CD Review: Lorraine Klaasen's 'Nouvelle Journee'

Lorraine Klaasen
Nouvelle Journee
Justin Time Records

Hailing from South Africa, Lorraine Klaasen releases a new album of South African music, aptly-titled, Nouvelle Journee. The vibrant album artwork is only the beginning. The music is equally vibrant and rich in musical textures, harmonies, and instrumental arrangements. Lorraine's commanding vocal tone is melodic. The instrumentation is nothing short of amazing, as the accordion, bass, guitars, percussion, piano, and organ provide a slew of catchy arrangements. The rippling guitars on "Ke Tshepile Bafatsi," showcase Latin and Congolese influences. The R&B influences are not forgotten either, as "Home Sweet Home" conjures up images of Southern blues, gospel, and jazz. Though, upbeat music is Lorraine's specialty. Nouvelle Journee is a very classic, and contemporary album that touches the human spirit with a legendary and unforgettable voice. ~ Matthew Forss    

CD Review: Kimberly Haynes' 'Awaken Me'

Kimberly Haynes
Awaken Me
Wise Old Owl Recordings

California singer/songwriter, Kimberly Haynes, brings us eleven songs infused with delicate musical arrangements, graceful vocals, and spacious melodies on Awaken Me. Kimberly knows how to create beautiful songs with a soul. The music arouses new age leanings, world music fusions, Middle Eastern panache, and South Asian traditions for a truly unforgettable musical journey. The meditative opener and album title track, "Awaken Me," is a perfect introduction to the album, as it sets a steady tone amidst hang drum, frame drums, bass, bell, synth, and guitars. The Middle Eastern-influenced tune, "The Dreams," adds a more upbeat element with strings, guitars, and a gopichand. "The Light Of My Soul" strengthens Kimberly's pop presence with light percussion, fluid bass-lines, and excellent vocals throughout. The contemporary edge is rather reduced overall, but some songs are more pronounced and melodic. Kimberly's voice is akin to Canada's Susan Aglukark, but Donna De Lory and Natalie Merchant are similar influences, too. Awaken Me will cause everyone to wake up and listen to a small portion of beautiful music contained in this world. Let Kimberly be your guide to open that world for you! ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Ciro Hurtado Releases 'Selva'

Ciro Hurtado
Selva
Inti Productions

The Peruvian-born and California-based, Ciro Hurtado, brings to life the sounds of his homeland, which are eloquently captured throughout the new album, Selva. Ciro's roots are found in the album's title, which is Spanish for 'jungle.' The album artwork is as colorful as the music. Ciro's wife, Cindy Harding, provide some vocals, while the music is mainly steeped in Latin fusion, light jazz, and acoustic forays. The pleasant music is never boring or uninspired. In fact, it encompasses some of the best instrumental sounds from the region. There are even classical Indian elements. The album is rather contemporary in its approach, making sure not to veer off too far in any one direction (i.e. rock, folk, fusion, etc.). However, there is a nice mix of lounge melodies, new age concoctions, and simply beautiful sounds that run the gamut from Amazonian, pre-Columbian, and cumbia-inspired tunes. Ciro's guitar and charango work are outstanding throughout. Simply put, this album is perfect for any occasion and any person. This is one of the best 'Latin' albums to ever come out. Own it now! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Estonia's Maarja Nuut's 'Une Meeles' (In The Hold Of A Dream)

Maarja Nuut
Une Meeles
Self-Release

Estonia's fiddler and singer, Maarja Nuut, releases her latest musical venture full of minimalist delicacies, mysterious electronic soundscapes, and light melodies with an experimental vibe. The vocals are akin to Vaartina in parts. However, the musical structures are similar to other artists from Scandinavia. The atmospheric sounds and somewhat industrial or metallic sounds on a few tracks showcases Maarja's creativity. For instance, the sound of a cell tower is the focus of "Kiik Tahab Kindaid." Maarja's classical Indian music studies shine through on some of the fiddle compositions, such as "Siidisulis Linnukene." Interestingly, some of the plucked string compositions reflect a North African sound not normally observed in Estonian music. Fans of Scandinavian folk and experimental music should find it very satisfying. Also, the vocal arrangements are not too far from Icelandic or Greenlandic influences. This is a very engaging and solid release. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Opycham's 'new-age.om'

