New Reviews: June 27, 2001
Valis
Psychic Enemies Network
John and Matt Thorne are the soul masterminds behind the Psychic Enemies
Network. The Psychic Enemies Network produces strictly ambient music that
also fits into the space music genre. Several metallic and glass objects
are used to create haunting, ambient soundscapes that are void of any kind
of traditional melodic arrangements. Metallic and electronic drones and
pings, muted voices and radio blips augment the eerie, but expansive sounds. However, a few ethnic instruments can be heard with some degree of
audibility, including the doumbek, djembe, steel pan and balalaika. All in
all, Valis is a good recording of experimental ambient music. Valis is
recommended for world music fans looking for something new. Similar artists
include, Steve Roach and Robert Rich.
Montevideo Dos
Ruben Rada
Big World Music
Vocalists Ruben Rada and Hugo Fattoruso presents contemporary candombe music
from Montevideo, Uruguay. Drums, Bass, keyboards, acoustic guitar, piano,
horn arrangements and South American percussion represents typical
instruments used on this recording. One of the many musical highlights on
Montevideo Dos, comes from a truly beautiful instrumental/vocal track titled
"Cancion Para Enamorar Veteranas." Jazz and blues-based compositions
incorporated with traditional percussion, and the addition of unique vocals
creates an enjoyable listening experience for fans of contemporary
Brazilian/Uruguayan jazz music. Highly recommended.
Unpolished
Midnite
Rastafaria
Midnite is a reggae music quintet that originates from the Virgin Islands.
Musically, Midnite incorporates traditional reggae beats and grooves in the
typical staccato fashion. However, Midnite's strongest talents are
evidenced lyrically. Unpolished includes songs that deal with important
topics, such as politics, violence, spirituality, greed and hope in times of
utter despair. In the end, lead vocalist Vaughn Benjamin succeeds in
creating an album with positive lyrical messages. Fans of reggae music will
certainly enjoy Unpolished. Similar artists include Lucky Dube and Bob
Marley.
Reviews by Matthew J. Forss.
