SOMI

If the Rains Come First

2009-12-18

Ugandan jazz vocalist Somi enlists other African musicians (including famous South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela) to develop a set of jazz-meets-African rhythms that at times brings memories of Paul Simon's "Rhythm of the Saints" or the releases by songstress Sade. Great phrasing, lyrics (bith Ugandan and English) evoking scenes from Africa, yet messages that connect to life here in these United States. "Hot Blue" gets things started in a sultry manner; "Prayer to the Saint" and "Kuzunguka" provide the most upbeat of the tempos. Inventive merger of jazz and world from a young talent. Michael J. 12/09 J-Afrobeat

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 09/2008

    MATT BELSANTE
    – Blame it on My Youth

  • reviewed 07/2004

    River Rogues Jazz Band
    From Fats to Satch

  • reviewed 09/2017

    Brian Hudson
    Next Level

  • reviewed 12/2005

    VARIOUS ARTISTS
    Our New Orleans

  • reviewed 06/2006

    Dr. John
    Mercernary

  • reviewed 04/2008

    VICTOR WOOTEN
    PALMYSTERY

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

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.