by Seamus Fitzpatrick Texan-Peruvian vocalist Ermelinda Cuellar explores rich musical intersections in her new project, Under a Lavender Sky, arranged by Horace Alexander Young. Backed by a talented Houston-based ensemble. Cuellar offers a ten-song album that blends Afro-Peruvian authenticity with Latin jazz, yielding a world music sound of interest. In “Poinciana,” Cuellar channels stylistic echoes … Read more
Dharma Down, Owl Dreams Review by Steph Cosme Dharma Down’s Owl Dreams invites listeners on a journey across cultures and centuries, melding the improvisational spirit of Middle Eastern traditions with modern jazz. This debut album celebrates cross-cultural musical influences, where maqam scales meet jazz harmonies and ancient folk traditions are given a contemporary voice. The result … Read more
Thandiswa Mazwai, Sankofa Review by Seamus Fitzpatrick Thandiswa Mazwai, a revered figure in South African music, returns with Sankofa, a hauntingly reflective exploration of her nation’s history and present-day struggles. Released in August 2024, the album arrives at a pivotal moment of national introspection, offering a poignant and timely artistic statement. Building on her legacy of … Read more
The Zawose Queens, Maisha Review by Seamus Fitzpatrick In the music of The Zawose Queens, one feels the spirit and fire of a long lineage, with the vibrations of their ancestors echoing through every note played and sung. Their debut album, Maisha, is a vibrant representation of the power and richness of East African musical traditions, … Read more
Nai-Jah, Democrazy Review by Seamus Fitzpatrick With a mix of today’s sounds and traditional reggae, Nai-Jah brings us his evolving landscape, Democrazy, released on May 17, 2024, under the Khanti Music label. The thirteen-song play reflects his unique ability to merge the richness of African and Western styles into a cohesive and captivating musical journey. … Read more
MAC GOLLEHON & THE HISPANIC MECHANICS, Bite of the Street Review Released on September 29, 2023, Bite of the Street intricately weaves together a rich tapestry of genres—from fiery Latin rhythms and the intricate polyrhythms of world music to the sophisticated harmonies of jazz and the bold textures of progressive rock, all underpinned by pulsating electronic beats. … Read more
Nancy Vieira, Gente Review Nancy Vieira’s Gente is a evocative and soul-stirring musical homage to her Cape Verdean heritage and the interconnectedness of global cultures, brought to life by storytelling through song. Vieira, with her crystalline voice and profound artistry, invites us on a journey that traverses the vibrant landscapes of Cape Verde, the bustling … Read more
AurallaurA, Exetastes Review Under her artistic moniker AurallaurA, Laura Chu Wiens has crafted an eclectic and ambitious auditory journey with her project Exetastes. The eleven songs are a cohesive world sound with influences ranging from jazz to rock music. The album stands out for its musical diversity and exploration of identity, belonging, and the human experience … Read more
Esperanza Spalding, Não Ao Marco Temporal Review Esperanza Spalding’s “Não Ao Marco Temporal” is a single that weaves together the threads of Brazilian musical traditions, vocal excellence, and a deeply rooted message of environmental and social justice. From the first note, “Não Ao Marco Temporal” transports listeners into the heart of Brazil, where the battle … Read more
Miguel Espinoza Fusion, Gabriella Review In the illustrious amalgamation of world music fusion, Miguel Espinoza Fusion’s latest offering, Gabriella, emerges as a paragon of musical ingenuity and emotional resonance. As a fusion of flamenco, classical, Celtic, Afro-Cuban, and jazz, this album, released on September 22, 2023, transcends styles to provide an experience, becoming a global conversation … Read more