Reviews (14)

Good but not slamming like old MC Solaar CD's
MC Solaar is one of my favorite Hip-Hop artists period. This one isn't as good as the other CD's but I'd also like to point out that the other albums were seriously slamming in my opinion, so just putting out a good album isn't a bad thing. He changes his style on this one and it seems like he has a different production crew from that on the "La Tour De La Question". Trax, beats and lyrics are still tight. Amazing to hear how he can go from one style to the other on the same album. Alliance Ethnik is the only French Group that seems to have figured it out. Get this one but understand that if you have his previous CD's, this one will need to grow on you.

It may sound exotic, but it's not good
I regularly travel to Paris from my hometown in London. I speak French fluently and am aware of the music scene over there. Most of times it leaves me bitterly disappointed. Solaar's first album was a fresh breaktrough for France's african/caribbean community, socially as well as musically. The first and biggest black Frenchman to go into the mainstream, even internationally. It is great any way you look at it. I keep it as one of my favourite albums. His music has gone downhill ever since. 6eme As only receives 2 stars for being daring, albeit with poor results. It has not had that much of an impact in France so far either. The French hip hop scene has also gone astray, running into new territories of hardcore, ragga and cheesy soul (proof of this is their poor presence on the worlwide stage, like Solaar did, with notable exceptions such as Les Nubians and the up and coming Corneille who is actually rwandan-canadian). It's all a big shame, and I keep waiting for a new wave of francophone artists to please mes oreilles.

The Black French Eminem!
It doesn't matter if you understand him. His beats are better than anything I've ever heard. A good friend of mine from France dropped this guy on me so I bought every album by this dude. I don't know french but the music sounds so good he might even be better than Eminem. Buy this album, you wont be disapointed at all.

About time...
About time we finally found something good about France. Solaar's meticulous flows, fluid beats, and euro-stlye definitly redefines the correlation amongst hip-hop and rap. There is a little bit of something for everyone, check it out, you'll either like it or you will won't.

1 up for the French
About time we found something good about France. Mc Solaar definitly redefines the correlation amongst hip-hop and rap. His meticulous flows, fluid beats, and euro-style definitly bring about a decent sound that this generation has been deprived of for too long. You have too appreciate hip-hop for what it is to truly appreciate Solaar. Check it out, either you like it or you don't. ... Read more

Amazon.com

While North American rap drowns in its own clichés, international artists are invigorating the genre with their own musical traditions. The Orishas, a Cuban group based in France, use Afro-Cuban religion to summon the spirit of hip-hop. Named for gods of Santeria, they came together in 1998 when members Yotuel and Ruzzo hooked up with Roldan and Flaco-Pro (a veteran of Sergeant Garcia) through a cultural exchange program between French and Cuban rappers. Collaborating with French hip-hop producer Miko Niko, they bring the attitude of Havana streets to the rest of the world, appealing to the Buena Vista Social Club crowd as well as the hip-hop heads. On their debut, A lo Cubano, the song "537 C.U.B.A." (their remake of Compay Segundo's "Chan Chan") gives new meaning to the term "old school." And the sound of sacred Santeria beats and traditional son weaving through sharp-edged lyrical attacks with groove-heavy bass and drum tracks on tunes like "Represent," "Atención," and "Atrevido" make for a cool joyride through the back streets of Havana. --Jesse "Chuy" Varela ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Orishas's take Latin HIP-HOP scene by storm.
In Afro-Cuban beliefs the ORISHAS are the emissaries of Olodumare or God almighty. The 9 Orishas rule over the forces of nature and the endeavors of humanity. In this case these ORISHAS are only 4 and their powers have been felt in Europe especially France, Italy, Spain and Holland. This CD is indisputably the best combination of rap/sonero sound/and salsa blend ever put together. The Orishas are Cuba's answer to now extremly well known Fugees originally from Haiti. Fortunate for the Orishas they do NOT resided within their native land of Cuba. It is due to their freedom that they are able to express themselves in the way in which they do. The tentalising rapping flows and back beats along with their salsa scats and choruses will make any latino dance their but off. This their second production will forever leave a unbelievable mark on the history of Cuban music and what it has evolved into in the new Millenium. On a more personal note, I have been a DJ for over 12 years and have worked in local radio station here in Miami. I listen to 90% anglo music, this CD blew me away. Thank you ORISHAS!

Mike

amazing dance music
I LOVE this CD. Dancing to housework has become a regular sight in my house since A Lo Cubano came to town. If you're not a fan of hip hop but you like salsa and can appreciate hard hitting beats, check this spanish language CD out. EVEN IF YOU'RE NOT INTO SALSA but you like hip hop and love dancing, check it out. Even if you don't know Spanish, it'll make you want to learn! The band is fantastic. Did you ever think you'd hear rapping to "the Buena Vista Social Club"? You will now. It's awesome. How much do I love this band? I had downloaded all the songs on the net and STILL bought the CD. It would make a great gift for a hip hop fan wanting to branch out.

AMAZING
THIS IS TRUE HIP HOP. THIS ALBUM IS INCREDIBLE. VERY INNOVATIVE. I WAS BLOWN AWAY BY WHAT THESE GUYS CAN DO.

Orishas celebrate Cuba with beautiful mix of sounds, beats
This is a masterpiece. The Orishas have mastered the technique of the hiphop idiom while melding the best of Cuban musical traditions to make a unique and unforgettable CD. Rejecting the racist and violent character of much of US hiphop, these guys celebrate their communities, their families, their beliefs, and most importantly, their love for their homeland. Nurtured and celebrated in Cuba, they still had to go to France to cut this CD and access a world audience. Yet another reason to demand an end to the embargo...

orishas - lo maximo
this is the real thing from the young cuban music scene - a must for anyone who likes music that represents the complexity of history - cultural, political, and social - while still being quality entertainment. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Less experimentally brash than his more recent release, Tricky's debut CD Maxinquaye is actually a better introduction to the British hip-hopper turned international trip-hopper than his later work. The dozen smoldering, moonlit tracks are less concerned with loopy aural exaggeration than they are with showcasing Tricky's slow-mo rap and singer Martine's sexy soprano. With the exception of the stellar "Pumpkin," (featuring vox from Alison Goldfrapp), the duo mix a colorful palate of rhythmic vocals, throbbing backbeats and gravelly electronic textures. Toss in large doses of sexual innuendo and Maxinquaye becomes a libidinous foray into languor and lust. --Nick Heil ... Read more

Reviews (85)

Trip-hop masterpiece
Coming out of collaboration with Massive Attack, Tricky was clearly bursting with ideas of his own. On Maxinquaye he sticks to a trip-hop bluieprint, ironically nicking Karma Coma's lyrics for the brooding 'Overcomes' and even sampling Portishead's 'Glory Box' - one of the classic triphop songs - on 'Hell Is Round The Corner'. Yet he infuses the sound with a dark, understated urban menace and with singer Martina Topley-Bird he creates sweltering, sexy grooves that sometimes, as on 'Abbaon Fat Tracks', descend into pure erotica. She has a sultry, alternative voice which complements his laidback rapping style very well, both of them sounding very British. Its an intriguing combination though its a shame that he doesnt take the mic and go solo more often. His only real freestyle rap comes on the almost old-skool hip-hop of 'Brand New You're Retro'.

