BONGA KWENDA (N'Gola) - Semba
Afro-Pop superstar who has made 17 albums in 28 years. A clever and multi-level lyricist and social critic of the highest order with a hauntingly sweet gravelly voice unlike any other. First came to prominence as a track star, then a Fûtbol star, in both Europa and Africa. A hero in the struggle for independence in N'Gola and a voice of conscience for the world.
As Natasha Stovell observed in the San Francisco Chronicle: "...Bonga's scratchy, soulful voice fills the music with meaning."
For fans of: Cesaria Evora; Onda Sonora: Red Hot & Lisboa; The Mendez Brothers.
COOL BREEZE™ (Pan-Caribbean) - New Orleans Tropical
20-piece World Music pioneers who have spent 22 years on the cutting edge. They celebrate the commonality between New Orlenas, Caribbean, Latin, and African musics. A classic male vocal quintet, a powerful six-piece horn section, and a lush nine-piece rhythm /percussion section. Infectious melodies and vivid lyrics with the type of wry observation of contemporary life present in only the best music in the world. As anyone from the tropics can attest, a Cool Breeze™ is always welcome.
As Tom Cheyney in The BEAT Magazine noted: "Few other globally-influenced bands have blazed such a progressive path (as) tropical big-band COOL BREEZE™."
For fans of: Cubanisimo (Mardi Gras Mambo); Wild Tchoupatoulas; Juan Luis Guerra; Kassav.
HUX BROWN (Jamaica) - Reggae
THE master guitarist from Jamaica. Developed the "dead-string" style of lead guitar playing which continues to be immitated by virtually every Jamaican guitarist to follow him. He lead the studio band for the legendary Leslie Kong at Beverly's Studio in Kingston, which produced most of the hit recordings from Jamaica in the '60s and '70s, including many with Bob Marley. Guitarist and bandleader from Toots & the Maytals. He was featured as the studio bandleader in the film "The Harder They Come" and on the soundtrack, playing lead guitar on all songs. Played lead guitar and led the studio band on Paul Simon's "Mother and Child Reunion". Also featured as bandleader and guitarist on several Herbie Mann albums, and is a bandmember of Cool Breeze™.
For fans of: Ernest Ranglin; Monty Alexander; Rico Rodriguez.
JUNGULAR GROOVES™ (Barbados) - Caribbean Blues
The warm, dusky, Bluesy baritone vocals, tasty Blues-tinged guitar, and evocative songwriting of auteur Reggie Benn are teamed with the searing sax of Reverand Robert James Haven in a stunningly original synthesizer-free blend of Reggae, Calypso, and Blues nior called "Caribbean Blues". The band has received unanimous critical praise and a fiercely devoted following.
As Jonathan E. writing in BAM Magazine was moved to say: "Imagination and grace abundant on every track".
For fans of: Peter Tosh; Taj Mahal; Eddie Grant; the Impressions.
HILARION NGUEMA (Gabón) - Rhumba Africain
Sweet-voiced guitarist and bandleader from Gabón. Has had several hits and nearly a dozen recordings in Europa and Africa during his 20+ year career including the classic, "Crise conomique". Melodic, hip-swaying and hook-laden Rhumba Africain. Nguema's memorable tenor vocals are supported by his tasty guitar work and usually accompanied by an excellent horn section and two female singers. A perfect alternative to the pounding sameness often found in Soukous.
For fans of: Daouda (Le Sentimental); classic Rhumba Africain; classic Soukous.
SONACAY (España) - Rumba Gitana
An alternative to highly produced Gitano pop and Nuevo Flamenco. With just guitars, percussion, and impassioned vocals, the band conveys the earthy, gritty, feeling of a night in a smokey club in España. Memorable songs and an extremely listenable sound.
For fans of: Ketama; Pato Negro; early Gipsy Kings.
TINTINO (Côte d'Ivoire) - Salsa Africain
Honey-voiced singer is just emerging into the spotlight as Salsa Africain continues to escalate in popularity worldwide. Has found his niche reviving the biggest all-time hits from Côte d'Ivoire and interpreting them into Salsa. Every song is a proven winner.
For fans of: Africando; Ricardo Lemvo; Laba Sosseh.
