I’ve spotlighted the work of America’s Naya Rockers previously, and their “Long Way Down” gives me another reason to do so. It’s a melodic but…
A Word to the Unwise
Category: Single reviews
Reviews of single recordings
Can’t Stop This
Jstop Latin Soul is a Virginia-based band that delivers on their name with a just the right amount of sizzling Afro-Cuban rhythms, full-blooded solos, layered…
Kora to the Core
American kora players aren’t exactly commonplace, so the work of Kane Mathis is not only noteworthy for his individuality, but for his expertise. He leads…
Atypical Brazil
Brazil’s Dude São Thiago harnesses layered percussion, jangly piano, nimble vocals and quirky production touches to make “Mitiê” an attention grabber that succeeds from both…
Marvelous “Mazel Mazel”
Combining the traditional Amazigh music of her native Algeria with global influences gleaned in her adopted homeland of France, Syna Awel’s “Mazel Mazel” is a…
You go, Togo
A mix of jazz, traditional rhythm and chant from the West African nation of Togo and some particularly expressive trombone playing,”Noussin” by a band called…
Daggy Style
A combination of dub reggae and synthesized chill, “Zion Meditation” by Japan’s Daggy Busker is indeed a meditative, and well-crafted, wall of sounds. (I have…
Duduk Maestro Sar Kamler Presents “Ode To Seasons”
An Armenian based in Canada, Sar Kamler is a master of the duduk, the apricot wood reed instrument that has long provided the signature sound…
Where is the Mr. Bartender? Asks Mr. Hammer
Sure, reggae music is usually at its best when it’s full of spiritually or socially conscious attitude, but putting some fun into it is no…
Forward-Thinking Reggae by Sister Nancy and Naya Rockers
Veteran reggae chanter Sister Nancy brings the right sort of common-sense wisdom to “Teach The Youths,” a musical lesson by America’s Naya Rockers. The message…