Occasionally as on 'Strugglin' they wander astray without a tune and it makes for a somewhat routine track, acceptable as a 2-minute filler but unbearable stretched into 6 and 1/2 minutes. Yet there's more than enough to make up for it: the masterpiece of paraonoia that is an inspired cover of 'Black Steel', Topley-Bird's voice awash in aggressive guitars and gritty production. Her voice is an acquired taste, especially on tracks like 'Ponderosa' where her sound is totally Estuary, but its nicely broken up by the lush 'Pumpkin' which takes the ingenious tactic of marrying a Massive Attack-style backing track to Orbital (and, after this album, Goldfrapp) vocalist Alison Goldfrapp and a brooding Smashing Pumpkins sample. Also, when the tracks are as good as 'You Don't' which is reggae-tinged and almost like the Horace Andy tracks on 'Blue Lines' its churlish to complain.

Ultimately, Maxinquaye is not only a trip-hop masterpiece but an urban classic. Highly reccomended to fans of not just triphop but those new to the genre or mainstream hip-hop fans.

Trip-hop masterpiece (4.5 stars)
Coming out of the critically acclaimed Massive Attack, Tricky (having dropped Kid from his name) released his debut in 1995. Strange thing is, he's nowhere to be seen for the first three track, dropping by on the fourth slo-mo song. He uses the services of singer Martina Topley-Bird to chilling effect over sexy and dark songs.

Overcome: highly percussive opener, sexy singing. rowr. A
Ponderosa: another slow, sexy song with a strange carnival interlude. A
Black Steel: the worst song, a metal cover of Public Enemy; pointless, I always skip over it. drags the album quality down. D
Hell is Round the Corner: a stunning turnaround, slow-mo trip-hop based on an Isaac Hayes sample. brilliant. A+
Pumpkin: shimmering production, the quality continues. A
Aftermath: the longest song, just ride the groove. A-
Abbaon Fat Tracks: blatantly sexual lyrics, but so sexy you'll sweat. A-
Brand New You're Retro: furious tirade against hip-hop haters, blazing track. B+
Suffocated Love: the best track; great melody, sexy lyrics and singing, a must-hear for any trip-hop fan. A+
You Don't: ragga flavored track, not too shabby. B+
Strugglin': dense song, Tricky sounds like he's struggling to breathe. but he's more normal than some. A-
Feed Me: hypnotic closer, leaves you stunned. A

Fans of trip-hop will no doubt appreciate this dense and sexy album from an artist who has not been able to reach the heights he climbed with this album. Play it loud and float away.

TRICKY IS TRICKY!!!!
I stayed away from this CD for the longest, scared of what I might hear--I mean Tricky does look slightly demonic. But all that aside, "Maxinquaye" turned out to be just the opposite of what my initial perception was. It is in fact a masterpiece that can only be tantamount to the works of Massive Attack, Portishead and even DJ Shadow. With sexy vocals from Martina and Tricky himself, "Maxinquaye" keeps it appeal in 2004 with material that doesn't at all sound dated or forced, but instead sounds fresh and innovative as the day it was released. Tricky is truly a "trip-hop pioneer." "Maxinquaye" is haunting, sexy, profound, intense and down right funky! Highly Recommended!

Number 1
After owning this album since 1996, I can safely say...This is the best album I own. Hands down.

Being Haunted Has Never Been This Much Fun
This debut album, like Tricky's work with Massive Attack, signified an innovation in contemporary pop production and arrangement, like Eno's best work was to the 1970s or My Bloody Valentine's was to the early 1990s, and is probably the best trip-hop album ever. Tricky's bleak and cynical vision finds form through bizarrely juxtaposed collages of samples and loops that sound like he put his memories of music through a blender, as if he were both reveling in and taking revenge on our cut-and-paste society. Who'd ever have thought to assemble together the strange samples one hears on down-tempo tracks such as "Overcome" or "Ponderosa"? But it's not without humor (starting with his spliff-ravaged speak-sing) and a thorough sense of irony, exemplified most strongly on the piece "Strugglin'" with its dislocated rhythm track of a gun being cocked. Then there's Martina's sleepy voice chiding and hiding through the mix. This is a sexy, smoky, disorienting and beautiful album by a madman. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you've read any of the speculation surrounding Awfully Deep, you'll be aware that this is the down album from beleaguered Brit-Jamaican rapper Roots Manuva, a troubled work where he battles with the twin demons of depression and mental illness. Luckily, hard times can't entirely keep a good man like Rodney Smith down: barely two minutes into the bashed-up dub-hop of "Mind 2 Motion," he's already exhorting his audience to "Swing your pants!/ Swing your skirt!/ Shake away the hurt!" in an effort to keep the black dog from his door.

And truly, this is a long dark night of the soul: on the excellent "Colossal Insight," Smith turns to God to save his sanity; on pitch-black soul number "The Falling," he's lost in an apocalyptic reverie, fantasizing about smuggling hand-grenades onto an airplane. But luckily, Smith is agreeably incapable of presenting his predicament without moments of dark levity: see the title track, which recalls a stint at a mental hospital populated by "crooked doctors and kinky nurses." A man who dispatches the Reaper with a nudge and a wink, Roots Manuva remains one of British hip-hop's most potent forces. --Louis Pattison ... Read more

Reviews (1)

EXCELLENT!!! WHEN ART MATTERS MORE THEN RECORD SALES!!!
this is truely refreshing hip-hop...roots manuva sounds like an artist who is really comfortable with his craft. this is an album to listen to as a whole, as it's not about outstanding individual tracks.it just has a certain feel to it as an entire album. just when i get discouraged about hip-hop, a real mc drops to help me remember what's real and what's fake! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This gorgeous pair of African princesses are the latest artists with Mother Continent roots--including Baaba Maal, Ray Lema, Youssou N'Dour, Salif Keita, Zap Mama, and Angelique Kidjo--to infuse French music with the soul it would otherwise lack. Unlike those who cut their deep African funk with the cloying sugar of French pop, Helene and Celia Faussart, sisters from Bordeaux, don't give it all up to La Belle France. In clear, warmly intimate, and, yes, Parisian-sexy voices, they snake in and out of each other's way, often coming together to build glorious harmonies, always singing universally uplifting messages [translations in the CD booklet, except for their American-sounding English in "Sugar Cane"]. It's all set in clean-edged, ultrahip, sensitively calibrated tracks that draw on lush soul, steamy funk, beat-driven hip-hop and cool, flowing jazz. But this album is no pastiche of sounds looking to gobble up many demographics. Recorded in France and London, Princesses Nubiennes plays like an extended single--better yet, like a dreamy musical journey through the sounds of the modern-day African diaspora. --Elena Oumano ... Read more

Reviews (91)

This CD is HADES HOT!!!!
From the first to the last track, I am swept away by the voices of these bohemian chantueses, the HOT styling of African drum beats, acoutstic guitars, hip-hop, R&B and soul and the eclectic topics of the lyrics into the Afro-French experience of Les Nubians. The music is so MOVING and INFECTIOUS that I sing loudly each song in my mispronounced, uninterpreted, "No French Speaking" rendition and never use language as a barrier on my enjoyment of the CD! I recently had a friend, who is fluent in French, translate the CD's lyrics so I could understand the Les Nubians perspective of life, love, social consciousness, pride and history that is recounted to me sweetly and soulfuly in each song making my Afro-French experience completely enjoyable. It's a must have for all Sade, Zhane, Soul II Soul, Roots, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, Sweetback, Seal...oh heck with the name dropping, GOOD music fans!!!!!

