Juno Recommends International: May 2024

Review: Melbourne-based trio Glass Beams share their debut record Mahal, the highly anticipated album to follow 2021's incipient 'Mirage' EP. Fronted by founding member Rajan Silva, the Glass Beams project revolves around the central theme of fatherly childhood memories, bestowed unto Silva by way of a cultural inheritance reflective of both Melbourne and India. After Silva attended the legendary Royal Albert Hall concert by George Harrison in collaboration with Ravi Shankar, he was away; nothing was the same, as a cascade of South Asian psychedelia and desert funk spewed forth; added to which, Mahal is the most recent piece of invaluable flotsam.

Review: One of several new Krafty Kuts edits to fly through the floodgates of late, this 7" amounts to the whopping 28th edition of the esteemed Friday's Funky series. This time hearing the editors handle and reappropriate a swathe of obscure Latin music samples, of lord knows what origin, 'Colombia' amounts to a slick two-toner backed by brass riffs and samples rap interjections. B-side 'Brujeria' is of a similar quality and verve.

Review: New to Soundway Records comes this second edition of Ghana Special, a comprehensive compilation of '80s Ghanaian-diasporic highlife and its embrace of synthesiser and new wave elements. 20 years on from the first compilation in the series, which was released in 2009 and focused on modern and contemporary forms of highlife, this second volume focuses more on tracing the development of the sound as it took on increasingly synthetic forms. The scheme of things goes something like this: drum machines and synthesisers appeared alongside lilting guitar lines and punchy horns, and Ghanaian musicians began incorporating US disco and boogie, r&b, European new wave, and Caribbean zouk and soca into their music. A kind of socioeconomic history lesson conjoins this musicology: the eighties saw unrestricted migration policies in Western nations in the postcolonial era, which enabled new crossover industries to flourish. Thus the music you hear on this compilation was born, and thrived, and continues to thrive.

Review: Sol Power Sound is back in a big way with a reissue and remix EP from the legendary Nigerian Ju-Ju king, Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey. The double A-side EP features 'Eyi Yato', a tune from 1981, that captures Chief Commander and his band at their absolute funkiest. It's as if there's something in the name itself - 'Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey' - that commands an almost godlike, daresay tyrannical command over each conjunctive performance here; every one of the All-Stars' parts play back as though they've puppeteered to an autocratic degree, resulting in a funky tightness that only obedience to the most just of authorities can muster. The original, with its boinging jews' harps and wahhing guitars, is the patent highlight; but we're sure you'll be no less pleased to learn of the (double-time! dub disco!) Mad Professor flip (...!) that's on there too (winky face).

Review: Various cumbia compilations are jostling for the limelight at present, but perhaps one of the headsier ones to potentially divert your attention is this latest from Rocafort. This time diving into the Discos Tropical Records vaults, the label bring together a compelling six-track array of Latin fruits, with songs from Pacho Galan Y Su Orquesta, Cuarteto Del Monaco and Andres Landero Y Su Conjunto all in tow. The second of the Cumbia Sabrosa series, these are readymade, tailored soundsystem bangers, doing thorough justice to the woofers despite their now vintage rust n' dust.

Review: Thr33-Thirty Seven Records is the vinyl-only issue of Aussie label Groovescooter, delivering rare, nigh mythical unicorns of the Latin funk-jazz variety, largely on 12". Now welcoming back polyrhythmic electronic music trio Oyobi to the roster with a fresh 7" with two tracks detailed, we're bowled over by this slice of true newness from the lifers. First up is a jubilant buzzer shared with Colombia's finest, pico sound system legend Kaiman Jimenez; 'The Bottle / El Trago' pairs crisp hatwork with two-stepping syncopations and mettalic additions. On the B-side comes an alternate version with Karen Lee Andrews reinterpreting the vox in English, which to us lime-juicers reveals a pensive take on alcoholism. No reason to not get up and dance, though!

Review: Spanish label Vampi Soul continues to bring you off-centre party starters with a global outlook, this time looking to Peruvian cumbia legend Carlos Pickling and his orchestra. Pickling's fabled organ skills take centre stage on this pair of tracks, originally published in the 1960s on MAG but never available on a 45 before now. Whether you're a seasoned cumbia digger or just someone who appreciates infectious, vibrant grooves, this is a record with universal appeal timed perfectly for the sunnier months.

Review: Fresh, fabulous and funky reissued trax sourced from the collective mind of the historic group Goma Laca, first released a hell of a long time ago sometime in the indeterminate period between 1920 (!) and 1950 on the Goma-Laca label. Now reissued by Jazz Room, 'Cala Baca Menino' and its counterparts 'Ogum' are two stonking Afrobrasilidades, flaunting the effortless vocals of Russo Passapusso and Jucara Marcal, not to mention the quick double-bass and piano caresses of Marco Paiva and Hercules Gomes respectively, plus Sergio Machado on drums and Gabi Guedes on percussion. Under the direction of Letieres, the group produced many records such as this: jazzy arrangements over Afro-Bahian rhythms, with everything recorded live at Estudio Traquitana, Sao Paulo.

