CD Review: Temple Bhajan Band's 'Bhakti Dance'

Temple Bhajan Band

Bhakti Dance!

Independent Release

With the popularity of Krishna Das, MC Yogi, Mayapuris, and others, kirtan music has taken off in many different arenas and capacities. The Temple Bhajan Band is based in LA with band members from the Philippines, Tasmania, and the US. The typical kirtan repertoire is included here, but there is more to the harmonium/sitar/drum-structure usually attributed to these groups. In this case, Bhakti Dance! contains a cajon, which provides a bit of Latin accompaniment not often observed in kirtan music. The cello, bass, flute, sitar, tanpura, harmonium, djembe drum, guitar, and other instruments provide the instrumental foundation for the music. The Sanskrit songs are sometimes found on other recordings by different artists under different renditions; notably, "Hare Krishna" and "Loka Samasta." The Latin-tinged "Sri Krishna Caitanya" begins the journey. The folksy-country infused "Loka Samasta" is a pleasant ballad with Sanskrit and English vocals. Moreover, the song reflects a classic, Americana vein not usually found in kirtan music. Bhakti Dance! is a fun, spiritual, and expressive journey into the world of kirtan. ~ 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

CD Review: The Green's 'Ways & Means'

The Green

Ways & Means

Easy Star Records

Hawaii's The Green is a pop-reggae band that infuses modern reggae roots with rock, jazz, and island flavors. 'Decisions' is a bit of a reggae-dance hit with similarities to Sweden's Ace Of Base and Maroon 5. Thirteen other hits round out the track-list with obvious nods to reggae's biggest stars, though The Green writes and composes original material. The pop-driven 'Gotta Be' is pure gold. The title track, 'Ways & Means,' takes a laid-back approach to reggae songwriting with a slower tune and vocals indicative of St. Lucia's Taj Weekes. The English lyrics and reggae-based repertoire borders on rock, folk, pop, and dance, which never seems to be a challenge for these guys. The pop hooks and clever looks make The Green stand-out among the reggae roster of the world. Ways & Means is the best new music to be released in the reggae genre this year! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: MonoMono's 'The Dawn Of Awareness'

MonoMono

The Dawn Of Awareness

Tummy Touch

The second release by Nigeria's MonoMono was originally released on LP in 1974. Thankfully, the folks at Tummy Touch Records revived the music of MonoMono, which features the work of Joni Haastrup and his friend, Baba Ken Okulolo. The original six songs are presented on this rerelease. The blues, rock, psychedelia, and funk elements are quite pronounced throughout. The instrumental segments are especially intriguing, as they set the stage for a perfect soundtrack to lounge around, dance, or trip-out. The down-tempo elements of 'Make Them Realise,' cnojures up comparisons to the North American group, Action Figure Party. The soul of Yoruban funk emanates from the tracks without causing boredom or sleepy episodes. The Dawn Of Awareness is a little more blues and rock-driven than the previous release. Still, MonoMono knows how to move those feet with rewarding results. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: MonoMono's 'Give The Beggar A Chance'

MonoMono

Give The Beggar A Chance

Tummy Touch Records

Nigeria's Joni Haastrup created his band called MonoMono back in 1971. Though not truly a solo sojourn, Joni's friend Baba Ken Okulolo, who is also a bassist, added to the funk arena of West Africa. Initially released as an LP on the Odeon label in 1973, Give The Beggar A Chance featured seven tracks of funky rhythms and Latin infusions amidst an instrumental repertoire of organ, piano, synthesizer, percussion, and drums, set the stage for a new kind of jazz-rock-funk. Joni is joined by guitarist Jimmy Adams, and percussionists Candido Obajimi and Friday Jumbo. At the very core of its being, the soul of the 70's shines through in MonoMono's work. The bluesy-funk of 'The World Might Fall Over,' showcases a nice blend of bass, organ, and synthesizer with strong vocals. If you are seeking Afro-funk music from a living icon, then sample MonoMono today. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Joni Haastrup's reissue 'Wake Up Your Mind'

Joni Haastrup

Wake Up Your Mind

Tummy Touch Records

Nigerian-born and US-based funk king, Joni Haastrup, released a wicked LP on the Afrodesia imprint back in London in 1978. The LP titled Wake Up Your Mind contained the same six tracks on the current reissue from Tummy Touch. Joni's funk-driven form of music contains the classic bass-lines, instrumental grooves, and lively vocals characteristic of other performers of the time. 'Greetings' is a jazzy, funk-riddled song with equal amounts of down-tempo and African elements. The title track, 'Wake Up Your Mind,' is more of a social concern song with all the funk one can stand. 'Champions & Superstars' is a jazzy, bass-heavy, and funky song with more of an American musical feel. 'Do The Funkro' is littered with funkisms, glorious harmonies, and Fela Kuti-like similarities. In fact, Fela Kuti might be the most influential musician here. The last track, 'Watch Out,' is a bit of classic funk with rock thrown in to keep the mood high. Fans of Tirogo, Psychedelic Aliens, and other African 70's funk music will find Joni's latest reissue very satisfying. English vocals are present on all of the tracks. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Anyango's 'Tei Molo' Out Late September 2011

Anyango
Tei Molo
Jowi Music

(Cover Art Not Yet Available)

Japan's only nyatiti performer brings us her latest work with Kenyan melodies, Latin influences, and Varttina-like singing on Tei Molo. The nyatiti is an eight-stringed lyre indigenous to Eastern Africa. Anyango plays it with a sweet and sincere intensity that infuses a touch of magic on each track. As a vocalist, Anyango sings in the native Dholuo language of Kenya. The fifteen tracks represent a range of New Age, folk, and traditional elements that are not particularly 'Japanese'. If you are seeking a Japanese music recording, you will have to search elsewhere. Though, Anyango's musical talents extend far beyond borders and cultural origins. In short, her music is universal with a general appeal to African music fans. Additionally, the music possesses a slight funkiness that will happify even the most discriminating listener. Tei Molo is filled with luscious harmonies, stunning instrumental work, and a gentle charisma that should satisfy with earshot of the music. ~ Matthew Forss