Mad beats and lyical style
I finally found this CD at the local virgin megastore and had to purchase it right away! I could'nt listen to it on the way home cause I forgot the CD cartridge for my car. It was sure the wait, however. Every song had my head moving to the beats as well as the lyrics(even though I don't understand a word of french) My favorite songs so far are Makeda and the Sade remake Tabou. The sisters Faussart music and lyrical style is unlike any hip-hop group out at the present time. I hope this,their debut album Princesses Nubiennes opens minds as well as hearts in our present world of chaos in the hip-hop industry, it sure did mine! and will yours if you buy it.

Fit for the "Princesses"
If you don't understand French, then good luck understanding most of what Les Nubians say. Then again, you really don't have to know. These talented sisters from France sculpt one of the most winning world albums in decades, "Princesses Nubians," a blend of jazz, soul, funk and hip-hop.

Starting off with the smooth "Demain," Helene and Celia run the gamut with gentle European-influenced melodies ("Les Portes du Souvenir," the guitar-heavy "Voyager"), a couple of pleasant interludes, jazz (the upbeat "Makeda"), French-funk (the delicious "Tabou"), and poppy hip-hop (the only English track, the chipper "Sugar Cane").

French cool and African soul seem like an unlikely musical fusion, but Les Nubians manage it very well. It's fresh, unabashedly sweet-sounding and has a vibrancy missing from most music. What is more, these two have gathered a wealth of different musical influences and patched them together into a unique sound, without a dull moment. Dancy? Definitely. Lightweight? Absolutely not. 

Their vocals are smooth and strong; it doesn't matter for a second if you don't understand any French beyond "Garcon." There's enough emotion in their voices to tell you just what you should feel without the words. Heavy foot-thumping percussion is woven together with piano, acoustic guitar, saxophone and violins.

Rich and full of life, "Princesses Nubians" is a a rewarding collection of eclectic songs by a pair of deeply talented musicians. Elegant, sultry and highly recommended.

Les Princesses Nubiennes um Perfect!
This was a wonderful debut alblum.

Nubian Princesses...
and that they are. These two women have gorgeous voices that flow perfectly with the music. They exude beauty and truly bring out the beauty of the French language. I don't understand the words, but you don't need to, you can feel what they are saying. There is so much emotion on this CD; it's moving...Highly accessable, yet still intelligent and amazingly crafted. If you like soul music, definitely pick this up and don't worry about understanding the lyrics. ... Read more

Amazon.com

After guest appearances on Guru and Talib Kweli, as well as the Red Hot + Riot collection, Les Nubians finally return with the follow-up to 1998’s Princesses Nubiennes, the most popular French language album stateside in more than a decade. One Step Forward has the same Sade-meets-Zap Mama soul groove vibe thatsisters Hélène and Célia Faussart are known for, but the duo adds a few new wrinkles to the mix this time around. There’s a distinct reggae influence to songs "El Son Raggae" and "Brothers & Sisters," which features Morgan Heritage. Even though their voices are as sassy and sexy as ever, they sing a bit more in English, but French language gems "Amour A Mort" and "J’Veux D’la Musique," two of the album’s strongest tracks, need little translation. For the most part though, One Step Forward is more self assured and richly textured, nicely refining a winning formula that will no doubt enchant the many fans of its predecessor.--Tad Hendrickson ... Read more

Reviews (28)

Some good, some bad
I admit this is not as good as I had anticipated. So, the bad news is that those smooth, sexy and musically superior rhythms that made Princesses Nubiennes a great album are lost on the collaborations with the various musicians here, namely- Brothers and Sisters, Temperature rising. And the bass on the title track doesn't quite seem to work out, especially during the chorus. Furthermore, I do not understand why on earth the version of Temperatute rising featuring American-style, and somewhat bland rapping by Talib Kweli replaces the original version with French rapper John Banzai (if u've listened to the latter on their website, u'll understand what I'm saying). In my humble opinion, and I dont mean to insult anyone, it comes across as an unnecessary effort to reach American audiences (read sell-out?). On the good side, there are a few memorable songs- tracks 3, maybe 4, 8, 12, 14, and 15.
Overall, this is a good, bold effort, but will require some time to get used to. Les Nubians have a unique and original style to their music, which has already won them several fans across the globe. However, I believe they have lost a little of that something on these collaborations. They would probably win more fans, and avoid losing the old ones, by staying closer to their original formula. Maybe I'm too critical, or biased from listening to the first album numerous times. I guess I was expecting a similar effect and feeling here as on Princesses Nubiennes, the latter on which each song immediately grabbed your full attention.

I (heart) Les Nubians' One Step Forward
I am really feeling Les Nubians new album entitled "One Step Forward." The vocals are beautiful and the lyrics are of great quality. It's a very ecclectic world album breathing with the rhythms of the African Diaspora. It's still a world music affair, but there are also flourishes of reggae, jazz and dancehall with just a pinch of hip hop. These Afro Euro princesses have blessed us yet again with another stellar effort and are chartering new, unfounded musical terrority. Standouts on the record are:

-Temperature Rising (featuring Talib Kweli) - The electronic-type beat is so cool on this song. Talib's flow is active.
-Me & Me - This sun-splashed track is so beautifully recorded. I love how it starts out with a world groove and then flourishes into a full-fledged reggae number.
-Insomnie A swooning rhythm with great french vocals. Reminds me a lot of the vibe of their first effort -- Princesses Nubiennes.
-J'veux d'la Musique (tout le temps...) - A head-nodder. The beat to this song is so hot! It has this old-school Sade/Jazzhole vibe it has to it, but authentically Le Nubian. Great afternoon cruise song. The pianos and horns are crazy in this track! I love it.
-El Son Reggae - Deep Reggae Groove! The bass is knocking on this song. You can grind so hard to this beat! Love the piano tinkling in the background.
-Brothers & Sisters - Another hot reggae grinder. Nice rock steady groove with Bob Marley-like vocals by its male vocalist Morgan Heritage.

-Que le mot soit perle - There's a rich mediterreanean vibe to this song. It makes you feel like you're on the mediterranean coast right at dusk under a magenta-colored sky.
-Saravah - This song is hauntingly passionate. Something about the deep vocals and harmonies that prepossess me.

