jazzy ska by Ska Cubano and Wesli, Afro-Latin dance by Michel Blaise, Latin jazz from Asere, Mandingo reggae with Famara, island rhythms from Jan Sebon and Kazak International, Afro-Latin jazz and folk with a classic tone by Chispa Labori, and mostly instrumental Bahamian folk music from Fred Ferguson & Grafitti. The diverse musical line-up showcases a good overview of typical Afro-Caribbean examples, but it is in no way complete or covers strictly traditional music from the above-mentioned regions. Still, it is a vibrant and dance-worthy album that runs a little short (38:42), but it makes up for it with repeated listens. Plus, a refreshing Caribbean punch recipe is included. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Brooklyn Gypsies' 'Sin Fronteras'

Brooklyn Gypsies
Sin Fronteras
Wonderwheel Recordings

The diverse sounds of Brooklyn's streets and neighborhoods have never been highlighted like this before. There are urban stylings, flamenco sounds, North African music, Middle Eastern melodies, and of course, gypsy elements. The result is a rather modern recording incorporating the talents of Carmen Estevez, Takuya Nakamura, Tina Kristina, Brandon Lewis, Troy Simms, and Zeb. With songs rich in Spanish, English, and even Russian vocals, you know this is going to be an interesting recording. If gypsy music originated in Brooklyn, Sin Fronteras would be the end result. There are dancehall, reggae, dub, electronica, and Arabic influences that add authenticity and depth. The syncopated beats, modern Middle Eastern infusions, and brass textures gives new meaning to the term gypsy music. Ten great tracks comprise the album. Brooklyn Gypsies know how to make music. ~ Matthew Forss

Digital Music Review: Road Man's 'Light At The Speed Of Life'

Road Man
Light At The Speed Of Life
Soulspazm

Links: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram

Road Man is the name of Jon Petronzio's group, which spreads great grooves and hook-laden melodies in rock, reggae, down-tempo, and electronica formats. The New York-based band-leader creates funky, moving rhythms that rival the electronica leanings of Action Figure Party and a few reggae beats indicative of Bob Marley and Cas Haley. "The Meeting" is a funky, rock-laden tune with a Southern angst and contemporary appeal that incorporates a bluesy and roots feel. "Chosen" is a psychedelic fun-fest with glittering electronics and a funky beat with great vocals. "Dangerous Road" is a syncopated beat delight with reggae leanings and funk melodies that awaken everyone into a dance mood. "Lights Camera Action" brings together more of an urban dance feel with glistening electronica, swishy percussion, and fast vocals. "Run Away With Me" is another reggae beat gem with throbbing B3 organ sounds representing a roots-centric fixture. The diversity in tracks is exceptional and the melodies are well worth repeated listens. You can dance, relax, space out, and move your hips to the music of Road Man without having any guilt or apprehension. 5 Stars (out of 5). ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: TreeHouse!'s 'Lifted'

TreeHouse!
Lifted
Self-Release

Reggae-beat from South Carolina? You bet. The Southern band brings reggae, jam band, and rock themes to the mix on their third album, Lifted. There are some psychedelic powers going on here, but the reggae backbeat is never too far away. For instance, "Guru" has all the elements of a groove-laden, psychedelic track with extended instrumentals and jam-band vocals with a catchy beat and TreeHouse! does not disappoint. A dozen tracks fill the album with tons of lush melodies, edgy grooves, and world fusion influences that follow a reggae foundation and psychedelic foundation with hints of roots and folk. The fluid bass sounds are especially good on "Take It Away" and "Just Another Day." The album is as colorful as the artwork. There is a good amount of diverse stylings and beats that are never boring or redundant. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Sizzla's 'Born A King'

Sizzla
Born A King
Muti Music

Jamaican-reggae at its best would not be the best without the vocals of Sizzla and his edgy, groove-laden, and funky little band. The big sound steeped in dubby grooves, staccato beats, and throaty vocals makes Born A King fit for everyone. There is an element of hip-hop, urban, dancehall, and soul music. There are even electronic gurgles, tones, and reverberations that keep the sound fresh and contemporary. The sound would not be complete without the talents of Errol Dunkley, Vida-Sunshyne, Turbulence, and Alton Ellis. Sizzla brings a heavier, more urban-driven sound to the reggae market, but that doesn't make it any less enjoyable. Still, fans of more innovative reggae with urban beats will find it most satisfying. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Rocky Dawuni's 'Branches Of The Same Tree'

Rocky Dawuni
Branches Of The Same Tree
Cumbancha

Ghanaian-native and LA-based, Rocky Dawuni brings a rousing mix of Afro-roots and reggae-based grooves to the forefront on Branches Of The Same Tree. The English vocals and great backup vocalizations make the songs very lively. However, the drums, bass, guitar, and keyboards played in a staccato pattern is the real prize here. "Black Star" features edgier guest vocals from Samini. There is even some electric guitar sounds that fuse a little rock n roll to the reggae beat. The pleasant and island-friendly tune, "Island Girl," is more of an acoustic song with earthy ukulele and catchy melodies. Of course, fans of Bob Marley will be enamored, as well as contemporary listeners of reggae music. This is jah-st a beautiful album! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Jah9's 'New Name'