Opycham
new-age.om
Sketis Music

Opycham's latest release, new.age.om, was recorded in Tuva, which is spearheaded by drummer and percussionist, Rasputin (of Yat-Kha-fame). The meditative and monastic eight-track release celebrates various religions including Russian faiths, Buddhism, and Shamanism. The album contains a backdrop of various rain sounds, fire, birds, insects, and water-flows for a very earthy element. The pensive instrumentation is rather light and alternative and comprises the cello, djumbush (like a Turkish tanbur), guitar, and hand-percussion. The music is vocal, but very entrancing overall. The subtle inflections of earthy elements and hypnotic vocals make Opycham's latest release well-worth a listen. Fans of shamanic, alternative, new age, Russian folk, and European music will love it. It's a great way to unwind! ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Argentina's Gabriel Palatchi Releases 'Trivolution'

Gabriel Palatchi
Trivolution
Self-Release

Argentinian pianist and synth player, Gabriel Palatchi, is joined by Kerry Galloway on electric bass and Jose Maria Gonzalez on drums and percussion. Trivolution is a work of three band members that are not alone, as a few additional performers are added to the mix. The down-tempo, psych-driven grooves are jazz-infused and South American-tinged. The synths create a fluid, smooth jazz feel at times. On "Sefarad Roots," the music takes a Klezmer turn with a Gypsy-esque beat and melody. In fact, 'sefarad' suggests a Ladino presence with Old Spain. The funky sounds of "What Da Funk" contain a few vocals by David Gall. "Vive" is the only other track with vocals. Some of the songs are ripe with Latin brass and heavy percussion, while not straying too far from their South American jazz roots. The punchy and varied beats are a must-hear for fans of world jazz, South American music, and psych-funk concoctions. Trivolution is an excellent album. Join in the fun! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Terakaft's 'Alone'

Terakaft
Alone
Outhere Records

One of Mali's greatest Tuareg blues guitar groups, Terakaft, brings us another gem from the desert. This is the fifth album from Terakaft and it keeps getting better. The soulful and bluesy guitar rhythms are punctuated by hand-claps, ambulating percussion, scintillating guitar strums, and bubbly bass-lines. The music is quite peaceful at times, while the guitar and rock-like arrangements make an appearance on a few of the tracks. The songs are sung in Tamasheq with liner notes in Tamasheq, English, and French. There are nine tunes here with loads of great grooves imbibing the Saharan spirit through mesmerizing guitar chords. The electric guitar sounds are not to be missed. As a total package, Alone is one of the best Tuareg releases of the year. If you seek Tuareg guitar rock and Tamasheq-soaked songs, then Terakaft should be high up on your list. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Tamy's 'Caieira'

Tamy
Caieira
Zip Records

Bossa nova styles have graced the airwaves and stages around the world for decades, yet it continues to be a source of inspiration and creativity for artists of today. Tamy lives and breathes bossa nova and mixes it with subtle jazz, neo-classical, pop, and folk styles on her debut release. Fourteen tracks showcase Tamy's beautiful voice and instrumental arrangements. There are laid-back creations full of bossa nova flavor, such as "Serena," "Eu To Com Voce," "Te Esperei," "Caieira," "Me Diz," and a few others. The Portuguese-laced song lyrics are steeped in Brazilian traditions. The assorted percussion, light guitar work, delicate vocals, and breezy melodies take on a rather light-hearted release. However, there are some nods to African musical styles on "Mae Africa," as well as more upbeat pop and rock sounds on "Dava Pra Ver." Overall, there is something for everyone here. Fans of Brazilian music with a contemporary edge will find Tamy in their playlist quite often. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Ozere's 'Anyplace'

Ozere
Finding Anyplace
Self-Release

The Canadian folk-roots-group, Ozere, tackles beautiful melodies, breezy rhythms, and rootsy vocals with engaging instrumentals mixed in for added pleasure on their latest release, Finding Anyplace. This is mostly an original effort with only two songs attributed to other artists, such as "Wayfaring Stranger" and "MacArthur Road." The instrumental gem on the album, "Anyplace," weaves a tapestry of sonic sounds ranging from Celtic to Nordic and even the Middle East in a seamless fashion. However, the vocals are great on "Keeper" and "Someday Soon." Ozere does not fit into a specific genre very well, but anyone with a passion for folk, roots, neo-classical, new age, and world fusion will find love at first note with this one. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Jacob Davich's Self-Titled EP