I strongly recommend picking this record up if you're ever in the mood to purchase something.

beautiful and innovative sounds from beautiful voices...
Les Nubians' sophomore effort did not fail to bring the same level of musical sophistication, sensitivity and haunting harmonies that the first album, "Les Princesses Nubiennes," was full of.

These two lovely and talented sisters take us on a tour of a cross-section of different sounds from various countries and cultures. They sing in French, Spanish and English, and feature hip hop, R&B, cuban son, reggae and Euro-pop in their music. Some of my favorite songs are "Temperature Rising" (featuring Talib Kweli), which blends hip hop with R&B and is very catchy, "El Son Reggae," which features a fusion of reggae and latin beats while the sisters sing in French and also dabble in Spanish, "Me & Me," which has a very folksy, poppy and melodious quality, and "Que Le Mot Soit Perle," which is just beautiful and very acoustic.

It is a shame these beautiful singers don't get more play time on the radio. I am sure it is hard to determine what category their music falls under. They are fusion of so many international sounds and styles. I really think that more people should take the time to get to know them, though!

Oui!
Les Nubians' "One Step Forward" is a gumbo mix of underground soul, funky jazz, and dashes of reggae--with a welcome French twist. Featuring the vocals of sisters Helene and Celia Faussart, the CD is a seductive journey through many moods and textures. I'll be the first to admit that my French has been rusty since high school (some songs have French lyrics, others in English), but that didn't stop me from appreciating this disc's many riches. The tracks "Brothers and Sisters" and "El Son Reggae" are lively and deeply rooted in old school reggae, and "Que le Mot Soit Perle" is a quietly elegant number that stands out mainly due to its welcome touches of acoustic guitar and light percussion. Other points of interest are the 8 minute closer, the pretty "Immortel Cheikh Anta Diop" and the laid-back groove of "Unfaithful/Si Infidele." While some may call "One Step Forward" an attempt to make the duo more "accessible" to American listeners, I did find it an overall solid effort. Tres bien!

LA CLASS'
I m a bit disapointed with this new CD but nubians represent our country and our way to do music abroad (especially in USA) and i'm very proud of them...But princesses nubiennes (their first joint) was better of course...but they weren't afraid do do a thing a little bit diferent and they did not reproduce their first CD..
Les filles je vous adore vous etes la gloire de la musique française continuez votre bon travail ... Read more

Amazon.com

Next to the BuenaVista Social Club, France-based Cuban rappers Ruzzo, Yotuel, Flaco-Pro, andRoldan--a.k.a. theOrishas--were quiterecently the hottest musical export from that forbidden island to hit theseshores in years. Now, riding on the heels of their international debutA lo Cubano,Emigrant continues the group's soulful syncretism of African-American rapand Afro-Cuban percussion and musical genres. The combo, which is now a trio,adds its patented conga-coded syncopations to the bling-bling hip-hop beats,especially on the synth-trenched "Que Pasa?" (What's Happenin'?) the horn-driven"Ninos" (Children), and "Habana" (Havana). Make no mistake, this CD can bouncealongside any tracks performed by stateside Latino superstars, fromFat Joe toBig Pun. --EugeneHolley, Jr. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

More than worth!
Dear Hip Hop Lovers.... I present to you "Orishas", your first and last stop in latin hip hop, they are simply taking the world by storm, just when you thought hip hop's best work could only be heard in English...we were simply wrong... by combining traditional cuban music with hip hop they are able to create a never heard before fresh hip hop sound that speaks for itself!

This... their second album, has proven once more their abilities to simply be the very best at what they do...and that's the truth...

All songs are great, but specially "Que Pasa"; "Guajiro"; "Asi Fue"; "Niños"; "300 Kilos"; "Testimonio" & "La Vida Pasa"... The album contains Spanish & French lyrics, but don't worry because I'm sure their flow will make you nod your head without understanding a word of it, that's a promise... as a result both of their albums are part of my most frequent played-permanent collection!

Their 3rd album is being released sometime next month!...

For both cd's I thank Orishas, Thank you Orishas!

Keep up the good work!

A Lover!...

Not dissapointing at all, good effort.
I didn't start listening to Orishas back when they released A Lo Cubano, that may be the reason why I liked this album so much, with great songs like Que Pasa, Mujer, Guajiro, Desparecidos,Que Bola and Testimonio. Mujer and Testimonio I found to be the best songs, the absense of one of their member really hurt them but they still got good music, Orishas is well known but not in North America, well not as well as they should be known. These Cubans can really hold it down, regardless of their slightly new sounds. These greats have sung with the likes of musical talents such as Iggy Pop, Compay Segundo and Cypress Hill. Alot of people out there regardless of the type of music you like, Orishas manages to blend in many in this album that is highly underated, this is a must get, just stop thinking about the old Orishas, the change isn't THAT GREAT, they still manage to keep their soul.

El tercero será mejor!
Pudieron esforzarse más!
Perdieron un poco la pegada del Primer CD "A lo cubano" Creo que al darle mayor protagonismo al "no rapero" las canciones perdieron su fuerza, cuando en realidad la potencia del grupo está en el hip-hop, los ritmos y sonidos tradicionales afro-cubanos y la forma de expresarse de los habaneros, que te parece estar metido en la Habana, además de sus mensajes muy positivos y profundos a pesar del tono popular, el cantante entonces es excelente para darle toques a las canciones pero no para tomar el protagonismo. Pero no se extraviaron tanto porque ahí está el tema "¿QUÉ PASA?" lo mejor que el grupo ha hecho en su carrera y muy bueno también el video, para guardarlo para siempre, sobre todo los cubanos.

Another must have album
ok if you have heard the first Orishas album and loved it, then you will love this one. simple as that. the style is fantastic and they manage to keep the sound fresh. this album also seems to be a little more from the souls of the artists than the previous one was. i would not hesitate to recommend this album to anyone, it makes US/UK commercial hip-hop/ urban music sound extremely manufactured and repetitive. I have seen these guys live, and then attended an after-party with them, they are all extremely talented and have a genuine love for the music, i think that this comes out through the recording, and makes it that much better. If you don't like this album, it is probably because your stero is not good enough to experience it.

A must for any Hip Hop collection
For those who have an inkling for exploring Hip Hop and it's international influence, this is a must have. This sophmore outing for the Cuban ex-patriot group, the Orishas easily sets them up there, both lyrically and musically with such "cutting edge" acts like Rage Against the Machine and Public Enemy.

