The Paradise Bangkok Molam International

21st Century Molam

2015-03-24

The influence for the debut album by The Paradise Molam International Band ranges from traditional Laos style to blues and funk in this 12-track release from the 5-piece Thailand-based group. The entirely instrumental record features heavy use of both the khaen and phin (a mouth organ and lute, respectively), instruments originating from Laos folk music dating back to the 18th century. While the composition is rooted deeply in traditionalism, the electric bass and drum kit add a layer of modernism to the dancey, groovy licks, and combine new and old in harmony. Sawai Kaewsombat, seasoned master of the khaen, and Kammao Perdtanon, an expert phin player, lead their jiving band proudly through 21st Century Molam.

review by Ben