2012-02-02
The Sultans of String are four Canadian string players (violin, two guitarists, bass) of diverse cultures with a Cuban percussionist keeping the beat. The band plays a global jazz gumbo that's part flamenco, gypsy, Celtic and swing. All are instrumentals, except the cover of fellow Canadian Neil Young's "Heart of Gold" (the female duo Dala handles the vocals) and the original "To You," a rumba-jazz number. This is a highly-skilled ensemble and the variety of their ethnic origins gives the record a refreshing diversity of approaches from song to song--Spain, Native Canada, Lebanon, Cuba, Brazil. The final tune, "Nacimiento," about the journey of pregnancy and birth, features the sounds of a baby's heartbeat. 02/12 Michael J. J-Global FusionTHE BAD PLUS
For All I Care
The Yohimbe Brothers
The Tao of Yo
Catherine Russell
Cat
DIGITAL PRIMITIVES
Hum, Crackle, and Pop
JACK DEJONETTE AND BILL FRISELL
The Elephant Sleeps But Still Remembers
DENNIS ROLLINS VELOCITY TRIO
The 11th Gate
The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.