Tracks like "Guarijo" (Cuban for "redneck" or "hick") which describe a day in the life for a typical rural Cuban, to "Emigrantes" which explores the life of an emigrant who travels from Cuba to Europe and "finds himself facing tremendous disillusionment". The tracks of this album pushes the scope of social criticism to a whole new level and illustrates the next generation of hip hop as the American art form spreads to the far-flung reaches of the world. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Good intro to DJ Cam if you can't get "Substances".
This music is DJ Cams first complete body of original work, and to date one of his best. If intramental hip-hop needed a 101 course Mad Blunted Jazz is a great primer. Yes there's scrathing and sampling but it's put together with care and imagination, with little crassness simply for the sake of it.
The best part of this set is the second cd with the live set. Here DJ Cam shows that his talent and this genre are more than just a "bag of tricks". To pull off a live show in this genre is challenging to be certain but DJ Cam gives us a flawless show almost it seems without breaking a sweat. A solid introduction to one of Paris and the worlds talented DJ.

"trip hop" I'd say if kutmaster kurt allowed
dj Cam is an original Marseille-head, where Marseille is probably the realest Hip Hop ghetto in France. Cam's albums are pretty diverse, exploring a somewhat brooklin sound to trip hop as for "mad blunted jazz". If you listen close you might find some popular samples as taken from nightmares on wax for instance, allover the sound is however pretty minimalistic and lurks more to a certain dj krush than to Portishead or even massive attack. Blunted headz music music if you dare!

Watchout! This album exists in several (3 at least) coverarts. The one shown above looks just like the original cardboard wrapped release, wich is sold out in Europe - I doubt wether it's that one. UNDERGROUND VIBES is exactly the same thing, maybe a reissue of this one

When Jazz had an affair with Hip-Hop
I'm a fan of some of Cam's stuff and always loved the more jazzier element to his work, this album fuses those fat hip-hop beats with gracefull chilled out jazz. I would say that this album is the enbodyment of everything that is cool about Cam. It's like the sort of thing that you would hear in an uber-sheek celeb hang out. Buy this album and show off to your mates how you only listen to music that is quite simply splended.Nuff said.

Guess you need to be blunted
Not worth it even if it is two cds. Talk about boring. Every song has horrible keyboard drum beats and sounds very amateur.

Better to stick with the heavyweights of the genre... Shadow, Logic, Beatjunkies, etc.

honestly, one of the finest collections i've ever heard
I have been buying music for years now, everything from sublime to aphex twin, I can honestly say, this is probably one of the finest pieces of music I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. I own all of Dj Cam's albums, and this one is the best, IMO.
Phat Hip-Hop beats laced with jazzier-than-jazz horns and strings, and voice samples of sexy french girls. On track 10 you may recognize the sample, Lady Kier of Deee-light. The question isn't why should you buy it, the question is why shouldn't you buy it. It's that good. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Fun and Feel Good CD
I first got this on cassette in 1992 as a graduation gift from two of my friends who had enough of hearing me sing the praises of this group. I later bought the CD for sound clarity. This has to be one of the best CDs I own. "Brother Sister" and "Excursions, Remixes and Rare Grooves" are on the list too. But "Brand New Heavies" made me buy the latter CDs. The opening "theme" song is my favorite track. It makes me think of Grover Washington's Mr. Magic, but it's got it's own design. The wonderful thing about BNH is that while they make you think of a lot of old funk, jazz and blues artists, you never feel like you're hearing a remake. "Stay This Way" feels like the color blue, relaxed and comfortable. "Ride in the Sky" is a cool reminiscent of the 70s. "Shakedown" conveys the fun the band must've been having when they recorded it. And "Put The Funk Back In It" does just that. If you like jazz or funk or old-fashioned R&B, you'll be glad you bought this CD.

Heavies' debut carries a lot of weight
In 1990, Acid Jazz was a term unheard of in mainstream music circles, and The Brand New Heavies were indeed brand new. But with vocalist N'Dea Davenport, the pioneering Heavies built a bridge from an underground music sensation in London and stretched it all the way to American radio and MTV. It was a remarkable feat, and their self-titled debut album offers every explanation for it, bursting at the seams with equal parts soul and originality.

As a brand new band, the Heavies didn't know quite what they had on their hands with vocalist N'Dea Davenport; she's only featured on four cuts here, but as it turned out three of them were released as singles and her fiery, soulful vocals wound up being the key to the band's commercial success. She comes on full force on the intoxicating radio smash "Never Stop" and the horn-heavy funk workout "Dream Come True," but pulls back with equal ease on the ultra-smooth "Ride in the Sky" and casts a spell of irresistible seduction on the sultry "Stay This Way."

Of course, featuring Davenport on only four of ten tracks leaves the album a little lop-sided, but thankfully the instrumentals are strong enough to carry the load. "BNH," for all of its jazzy horns and smooth funk rhythms, tidily sums up what the band is all about; "People Get Ready" and "Gimme One of Those" are spirited exercises that sound like outtakes from the "Shaft" soundtrack; and "Put the Funk Back in It" proves the Heavies can shake the house even from a ballad tempo. But the most impressive instrumental cut by far is "Sphynx," a mesmerizing and sophisticated composition that somehow manages to sound like just the sort of thing John Coltrane would record if he were alive and kicking in the 70's.

In fact, so authentic is the album's retro sound, it no doubt sent more than a few early listeners scrambling for the credits to find out if this was a debut release from a new group or an unearthed reissue. From start to finish, the Brand New Heavies take us on an addictive trip back to a time when the grooves were thick, the writing was sophisticated, and the vocals were genuine, unadulterated soul. The Heavies would eventually surpass the heights they reached here, but in retrospect the album offers every clue that they were on their way to becoming legends in the Acid Jazz genre. Heavy indeed.

GREAT LIVE BAND - PLUGGED OR UNPLUGGED
The Brand New Heavies are the "real thing" when it comes to their music. Like those funk and rock bands of the '70's. That could jam all night and turn a 3 minute song into a 20 minute jamfest.

I was in Paris through the late '80's and early 90's trying to get some play as a lyricist. I wrote for great afro-french artists Niyanka, Kova Rea, produced by a young Guadalopean musical genius Gary Volet. Although everyone said I looked like Neneh Cherry, and should get into perfoming pop, I wasn't interested in being on stage only in writiing for those who craved the spotlight.

I worked at Les Bains Douches and hung out with avant garde African and Morroccan musicians on the perepherique of Paris where the trendy feared to go. A dark complexioned German-Spanish recent MIT grad/roomate Eric Wolf turned me on this parallel universe of tenements and project studios (felt just like Brooklyn) on the outskirts of Paris where Some of the best bands, yet undiscovered rehearsed and shared a wealth of music that's probably way beyond the comprehension of mainstream music. I wish they let the floodgates open. MTV couldn't handle it.

Anyway, a Miami friend sent me to stay with a family in London, home town friends from Balina Ireland, to pursue my career there. After several months, using the poems as lyrics to several songs on Jimi Polo's album (which I registered in France, yet have not seen any royalties from-Beware you up and coming ambitious writers) I was walking along Denmark street in London when two Rastas approached me and asked me if I could sing. I told them I enjoy singing, but I prefered to write. They henceforth steered me directly into the acid jazz office, and introduced me to Jan and the guys from the Brand New Heavies.

