CD Review: Spark & Echo's 'Inheritance'

Spark & Echo
Inheritance
Self-Release

Husband-wife duo, Jonathon Roberts and Emily Clare Zempel, are based in New York's South Bronx. The acoustic folk, Christian, and contemporary singers/songwriters produce an uplifting release of eleven songs inspired by Biblical events, themes, and messages with memorable vocals and captivating instrumentation. In fact, the bassoon, ukulele, accordion, and piano are the instruments of choice. The gospel according to Spark & Echo is filled with theatrical piano-tinged tunes with assorted instruments and vocal medleys that are rich with pop-focused qualities. The alternative tunes are quirky, witty, instructional, and intelligent throughout. "Buy Me A Hat" is a funky, heady tune with classy vocals and theatrical musical elements that are swishy, punchy, and carefree. "Inheritance" continues in the funky vein with Ben Folds-esque vocals and vocal deliveries with poetic lyrics and jazzy, classical, and experimental foundations. "How To Be Free" opens with an angelic vocal medley accompanied by accordion, bell-tones, and light percussion. The entire song represents a little down-tempo with some big kirtan-like arrangements that reflect a Christian presence, rather than seeking spiritual guidance from Hindu sources. Overall, the music resembles a mishmash of Squonk Opera, Ben Folds, and Zero 7. This is a solid release of tunes that are applicable for all of the world's inhabitants. Each song is a spiritual release whether you believe it or not. 5 Stars (out of 5). ~ Matthew Forss      

CD Review: Tarrus Riley's 'Mecoustic'

Tarrus Riley
Mecoustic
Soulbeats

Tarrus Riley is a Jamaican-American Rastafarian singer based in Bronx, NY. His style is easy-going reggae music with a soulful attitude and slight pop focus. The scintillating rhythms are smooth, infectious, and easy to listen to. The use of strings, guitars, horns, keyboards, and bass combine with bluesy and powerful vocals with accompanying backup voices representing a slight gospel edge. The English vocals contain a Jamaican presence that is always pleasant and relaxing. The militaristic march style of "She's Royal" is a heartfelt track all the way through. The piano sounds of "Eye Sight" are slightly jazzy, but Tarrus' vocals remind us we are in reggae territory. The typical staccato reggae beats are not particularly evident throughout the album. The poppy "Paradise" tune is a bright mix of sax, guitars, percussion, and backup vocals. Still, reggae fans will love the accessibility of all the songs no matter what their background or preference may be. Mecoustic is not about egos or selfishness; it's about music. ~ Matthew Forss