Jah9
New Name
Rorystonelove/Steamchalice

Jah9 hails from Jamaica, so naturally, reggae music is a likely influence. You would be right, but mix a little pop, urban, dub, and roots music and you have Jah9's new album, New Name. Jah9 is a rare find, as she is one of a very select number of reggae stars that are female. There are reverberations of dub electronica, vocal prowess, trippy beats, socially-relevant lyrics, and throbbing keys projecting sounds through one's soul and mind. There are even poetic moments of spoken word on "Interlude." The fluidity of "Gratitude" makes one want to dive into reggae with full-force and never look back. There are fourteen tracks with two of these tracks performed as an extended mix. At any rate, fans of dub, electronic, reggae, Jamaican roots, and just plain great music will love New Name. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Selasee & Fafa Family's 'Time For Peace'

Selasee & Fafa Family
Time For Peace
Self-Release

Born in Ghana, Selasee & Fafa Family, create whirling rhythms of heady funk and reggae beats with a fusion of Bob Marley, Alpha Blondy, and Caribbean melodies that possess a pop background in a contemporary and somewhat urban setting. The music of West Africa is influenced by reggae music, but it is not as globally-prevalent as Afro-pop or blues music. The soulful vocals, bouncy drums, fluid bass, gritty guitars, sax and trumpet sounds, keyboard washes, and strings create a magnificent musical medley rich in history and highlife sensibilities, which grow out of the reggae and soul domain. Whatever it is called; it is something that should be shared with everyone you know as soon as possible. These African melodies and sounds are unparalleled. For a truly great musical journey, please make Time For Peace a staple in your listening library. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: New Kingston's 'Kingston City'

New Kingston
Kingston City
Easy Star Records

New York City-based and reggae proud, New Kingston adds an element of urban hip hop, world fusion, and island rhythms stemming from their Jamaican roots. The twelve track album contains edgy, fluid tunes with witty lyrics and a heady delivery with guest singers such as, Maad T-Ray, E.N. Young, Kimie Miner, The Wailing Souls, the late-Sugar Minott, and Sister Carol, adding a well-rounded crew of talent. The innovative reggae label of Easy Star continues to find, hone, and spread the word of reggae to the world. New Kingston is no different, as their Jamaican roots and grooves head to the forefront. Some of the songs are more straight-forward and pop-driven, but the reggae influence is never too far behind. Fans of urban reggae music, world fusion, and great, contemporary music will find it most satisfying. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Super Hi-Fi's 'Yule Analog, Vol. 1'

Super Hi-Fi
Yule Analog, Vol. 1
Self-Release

Super Hi-Fi dub-masters are back and in a celebratory mood for the upcoming holiday season with the release of their latest venture, Yule Analog, Vol. 1. The instrumental release spreads a bit of holiday cheer in all the right ways. There are fluid beats, jazzy horns, dubby noises, and psych-sensibilities throughout the ten-track release, which is available as a digital release. These guys put a new spin on the Christmas season with familiar and iconic tunes reinvented, including, "We Three Kings," "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear (2 versions)," "Little Drummer Boy," "Go Tell It On The Mountain (2 versions)," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "Auld Lang Syne," and one of the dubbiest, horn-driven, and reggae-infectious song imaginable ("Yule Analog"). The upbeat songs are sure to drive everyone into a happy frenzy. Put this on for your holiday party and you won't need any eggnog. It's that good. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Backbeat Soundsystem's 'Together Not Apart'

Backbeat Soundsystem
Together Not Apart
Easy Star Records

Reggae from the U.K.? Yes, indeed. The eight-piece reggae-roots band, Backbeat Soundsystem, fires on all cylinders with their latest, hook-laden release, Together Not Apart. The group comprises the talents of Dean Forrest, Darren Kendall, Zac Jesus Esquela Harkavy, Jon Symons, Sam Parsons, Elf Forrest, Lawrence Willoughby, and Tom Neale. The music contains catchy, bass-laden beats with hooks that will grab everyone's attention. There are twelve tracks in all. Each song is unique and blends reggae sounds with pop, rock, and urban jazz. The fluid sounds of reggae and punchy percussion are all positive attributes that make Together Not Apart stand alone as an impressive recording. Fans of Easy Star Records will find this a necessary recording. Also, fans of reggae will love it. ~ Matthew Forss

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: Tour de Force's 'Battle Cry' Double-Disc