They were preparing to leave for the U.S. for their last tour with Ndea Davenport. I like her and their music together. They told me to meet them for rehearsal at Kings Crossing in 2 weeks, they gave me the cassette to memorize and rehearse. We spent hours going over "Dream come true" and the other songs and let me tell you, to be small in numbers, they rock like a large band. I told the band that I would love to write music with them. They spent a great deal of time with me, grooming, critiquing, laughing, playing music. They made me feel like an old friend, or better yet, a fellow musician. They told me to meet up with them on their return from concert. I couldn't hang out longer than the 8 months I spent in London because I had no more money to live on, I returned to France where my student visa afforded me the chance to work (I couldn't work in London), legally. The experience alone made me appreciate this band that I had not had much exposure to. The heavies rule!

fly with the heavies
this is the one CD I keep coming back to year after year for the funkiness of it, for the good feelings each song exudes. each time i listen, each tune is fresh. the music and vocals by N'Dea Davenport are superb. makes me close my eyes and smile and dance. favorite track: stay this way. other fave tracks: ride in the sky, never stop. the whole album jams. it's diverse in its mix of funky instrumental tracks and also songs with N'Dea's angelic vocals. I've been a fan of this album since 1993 and it never fails to raise spirits and get you into the groove. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

I adore this cd
I have been a fan of the "Heavies" for awhile. This particular cd is my fav, because it truly inspires me. I am a fan of "good " and positive music, music that gives me a good vibe. I love almost everysong, only because N'Dea's voice is like butter. I could listen to her sing all day. If you like neo-funk , let this cd be your first pick.

Their Best Album
I first heard this record in 1994. At the time I had the first two Brand New Heavies' releases. However, this album totally blew my mind from the first song and on till the end of the album. This was their best album and the last with N'Dea Davenport (I also have the UK version which has two extra songs not on the American release). My favorite tracks on the album are: People Giving Love, Forever and Brother/Sister and Fake.

Why was this their best album? Great songwriting, great songs and vocals and the band was just tight at that moment. It was as if they poured their heart and soul into making that album.

Definitely buy this album and then their first one.

This is a PERFECT album!
I have loved this album from the very first moment it graced my ears. N'Dea Davenport's vocal depth is superbly showcased on this disc. I highly suggest this album to anyone who has an open ear for good music. The band brings out the magic in N'Dea's voice and she in turn brings out the magic in the band. It's been 8 years since the initial release of this album and it brought me through a very tough time in my life and continues to bring joy and hope to this very day.

Simply the Best
I remember when i first listen to this record. I was in club in Milan and i got up and ask the DJ : What's this ?!?! The sound was hot funky & fresh. This is a high quality record because all tracks are very good . My personal preferences are : Have a good time, Dream on dreamer, & Forever . Don't forget N'Dea Davenport is the singer. Well... i still listen to this record in 2002 with pleasure and it makes me dance....

One of the best albums ever!!!
If you are a fan of Acid Jazz, this is one album that you should definitely get. Ever since they started, I've been trying to collect every album that B&H ever did, and comparing all the albums, this has got to be their best effort. I'm not saying that the other albums are bad, I just treat this album as one of MY roots. No one could ever resist the shuffling groove of the drummer, the wicked bass and guitar and the mellow-to-devastating vocals in this album. Better check this out!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Originally banned in Mexico and slapped with a lawsuit in Spain, Molotov, a foul-mouthed rap en español group based in Mexico City, is as fired up as Rage Against the Machine on its debut. The album's title, which translates as "Where Will the Little Girls Play?" parodies ¿Dónde Jugaran los Niños? (Where Will the Children Play?), a 1992 album by Mana, one of rock en español's biggest acts. But that's just the beginning. Rapping in both Spanish and English, the band puts together an explosive blend of turntable scratches, thick bass lines, and flamenco guitar riffs. Initially misinterpreted as a slur against homosexuals, "Puto (Coward)" actually makes fun of anyone not willing to stand up for himself. With its chanted lyrics and anti-authority theme, "Gimme Tha Power" is an anthem for disenfranchised people everywhere. Think of Molotov's Dónde as Mexico City's answer to Public Enemy's It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back. --Jeff Niesel ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Insuperable
Desde que el video de "Gimme the Power " se transmitio en MTV busque por dias en Internet hasta que encontre el MP3 en un FTP mexicano, donde además estaba el resto del CD, despues de tomar esta canción me dio curiosidad y baje otra ... "Mas vale cholo que mal acompañado" me encanto el estilo, luego baje "Cerdo" la cual me parecio increible y decidi bajar todas..y TODAS SON BUENAS. Obviamente, cuando el disco llego a El Salvador lo compre de inmediato, nunca habia comprado un CD con tanto gusto desde que Soda Stereo saco Cancion Animal.

Lo que me gusta mas de este grupo es la capacidad de cambiar ritmos, "Cerdo", "Puto", "Que no te haga bobo jacobo","Voto Latino" son canciones que definitivamente demuestran que el grupo tiene talento, pueden cambiar ritmo, voces, temas, tiempos, de manera formidable. Las guitarras chillan increible, la combinacion de 'malas palabras' en la letra es natural, no se oye mal o forzado como con otros grupos. Estamos acostumbrados a sacar una o dos canciones buenas de un CD pero este esta prensado de borde a borde de excelentes piezas.

No se si ellos tienen algun contacto con Salvadoreños, pero hay mucha combinacion de expresiones que me parecen muy salvadoreñas, me imagino que sera casualidad.

Compren el CD y ponganlo a todo volumen. 100% recomendado.

El mejor cd que he oido en un buen rato.
Molotov definitivamente logro seguir en los pasos de Control Machete, cantando las verdades de una manera original, fresca, y sobre todo sincera. La musica es excelente, con mucha influencia de Rage Against The Machine, y Beastie Boys. Pero siguen siendo Molotov, un sonido nuevo y muy bueno. Sin dudas, de lo mejor que he escuchado de rock mexicano. Las canciones "Gimme Da Power", "Puto", y "Use Or Lose It" son las mejores de todo el cd. La cancion "Que No Te Haga Bobo Jacobo" es lo que mucha gente necesitaba escuchar en un buen tiempo, tambien la famosa "Gimme Tha Power", porque son sinceras. Aunque el lenguaje es un poco fuerte, la gente tiene que terminar con los tabus de expresion. En verdad me siento orgullosa de ser mexicana! Felicidades Molotov!!!

Pretty good!
Very political, very heavy, very interesting. I like the strength of the guitars on some songs, while in others is more like a smooth balance of lyrics and music. The songs are powerfull, insipred by mexican pride and lots of complains about the government, which is the reason why these record has being banned in so many places. None the less it will be a classic.
I like Gimme the Power and Matate tete the best.

i want to marry this CD!
Molotov is hands down my favorite band, they have the most amazing blend of rock, rap, and humor. I fell in love with this cd as soon as i bought it, all the tracks are fantastic but voto latino, gimme da power and puto are some of my favorites. Also, not on this cd but still my favorite song by molotov, is here comes the mayo- everyone should check out that song (off the y tu mama tambien soundtrack). This cd has been out for a while but i still listen to it nonstop, along with dance and dense denso. this is the most awsome music you will ever hear. if it sucks you in like it did me, watch out- you will get heavy into latino rap/rock. you can't live without this cd, it is so amazing. viva molotov!