Jacob Davich
Jacob Davich
Self-Release

A former actor turned musician, Jacob Davich releases a candid five-song EP. Jacob's folksy sing-songwriter guitar and vocals resemble the work of Jim Croce, James Taylor, and David Gray. "Don't Run Don't Hide" is a great roots-driven, folk-centric, and pop-infused medley of throbbing B3, jangly guitars, and swishy percussion. "Call My Name" is a slower, down-tempo ballad with folk and alt-country stylings. "Hold On" is another ballad with introspective lyrics and a jazzy or bluesy musical influence with piano backing and guitar accompaniment. "How You Gonna Tell Me" is a great folk-rock song with a hint of roots-driven qualities from American folk music of the 1960's and 70's. The Dylan cover, "I Shall Be Released," is a bluesy, almost gospel-driven medley of sound reflecting the music of the time that is equally-relevant today. All in all, there are four original tunes and one cover. If you are fans of the above-mentioned artists, you will definitely love Jacob Davich's new EP. Everyone else should pick it up. It's that good. 5 Stars (out of 5). ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Patricia Vonne's 'Viva Bandolera'

Patricia Vonne
Viva Bandolera
Bandolera Records

Patricia Vonne's emotive Latin folk and rock music takes on new heights with soaring vocals, multi-instrumental repertoires, and a pop-edge cement the deal with Viva Bandolera. Patricia's vocals are a blend of Lila Downs and Shakira throughout. The song structures are more varied than Shakira, but rooted in the Tejano, Latin-American rock and folk of Mexico's Lila Downs. Seventeen tracks in all. Patricia brings more than basic Tex-Mex fanfare here. In fact, there are swirling melodies and rhythms with passionate and evocative vocals representing a deep, Latin-American connection, as well as American pop and rock constructions. The Spanish songs are back by great instrumentation and arrangements that do not disappoint. Get it today! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Gao Hong and Friends' 'Pipa Potluck'

Gao Hong and Friends
Pipa Potluck
Innova

Pipa, a Chinese plucked lute, is the central component of the new album, Pipa Potluck, by Gao Hong and several guest musicians. This is where Asian folk meets American roots, bluegrass, and classical music. The instrumental album begins with a rousing bluegrass number, "Cluck Old Hen," which features the banjo of Alison Brown, the fiddle by Matt Combs, and bass by Garry West. "Friendship" is more of a contemplative Arabic concoction with oud, percussion, and of course, the pipa. The pipa and guitar complement each other quite nicely on the excellent "Golden Season." Likewise, the slack key guitar by George Kahumoku, Jr. and the pipa create another friendly and enjoyable medley on "Mosquito Song." The bluegrass and folk stylings come back on "Sally Johnson." The serene "Lutes Around The World" finishes the album with poignant strings and delightful melodies. Fans of strings, lutes, Chinese folk, neo-classical, new age, bluegrass, Arabic, folk, Americana, and world music in general will love to sample Pipa Potluck. Remember to leave room on your plate for additional listens! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Vishten's 'Terre Rouge'

Vishten
Terre Rouge
Les Editions Du Corfus

The folksy trio, Vishten, hails from Prince Edward Island, Canada, and thrill audiences everywhere with their unique blend of Francophone folk, fiddle tunes, ballads, and roots music. Some of the more instrumental tunes are quite suitable for dancing and foot-stomping, while the vocal tunes incorporate a little pop and roots for a truly French-Canadian or European-infused musical ride. Besides vocals, whistles, mandolins, piano, bodhran, jaw harp, guitar, accordion, and bass synth instruments fill in the repertoire. The rousing melodies are ideal for relaxing, dancing, and meditating upon the wondrous skills of Vishten. Fans of Heidi Talbot, Karine Polwart, Varttina, and fellow-countrywomen--Natalie MacMaster and April Verch--will find happiness in the tunes on Terre Rouge. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: David Correa's 'New Moon'

