Rosario La Tremendita "Mi Alma Vuela En Silencio" A Tiempo...
Before making her first album, La Tremendita, waited for two things; that she was ready and that she had control. I, for one, am glad that she did. Rosario Guerrero Hernandez, relative of El Tremendo, one of flamenco's greatest performers, has been doing this since she was like 9 years old and at 26, I'd certainly call her ready. Not for a "break" in the music business, but for the respect that comes when one ascends to ones proper place. Judging from what's on this album, that place is right up there with the greats of modern flamenco. If you've any doubt, just listen...
Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra "Put Leg To Road" Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra
The Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra formed in late 2007 when members of the Kidkanevil live show and First Word stalwarts Homecut began a series of late night afrobeat sessions at a bar in Leeds, UK. It was out of these jam sessions that The Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra was born out of a shared love of afrobeat with an equal appreciation of the space jazz pioneers of the 70’s and the free jazz trailblazers of the 60’s; well that, plus a hefty nod towards James Brown as channeled through Fela. The Album is a solid plus and well recommended to lovers of afrobeat.
Zinja Hlungwani "N'wagezani" Shangaan Electro: New Wave Dance Music from South Africa
This stuff has really gotten me excited. A brand new sound out of South Africa that rolls fast. New wave electro indeed, this stuff manages to be folksy, soulful and fun too. Apparently, this new sound was birthed by pioneering producer "Richard," who makes the music for the dancers, explaining why the music is so fast. Often rolling along at about 180 bpm, this music is made for a dance so fast that the dancer seem to be boneless. Richard likens it to Zulu dancing but with bit more "style" inside the music. By style, we can hear the bits in the mix that make this so potent; 80's electro, R&B, disco and soul all merge in this very poppy, fun music. Lovin' it! Let's hope Honest Jon's keeps 'em coming.
Earl 16 "The Fittest" Collie Weed Showcase EP
This is one of my favorite roots cuts from 2010, not the least reason for this being Earl 16. The riddim is the Cultural Roots Riddim, for which several great sides have been cut. Chezidek, Wild Life and other have all niced this riddim up with a version, but Earl 16, one of the finest roots singers alive kills it with his version. Earl 16 has been singing since the 70's but has only relatively recently caught on as a major talent, with his debut cd coming out in the 90's and blossoming over the past few years on a slew of singles and new work. I call him classic, but the story is still being written, this cut is just another chapter...