Molotov finds the true meaning of rock
With its live-sounding performances, irreverent attitudes..., and kick-...rock, "Donde Jugaran" finds the rock spirit which sadly gets lost sometimes. Most of the disc is in Spanish, but there's enough English to figure out what most of the songs are about, and if you can understand Mexican curse words, you've got about 80% of the lyrical content. Fun album, starting with the album cover. ... Read more

Album Description

Reissue of 1999 album includes three bonus tracks, 'LesNuits' (DJ Spinna Mix), 'Finer' (Paul Nice Mix), & 'Burn Me Slo' (feat. O.C). Warp. 2003. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Chilled beats at its best.
Compared to everyone else on Warp Records these days, it always seemed that(Along with LFO) Nightmares on Wax were a bit out of place. But considering the progressive nature of the label, it only seems proper that George Evelyn and his laid back grooves are allowed to breathe on Warp. This is the finest, most laid back album you will ever hear. The Album starts out with the cinematic "Les Nuits", and the laxadazical grooves of "Morse", my presonal favorite, and then grooves on with "Ethnic Majority", "Ease Jimi" and "Finer". If you can find an album that flows better, give it to me, but right now, smoking a jay and listening to "Carboot Soul" seems only right to me. George Evelyn put chill out on the map, and really no one would even think about putting one of those stupid "Chill Mix" cd's without thinking of the man and his work. He's come a long way from his Acid House days and put in perspective a definitive sound that many have tried to copy. I could go on and on (Can you believe I'm 19?) but I'm going to let this review speak for itself.

Great chill/trip hop
Hands down, this has got to be one of my favorite albums of all time. This album is designed to make your senses tingle and your mind to drift into bliss. Starting out with the classic "Les Nuits", the track eases you into "Morse", the second track and my personal favorite. Layered with warm melodies and beautiful female vocals, the song will surely capture your mind and transport you to a state of pureness. "Ethnic Purity" follows with a nice horn section and bass line reminicent of the Antibalas Orchestra of the black movement. "Jorge" slows down with an easy, relaxing rythmic beat and female vocal, while the popular "Finer" invites your mind to wander with a deep, yet soft bassline and female vocal element. "Ease Jimi" brings the instrumental Antibalas influence back, while the psychadelic "Argha Noah" climaxes the album and send you into a state of euphoria. The three songs that follow are designed to bring you down and conclude the trip, thus the category "trip hop"is fitting in every respect. I recommend this not only to trip hop/chillout enthusiasts, but to anybody who enjoys music.

Track 7s
I have a strange predilection for judging albums by their seventh track - ignoring for a moment all the mythological mumbo jumbo that goes with this most interesting of primes. Carboot Soul has arguably one of the best Track 7s in the business - Argha Noah. Argha Noah is perfect accompaniment for bathing, snoozing, baking, discussing Ugandan Affairs, walking, reading, spacing, recovering, driving, anything in fact. Magnificent. To try to describe this music with pathetic adjectives, metaphors or similes is just a waste of time. The rest of the album is pretty good too. Buy it & enjoy. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

AWESOME ALBUM!!! MUST HAVE!!!
Snow is the greatest artist in the world. I love every track on this album. To me it seems like he wrote every song with his heart and not just to complete the CD. I have my favorites on this album. They are 1. Lady With A Red Dress 2. Ease Up 3. Informer 4. Hey, Pretty Love and all the rest are almost as good. This is the only album I have because I don't have money and most stores around here don't have his CD's. His songs are songs that I love to get up and dance to. I try my best to sing along but nope. If your a snow fan then this album should definitely be in your collection.

Superb album by snow
Well ... I like this Album a lot this guy did very well .....

Songs "Hey Pretty Love" is really very nice .. I love that ... "Lady with the red Dress" , "Girl I've been Hurt" and "can't get enough" are other superb songs .... it got a worldwide hit "informer" in this CD .. that's incredible .... other songs are also good except "Drunken Styles" ... but that doesn't matter ... coz that's only 1 song .....

It's a nice perfect album .... and deserve 500000000000000000000 stars :) Good job snow and M.C. Shan :)

ahahahahahahahahahahahaha!
Oh man when I first heard this I was crying from laughing so hard. Seriously what the hell, this guy is from canada trying to sing like hes coming right outta a jamacan dance hall, silly whiteboy that accents for jamacans. He is the canadian equivilant of vanilla ice (which makes it all the worse because canada is just mini-america). Seriously forget about buying this, forget about snow, and buy good music from a great band, such as the dead kennedy's or dying fetus.

A licky boom boom down!!!!
This CD is so laughable (in a bad way) that you really wish it was a parody. Except it's real. 'Snow' (and I use that term lightly) made some really bad music (garbage) in 1993. Thank god I was only in kindergarden in 1993 cause I didn't listen to the radio back then. I actually heard of Snow while watching VH1's '50 Worst Songs Of All Time'. And yep Snow's Informer song was in the 30s. Peace out, a licky boom boom downers!

snow is great
hey, snow sounds wayyyyy good, his music touches people differently than others. I like his music a lot. except for the explicit stuff (in his new cd) Drunken Style is my favorite right now, he is very talented and has a wonderful voice... ... Read more

Album Description

Asian Dub Foundation's 2005 studio album 'Tank', is packed full of reggae, jungle rhythms and topical lyrics raising questions about life in 2005. Features the hit's 'Hope' & 'Take Back The Power'. EMI. 2005. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Excellent album
Asian Dub Foundation are one of the best bands to come out of Britain in a long time, and one would only need to have seen them live to realise that. This album is one of their best achievements, a well-crafted powerful mix of the best of many worlds and sounds - hip hop, reggae, amazing sitars, tablas and dhol percussions, electronics, instrumental cinematic-like soundtracks. The production is excellent, all the tracks in their variety are kept together in an effortless way. The lyrics have the force of genuine conviction and anger (politics and music usually don't mix well, and ADB are the exception to the rule). The sound is sometimes reminiscent of mid-nineties Massive Attack (in the vocals especially), but they never sounded this strong. Favourite tracks: Take Back The Power, the pyrotechnic Warring Dhol, Who Runs This Place.
Of course it helps if you are already a little familiar with what ADB do, then you wouldn't probably even come up with complaints about their not being 'dub' enough, as if that was ever a strict category that allowed for no escursions into all sorts of styles (Calexico did a brilliant 'Dub Latina' track, let's sue them?). If you want that kind of rigidity in music, then don't even bother. This is music that actually has a lifeblood of its own.