Tour de Force
Battle Cry [2 CD]
Dub-Stuy Records

When all the top reggae and dub DJ's in the world come together; Battle Cry results. The impressive two-disc release contains ten different tracks on Disc 1. The dub-steady, electronic, and funk-infused concoctions bring in some guest musicians, including Brother Culture, Jahdan Blakkamoore, Jay Spaker, and Luciano. The whole mix is dub, hip-hop, urban, reggae, and electronic dance music with a soul. Disc 2 contains remixes of eight songs on Disc 1. Most of the songs on Disc 2 contain at least two different remixes per track. Overall, Tour de Force is a great collection of dub-songs with a heavy beat and reggae ambiance. Fans of dub, reggae, dance, electronica, world fusion, and contemporary music will find solace in Battle Cry. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Sound's 'Steady'

Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Sound
Steady
Easy Star Records

Psychedelic roots-reggae? Yes. That is one phrase to describe New York's Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Sound. The group will be releasing Steady at the end of September and it is packed with thirteen thrilling, reggae-infused tunes. Every song is catchy and full of dance grooves, head-bobbing rhythms, and soulful vocals. As with other Easy Star recordings, Steady continues in the reggae realm with enhanced vigor and pleasant tunes. GPGDS, as they are known, feature great reggae, rock, and pop sensibilities that are unforgettable. There is a jam-band appeal on some of the tracks, but the characteristic syncopated beats inherent in reggae are still present here. Steady is a great release that should please world reggae fans everywhere. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Easy Star All-Stars' 'Dub Side Of The Moon'

Easy Star All-Stars
Dub Side Of The Moon
Easy Star Records

In celebration of their 10th anniversary for the 2003 release of the same name, Easy Star All-Stars are proud to announce their dubby and reggae-infused, Dub Side Of The Moon. The album celebrates the music of Pink Floyd with his ever-popular, Dark Side Of The Moon released many years ago. This new release contains different liner artwork, a liner note booklet, and a few bonus tracks. The entire project is produced by Michael Goldwasser and Victor Axelrod. The album is fifteen-tracks long and features the music of Pink Floyd's abovementioned release, including "Speak To Me," "Breathe," "On The Run," "Time," "Brain Damage," and several others. The dub and reggae-infused concoctions are heady, lush, and dance-inducing. There are electronic elements, which modernize the sounds a bit. But, anyone interested in reggae, dub, and Pink Floyd will love this very special ten year anniversary release. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Brooklynshanti's 'Bedstuyle'

Brooklynshanti
Bedstuyle
Rhythm & Culture/Someplace Called Brooklyn

Brooklynshanti's dance and electronic musings incorporate urban, reggae, hip-hop, soul, South Indian, and world fusions that are all delectable and sunny. The reggae fusions on "This Feeling" and contemporary hip-pop of "She" brings a bit of rock and pop to the forefront, but the vocals are still the major part of the song. The sunny and scintillating dance tune, "Sun Salutation," is ripe with killer grooves, female vocals, and great use of percussion and keyboard effects. "Garden Of Ghosts" is a sweet, electronic song with light female vocals and sparkling percussion and digital effects in the vein of Beth Orton. Some tracks feature the music of Karsh Kale, Dani Mari, Tinakristina, Vanessa Beatriz, Evelyn Sharma, Jahdan Blakkamoore, and others. The music is relatively lo-fi with an emphasis on grooves and instrumental medleys providing a majority of the accompaniment, but the vocals are equally important and varied. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Zvuloon Dub System's 'Anbessa Dub'

Zvuloon Dub System
Anbessa Dub
Self-Release

The Tel-Aviv-based reggae/Ethiopian jazz group, Zvuloon Dub System, seamlessly merges two unique musical styles together to form a danceable and very likable beat. The group infuses reggae beats on several tracks with a little Amharic to mix it up just a little bit. Roots reggae, jazz, and East African soul explains what is going on here. The moving beats and diverse vocals attract equally-great instrumental portions that are like little morsels of delicious candy. There are traditional reggae instruments, including the piano, organ, guitars, bass, drums, sax, trumpet, and trombone, along with Ethiopian krar (a plucked harp) and a masinko (a type of small fiddle). Mahmoud Ahmed is a featured and well-known performer here, but Zemene Melesse, Yaacov Lilay, and Shay Sattaman Jacovi add vocals, too. Otherwise, Gili Yalo is the lead vocalist. The East African, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean influences are evident and pervasive, but everything is used in moderation. Anyone seeking reggae beats via Israel, Ethiopia, and beyond will have fun with Anbessa Dub. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: See-I's 'Knowledge Shine Bright'

See-I
Knowledge Shine Bright
Fort Knox Recordings

Washington, DC's Afro-funk band, See-I, releases a new album that continues in their funk, house, trance, hip hop, and rock paths with Knowledge Shine Bright. The opening anthem, "Never Give Up," is a reggae, funk, and rock-infused medley of luscious sounds and catchy melodies with punchy horns, jingly guitars, and reggae vocals. A dozen tracks round out the album with classic funk rhythms, hip-hop grooves, and urban styles that combine electronica with jazzy horns. The entire collection of songs are especially likable, which is probably due to the catchy and infectious melodies. At any rate, See-I is not afraid of experimenting or mixing styles, instruments, or grooves. Get your soul filled with 'Knowledge', so it can 'Shine Bright.' ~ Matthew Forss