Review: Progressive quartet Combo Chimbita launches their own label with a psychedelic-infused track merging dub reggae's rootsiness with cumbia's guacharo and chicha-influenced guitar. 'Margarita' and its dub counterpart 'Nene' form a lush duo that marks a new phase in Combo Chimbita's evolving sound. After honing their act from an improvisational collective to a captivating ensemble, they entered a period of introspection and experimentation and sought guidance from producer Victor Axelrod, aka Ticklah. With a focus on their Colombian roots, they fused traditional elements with reggae nuances, exploring themes of displacement and identity. This release symbolises their journey.

Review: Tidiane Thiam's Africa Yontii speaks volumes beyond its melodic notes, conveying a powerful message of change and empowerment for Africa. Thiam's expressive guitar work serves as his voice, articulating the need for African agency and self-determination. Born in the Senegalese town of Podor, Thiam's compositions draw from his deep roots in Pulaar folk music, enriched by collaborations with hip-hop producer Ndiaye Moctar. In this album, Thiam addresses pressing issues facing Africa's youth and reflects on the challenges of leaving loved ones behind in pursuit of a brighter future. Despite grappling with heavy themes, his music radiates with love for his homeland and heritage. Africa Yontii boldly reclaims the narrative of "world music," placing African voices and perspectives at the forefront. Through soulful melodies and poignant lyrics, Thiam beckons Africa to seize its destiny and usher in a new era of change and progress.

Review: While Soundway's first Ghana Special compilation, released back in 2009, focused on the evolution of highlife and associated styles between 1968 and '81, this belated sequel showcases what happened in the 15 years that followed. Drawing on music made by the Ghanaian diaspora as well as music recorded and released back home, it charts the rise of electronic instrumentation (synths and drum machines specifically) as well as successful efforts to fuse highlife with elements of disco, boogie, new wave, Zouk, electro and digital reggae. It's a superb collection all told, packed to the rafters with killer cross-cultural fusions topped off by the expressive vocals and glistening guitar lines of highlife and Afrobeat.

Review: Liraz's latest release Enerjy is a potent fusion of cultural activism and musical prowess. With four tracks sung in Farsi, she ignites a musical revolution in the Middle Eastern landscape. Collaborating with Uri Brauner Kinrot, the album pulsates with raw energy and a fervent call for global harmony. Liraz's vocals exude passion and purpose, serving as a conduit for positivity and light in tumultuous times. Enerjy is not just a collection of songs; it's a bold statement of resilience and hope, highlighting Liraz's unwavering commitment to bridging cultural divides through the power of music.

Review: Craft Recordings get back on their curatorially expert business with this serious new reissue from Fania All Stars, the long out-of-print Latin-Soul-Rock. This eight-track gem from the 70s salsa ultragroup (literally; FAS consisted of over 25 members at the height of its fame), released via their own label in 1974, documents the moment at which over 40,000 salsa punters visited New York's Yankee Stadium to catch a glimpse of their talents, alongside a myriad of other Latin greats. Fania All Stars threw a curveball, however, by not only playing pure salsa but blending it with styles like funk and soul, thus sticking out from the crowd and adding a spicier punch. We welcome this record, out via Craft Latino, with alacrity, as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of this 'wow' moment, which deserves to be documented even if solely for its powers of FAS' fusional imagination.

Review: Ravi Shankar is often cited as one of the most famous and influential sitar players in the world and none of his albums do quite as much justice to that claim than Shankar Family & Friends, first released in 1974. Unlike many of his former albums, this LP places a front-and-centre focus on Shankar's family members, with whom he collaborates throughout the album. Though, that's not to say it doesn't also come with commercial draws - indeed, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Billy Preston and Tom Scott also make cameo appearances. For all its humble harkenings-back to familial source, Shankar does not hesitate to fuse his own ancestral Indian classical music with the Western pop and jazz elements of his friends. The likes of 'I Am Missing You' and 'Jaya Jagadish Hare' are nonetheless utter dreamscapes, and thanks to this reissue via the Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab series, this version comes as the highest-quality version of the record yet.

Review: The enigmatic release from Nilton Castro offers a fantastic journey into Afro-Brazilian rhythms and expressive musical landscapes. Recorded possibly in the 70s and released in the early 90s, its origins remain shrouded in mystery, adding to its allure. Originally crafted to accompany contemporary dance classes, the album showcases Castro's percussion expertise, enhanced by moments of choir, flute, and keys/metallophone. The standout track, 'Ondes (Les Vagues),' has intrigued collectors for years with its harmonious crescendos and subtle percussion, creating an immersive sonic experience. Remastered and reissued with its original artwork, the album embodies unadulterated musical expression, reflecting Castro's artistic vision and timeless charm. Listening to this release is akin to embarking on a journey of blissful discovery, where each track unveils layers of intricate rhythms and ethereal beauty.

