brief reviews
ghurd@mcgraw-hill.com
Wed, 07 Aug 96 15:56:32 edt
In the spirit of everyone else who seem to be spending all their hard
earned dollars/pounds/yen/lire/francs/etc, I made a few purchases this
weekend. A word or two:
A Cup of Tea compilation: on a whim I picked this up, it was sort of a
gamble not having heard too much from this label. I had heard good
things so it is now in my collection and it is a good compilation. The
sounds range from slower tunes with nice beats to drum n bass
explorations. The first track (can't remember who did it) called "Love
Anybody" is my current favorite. Most of it sits well with me except
for the Monk and Cantella tunes. There's 4 or 5 of them and I can't
stand a single one of 'em. Indigestable vocals is the main crime being
committed. The rest of the album is worth checking out, though.
The new Tribe Called Quest is finally in my expectant hands. I'm
definitely pleased with it, though upon my first few listens I don't
think it's as strong of an album as The Low End Theory or Midnight
Marauders. There's at least one outstanding tune per side (double
vinyl is the shit). Even if I'm not 100% ecstatic about it, I'm still
happy to show my support to one of hip-hop's most consistent crews;
one with almost too much integrity for this business.
I also picked up Jazz Dance Classics vol. 3 in the used bin; but
that's an older release. Regardless, I'm happy to have it for the Gary
Bartz tune "Uhuru Sassa," (I think that's the title) and Cal Tjader's
version of "Ran Kan Kan." Two awe-inspiring tracks that I probably
wouldn't be able to afford if I saw the originals. Anyone have vol. 4?
How is it?
Anyway, that's enough rambling for now.
PS, fans of experimental sounds should look for the list's own Tim
Wagner's upcoming release, as the stellar Lunar Deep, on New Breed.
I've heard a tape of what'll be on his upcoming EP and it's quite
good--nutty samples, gritty and quirky rhythms--totally twisted shit.
I'll post a more detailed review at a later date.
-- Gordon (trying to look busy at work) Hurd