David Correa
New Moon
BajaTSR Records

David Correa is a very talented Spanish guitar player from California with a knack for flamenco, rumba, and folk song structures over a fifty-minute medley of heavenly sounds in an instrumental arrangement. However, "Tierra Roja" is the only track with vocals, which are provided by David himself. The tunes are not just Spanish guitar tunes--they are complex creations of musical delight backed by a slew of instruments, including bass, palmas, drums, congas, bongo, cajon, darbuka, udu, timbale, violin, and other acoustic guitars. The Spanish guitar is the lead instrument on this album. The melodies ebb-and-flow with a calming influence throughout. The plaintive, yet up-beat musical tone is refreshing and relaxing. Fans of Matthew Montfort and Lawson Rollins will love David Correa's latest venture. ~ Matthew Forss

Song Reviews: Alpine Camp's ''Regrets of A Cosmic Mountaineer" and "Seven Miles"

The Alpine Camp
Songs: "Regrets of A Cosmic Mountaineer" and "Seven Miles"
Self-Release

The Alpine Camp is a musical duo that comprises the work of Chris Bell and Charles Etienne. Chris is the primary guitarist and vocalist, while Charles is a pianist and vocalist. The duo brings in Jeff Stella on bass, Shad Wilhelm on drums, Bob Hamilton on banjo, and Jamison Hollister on lap steel. "Regrets of a Cosmic Mountaineer" opens with whining lap steel, uppity piano  melodies, rootsy percussion, and old-time folk elements wrapped around a catchy chorus with fast vocals and banjo stylings caught amid a roots and rock vein. The sub-three-minute track ends with a repetitive vocal line and guitar arrangement in a folksy context without any issues. "Seven Miles"  opens with a contemplative banjo tune with down-tempo drums and percussion amid jazz-standard and blues vocals in a classic R&B set-up. This seems to be executed in a very classic manner with a big nod to Americana tunes coming out in the 1960's and 70's. Though, as a completely original song, it stands alone with a complex categorization somewhere between folk, roots, rock, jazz, blues, and pop standard styles. The diverse stylings are still commendable and enjoyable throughout the above-mentioned tracks. 5 stars (out of 5). ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Newpoli's 'Nun Te Vuta'

Newpoli
Nun Te Vuta
Rotary Records

Italy's Newpoli group brings us a swirling mix of tunes that are definitely vibrant and showy with lush melodies and rhythms, along with fanciful vocal displays. The instrumental repertoire is rich with mandola, guitars, accordion, bass, strings, oud, drums, and wind instruments. The minstrel-like melodies and playfulness to the songs represents a historical presence in a contemporary world. The vocals lead the tunes at times, but the instruments are the stand-out here. Anyone interested in folk music, world music, Italian roots, ensemble, neo-classical music, and Renaissance-type music will find happiness throughout the tunes of Nun Te Vuta. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Beautiful Nubia and The Roots Renaissance Band's 'Soundbender'

Beautiful Nubia and The Roots Renaissance Band
Soundbender
EniObanke

Beautiful Nubia is Segun Akinlolu, a Nigerian folk and roots musician that bridges together lilting reggae-like grooves with Afro-soul and Afro-pop melodies. The mix of Yoruba and English lyrics provides a truly world music result with magnificent percussion, strings, and contemporary beats throughout. There are beautiful melodies and rhythms that highlight both Beautiful Nubia's voice and the instrumental backing. Every track is diverse, but very engaging and catchy. The backup vocals are sparse, but appropriate where added. The jazzy, somewhat neo-classical strings adds a nostalgic, European musical presence, while hanging onto African roots and influences. Anyone with an interest in contemporary African grooves and roots music will love Soundbender. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Le Vent Du Nord's 'Tetu'

Le Vent Du Nord
Tetu
Borealis Records

Quebecois-origins aside, Le Vent Du Nord is a magnificient folk music group with hearty strings, thought-provoking vocals, intense melodies, raw hurdy-gurdy sounds, and other elements that are likable and timeless. There are instrumental and vocal medleys throughout. The instrumental and bouncy, "Cardeuse-Riopel," is an excellent example of piano, fiddle, accordion, and other instruments coming together in a harmonic fashion. The folksy roots and earthy feel to the album stems from the talented cast of musicians, including Nicolas Boulerice, Olivier Demers, Rejean Brunet, and Simon Beaudry. Fifteen tracks round out the album. Some of the songs are under two-minutes, but a majority of the songs are two to five-minutes long. There is a classical quality to the music, but there is a strong Quebecois element highlighting the best of French-Canadian folk music. Start off on the right foot with Le Vent Du Nord. ~ 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