Album Reviews

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:

all reviews | all jazz reviews

More reviews tagged #Jazz

reviewed 11/2003
MeShell NdegeOcello
Comfort Woman
reviewed 08/2006
Rykarda Parasol
Our Hearts First Meet
reviewed 02/2005
Bryan Vargas & ¡Ya Esta!
Afro Latino Soul
reviewed 12/2011
PETE CHRISTLIEB & HADLEY CALIMAN
Reunion
reviewed 05/2007
KURT ELLING
Nightmoves
reviewed 02/2017
Milwaukee Jazz Orchestra
Welcome To Swingville

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.