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Yearly Archives: 2010
Build An Ark: Love Pt.1 [Kindred Spirits]
When you listen to the music of Build An Ark, you are truly convinced that music can inspire those who are in need of spiritual healing. It is their mission to spread peace and unity through the music. It is because of tragic events such as the Rodney King beating and riots that took place in band leader Carlos Nino’s hometown of Los Angeles and 9/11 that moved him to deliver the fantastic “Peace with every step” and that follow that one up with “Dawn”. As impressive as those releases were “Love Pt. 1” is without a doubt their best yet. Carlos and the ensemble blend elements of 60’s soul, jazz and even a little folk that captures the spirit of John Coltrane’s latter work, as well as Pharoah Sanders and Joni Mitchell. One of the many reasons that make this record so enjoyable is the musical arrangements are a thing of beauty, considering that the collective membership has grown to more than 40. As a result the live instrumentation reaches symphony proportions. It doesn’t hurt that most of the songs were recorded live and it evident upon the first listen. There are many songs here to savor but standouts include “Celebrate”, featuring long time contributor and baritone vocalist Dwight Trible. “Sunflowers in my Garden” is simply a beautiful tune is written and sung by Waberi Jordan . Waberi, whose voice may remind you of Roberta Flack brings tenderness to this serene recording. Another long time contributor is Miquel Atwood-Ferguson and on “World Peace Now” he sits in the piano chair, provides Flute arrangements as well as playing the violin and Viola to this warm and peaceful instrumental. If you’re spirits aren’t lifted after listening to “Love” check your pulse. This is one record you shouldn’t miss.
DJ Bootsie: Holidays in the Shade [BBE Records]
On his second full length release, DJ Bootsie taps into his Hungarian roots and delivers an impressive album steeped with cinematic soundscapes with classical and folk influences. One listen and it’s clear that Bootsie is adept at creating beats for hip-hop heads as well as composing potential film scores. Among the standouts is the haunting “Lieutenant Chrome”. “Ballad of the Space Ship Rigger Pt.1”, complete with searing electric guitar riffs is another banger. “Neil And Vincent” is a peaceful atmospheric down-tempo gem. As impressive as Bootsie’s debut “The Silent Partner” was, this new release has a bolder and more refined sound. This should be the record that propels Bootsie to the recognition his talents deserve.
Doom: Born Like This [Lex Records]
Hip Hop’s favorite villain returns with his first solo project since 2004’s “MM..Food?”. “Born like This” doesn’t quite measure up to “Food” but there are several standout tracks that are well worth checking out. Highlights include “Gazillian Ear” where Doom’s unconventional rhyme style combined with his abstract production makes this one a clear cut winner. “Yessir” is also impressive, thanks in part to special guest Raekwon, whose dense delivery is the complement to Doom’s gritty beats. “Still Dope feat. Empress Sharhh” is another banger and further proof why many respected rappers yearn to lay down rhymes to a Doom produced track. If you’ve been a supporter of Doom’s work over the years then you’ll no doubt enjoy this release. For those who tire of watered down hip-hop, prepare to be enlightened to Doom’s dark tales and you’ll see why he’s one of the most respected underground rapper/producer on the scene today.
Martyn: Great Lengths [3024]
The long awaited full length release from DJ/Producer Martyn is everything we expected and more. Martyn has arranged an splendid array of electronic compositions steeped in dance, techno and dub step that you will find it irresistible not to move. One of those tracks is the lead song “The Only Choice”, a pulsating track filled with catchy synths and percussion. “These Words” is a techno flavored drum n bass burner enhanced by the warm vocals of D Brdige. “Elden St” is easily my favorite track here, a dense hypnotic house gem with an infectious groove that is reminiscent of the early Detroit sound made famous by Kevin Saunderson, Derrick May and Juan Atkins. Martyn is becoming a household name in the world of electronic dance music and with this new release it’s easy to see why. He never relies on one style and keeps things interesting throughout. You owe it yourself to check this one out.
Shapeshifter: Soulstice [Inertia Records]
On their fourth album, the New Zealand based band continues to build on their unique brand of alternative drum n bass music. “Soulstice” combines elements of soul, dub step and folk to create their most ambitious project yet. The disc kicks off “New Day Come”, an energetic track that is enhanced by the melody from the Norman Connors classic “You are my starship”. “In The Rain” starts out as an acoustic gem that simmers, thanks in part to the vocals of Ladi6. “One” is a blissful track with uplifting lyrics and a gorgeous piano loop. You can’t help but feel good after listening to this one, thanks in part to the vocals of Paora Apera (aka P Digsss). “Soulstice” is an enjoyable record that will have you listening to drum n bass in a different light. This is groundbreaking work that should propel this group to greater heights.