Review: Mampon unleash their latest Afrobeat enchantment on a new 7" release. 'Si Algun Dia Has De Caer' is a clean, bouncing neo-Afrobeat whirlwind, combining the infectious vocals of Spanish singer Hector Rodriguez with a dynamic backup production that is as irresistible as it is ineluctable. The B-side pares back the dance and pierces the political veil, with a Spanish-language plea to listeners to carve out their own paths in life, regardless of cost.

Review: Sababa 5's latest release, featuring tracks 'Bezani' and 'Ashkamoni' on Batov Records, reaffirms their position as pioneers in Middle Eastern psychedelic grooves. With a discography boasting two albums, an EP with vocalist Shiran Tzfira, and several highly sought-after 45s, Sababa 5 continue to push boundaries in the global grooves scene. 'Bezani' takes listeners on a captivating sonic journey, blending electric synths and percussion-driven rhythms in a mesmerizing fusion of early electronic sounds and Persian folk influences. The track's 6/8 rhythm creates an immersive atmosphere that defies traditional genre categorisation. On 'Ashkamoni,' Sababa 5 showcases their versatility with a rockier edge, infused with a rocksteady swing. The dynamic melody builds tension, while enthralling solos from the lead guitar and synth highlight the band's exceptional musical talent. Drawing from their collective experience supporting various international artists, Sababa 5 delivers a tight sound that seamlessly merges diverse musical elements.

Review: Vampisoul have always been loyal purveyors of Latin cumbia music, but no release so far has documented their love for the genre with quite so much commitment and dedication as their latest, Cumbia Cumbia Cumbia! This selection of 24 Colombian cumbia bangers is made up entirely of deep hauls salvaged from the deep-sea doomsday vault that is Discos Fuentes, the best remembered label of the golden age of the genre. Highlights from Combo Sampuesano, Lucho Campillo, Los Candelosos and Rodolfo Aicardi Y Su Tipica Ra7 make for a thoroughgoing, raw OG's cumbia favourite, with all tracks naturally carrying that original Fuentes flair and authenticity that could have only come from the genre's '60s and '70s heyday.

Review: Ajate's third album, Dala Toni, is a vibrant fusion of Afro groove and Japanese traditional Ohayashi music, showcasing the band's innovative approach to blending diverse musical traditions. Founded by Japanese musician Junichiro "John" Imaeda after a revelatory experience in West Africa, Ajate brings together ten passionate musicians to create music that transcends cultural boundaries. Utilizing a mix of traditional instruments like drums, flutes, and bells, as well as handmade bamboo instruments crafted by Imaeda himself, such as the unique 'Jaate' and 'Piechiku,' Ajate's sound is both powerful and distinctive. Their incorporation of Afrobeat rhythms and Japanese vocals adds further depth and richness to their music, reflecting themes of human connection, unity, and the joy of life.Having gained acclaim for their explosive live performances in Japan and beyond, including appearances at prestigious festivals like Sukiyaki Meets The World and WOMAD UK, Ajate's music resonates with audiences worldwide. With Dala Toni, they continue to push the boundaries of global music, solidifying their position as pioneers of the genre "made in Japan."

Review: The unearthing of Orquesta La Solvencia's sole album epitomises El Palmas label's mission to preserve Venezuela's salsa heritage by reviving the bold, authentic music that laid the foundations of the genre. Originally released by Corpodisco in 1980, this record featured guaguanco, guaracha, son, and merengue, pre-dating the definitive salsa label. According to Felipe Diaz, La Solvencia's lead singer, numerous orchestras of this kind thrived in Venezuela to entertain communities during patron saint festivities. La Solvencia's irresistible grooves, coupled with lyrics portraying everyday life, endeared them to the Venezuelan salsa aficionados, and us.

Review: Rubel's As Palavras, Vol. 1 & 2 emerges as a transformative force in the MPB genre, blending contemporary flair with Brazil's rich musical heritage. With 20 tracks spanning traditional styles like forro and samba to modern baile funk and hip-hop, the album exudes freedom and creativity. Collaborations with esteemed artists like Liniker and Luedji Luna weave themes of love, heartbreak, and discovery with reflections on violence, passion, and irony. From the grand choral opener 'Forro Violento' to the funk-infused brilliance of 'Nao Vou Reclamar de Deus,' Rubel's storytelling prowess shines. Tracks like 'Torto Arado' and 'Na Mao do Palhaco' delve into societal issues with depth and satire, while intimate moments with Bala Desejo and Milton Nascimento add depth. As Palavras, Vol. 1 & 2 is a celebration of unity, bridging genres and generations with rhythms and words that define Brazil's cultural landscape.

Review: Malik Adouane is a singer who emerged as part of the so-called rai scene but after finding great success decided to evolve his sound and come up with a concept he called "after rai" which mixed up the traditional sounds of Arabic melodies with his own fresh and future-facing visions that you might consider to be 'Arabeat'. The album lays bare his musical vision and includes a highlight in the form of his superb cover of Isaac Hayes' 'Shaft' which cannot fail to get you dancing. This great fusion of Middle Eastern sounds with modern electronic beats is a beguiling one that will get you up and moving in no time.