If your a devout fan buy it
This album is good, very good at times.But when original lead singer Deeder left two albums ago it really did hurt this group.Good news is they are slowly pulling themselves out of it.If your a fan you should be happy, but be aware, on this disc the boys head off a little closer to Transglobal Underground territory.The good news there is that it is similar to older TGU than newer TGU offerings.The last two ADF albums just aren't fully realized like the Community Music album was and certainly not as punk or aggressive.There are only hints of dub anymore and much more rootsyness.Flyover and Roundup are quality old style ADF songs but track two slows the tempo of the disc after the opener(Flyover) badly, and it takes some time to regain. ADF needs to go back to their roots on their next venture and hire the production team of Blag Dahlia and Eric Valentine to bless the project with their redhot talents.
PS- to the reviewer who was upset that it wasn't a dub album, congrats for being enough of a music fan to purchase an album simply based on the name and cover.I love blind pulls as I call them and thats how I found ADF oh so many years ago. My reaction was the exact same as yours but now I'm a big fan.

3 and half stars?? hakan orkan "anti-presido"-from Turkey
It is impossible to say that album is not good (of course this is my personal idea), it is awesome!! Lyrics are smarter than their previous releases, their music is more catchy and fast-tempo than before. When you listen the whole album, you are forced to think about Mr. PRESIDENT (you know who is he).. This album is worth to listen many many times like their all stuff. Don't miss this intelligent album..

ADF Brings the Pain!!
Lets see...Jungle beats? Check. Warbling basslines? Check. Driving guitars? Check. Ragga vocals? Check. Eastern rhythms & melodies, socially conscious lyrics, all wrapped up with punk sensibility? Check, Check and Check.

On Tank, Asian Dub Foundation delivers the goods once again. From the fiery opening foot-stomper of "Flyover" to the closing organic lush of "Melody 7", ADF comes correct and lays down an album worthy of multiple repeat listenings. Without falling into cliched sounds and rhythms, ADF has stayed true to form while also showing something new on several tracks. The track "Hope" showcases a rollicking bassline, mated with vocals that would remind one of Horace Andy, and all of this on top of a haunting background melody. For those who love the inner city breakbeat music, I highly recommend this album.

And for the reviewer who felt that the band's name was "misleading", I would suggest spending time with this group's back catalog.

NOT DUB
this is fast paced techno with lots of vocals and mediteranean, asian, and reggae influences. not what i expect from their title. its like buying "dub syndicate" and getting heavy metal. preview at least 1 of the songs before buying as they are all very similar, and similarly paced. song 8 take back the power is their best.. very far from dub. they should get zero stars for having such a misrepresentative name ... Read more

Album Description

This is quality dub with a generous topping of bass andlashings of pure melody. 'Smokers Delight' captures theessence of chilling out. A TVT Records release. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Top Trip Hop
Out of all of Nightmares on the Wax CDs this has to be the best!!! It screams trip hop with the trippy sounds effects and awesome mixes. It totally surpases DJ Kicks and Caboot Soul. Even compared to other trip hop groups like Kruder and Dorfmiester or Massive Attack, Smokers' Delight ranks top in its category. Ever since I have heard this CD, I have bought it and shown it to my friends- after that everyone ran out to buy their own copy.

Sick of the radio?
Here's your album. Shut off that blasted FM and their inane lyrics and get down low with Nightmares on Wax. Everyone from your mom to friends will like this CD - at least, that's what happened in my case.

The smooth rhythms and beats will hit someone who hasn't heard trip-hop (sorry G. Evelyn) /acid jazzy stuff before with a big fist to the ear. Listening to the samples here on amazon may be okay, but to really get the experience you have to get the album and listen to it completely uninterrupted - once you do, you'll want to do it again, and again, and one more time. It's anytime music, good for doing homework to, washing dishes, or just relaxin'. Absolutely wonderful, I hope more people discover this sort of music.

excellent
Unboubtedly one of my favorite albums of all time. This album is
the most influential in my collection.

A Delight for Smokers and Non-Smokers Alike
I am a goddess...at least I was proclaimed to be one by the sales clerk at the record store where i bought this CD--without listening to it first!!(Actually it was my third copy...my backup was "borrowed" by a friend who neglected to return it)

I absolutely love this Disc...its one of the few on which i skip no tracks at all, even though track 3 makes me wish i were a pothead so i could enjoy it even more. standout work by G.Evelyn, Firth and collaborators. Standout Tracks include: Nights Interlude (check out the revamp on Carboot Soul as "les nuits"), Dredd Overboard, Pipes Honour, Stars, Cruise, Mission Venice, Rise (and its subsequent reprise) and Gambia via Vagator Beach (excellent percussion).

If you love music, and I don't mean mainstream pop/rock, but contemplative, intellingent, and mind-bending music, you will adore this cd. I have two copies. One for whatever happens to be my cd player at the time, and one stored in my handbag for emergencies. You will not regret buying this CD.

christmas ooze
Listening to earstroking records like this one helps me put things in perspective again afer a hard days work. Dealing headshots on UT while bouncing my head to Nights Interlude is what I think the best way to get ready for five hours of massive sleep. Also Id like to thank Toshinori Kondo for bringing Ki Oku to live. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Pre-Millennium Tension picks up where the first album Maxinquaye left off, but this CD fulfills the promise of Tricky's unbounded spontaneity and fondness for sonic digression. Abandoning the accessible pop of Maxinquaye, Pre-Millennium Tension serves up a beguiling array of sound effects, electro distortion and fragmented lyrics that amount to a rich--if bizarre-musical montage. As suggested by its title, this disc zeros in on a kind of end-of-the-millennium disruption of classifiable sound. With its cross-pollination of hip-hop, cabaret balladry, background textures, and disjointed arrangements, Pre-Millennium Tension takes a peek at the future of pop music and declares it will be nothing like we expect. --Nick Heil ... Read more

Reviews (46)

How can THIS be one of the best albums of the 90's???
Let's get one thing straight - "Hell is Around the Corner" RULES.

OK. Now that this is settled, it is safe for me to say that nothig on this album is even close to as powerful, haunting, or even likeable as that song. I am a HUGE alternative, trip-hop, and elektronica fan - but this album just isn't that great. TRUST ME. The only song that I listen to is "Vent". That song is pretty cool because it has interesting industrial beats and doesn't have too much rapping (which is what I don't like about Tricky) in it. Anyhow, too many of the songs just aren't interesting enough to hear several times. Check out "Maxinquaye". There are many great catchy songs on it. I still have faith in the greatest trip-hop group ever - PORTISHEAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

rating:C-

You people anger me
The people who have given this album a bad review say they don't like it because it doesn't sound like Maxinquaye. Should Tricky be like AC/DC, and release the same album over and over? Any true fan of eclectic music (which, by definition, trip-hop and all it's subcategories is) would appreciate this album for what it is: something new, something different. In a world where crap like Matchbox 20 is labeled "alternative," Tricky stands alone as a true "alternative" voice in rock music. This is the album where he really cut loose, getting over the Massive Attack-wannabe sound of Maxinquaye, deciding to do music that was a little more polished than those tracks on Nearly God, a little less hip-hop than those on Grassroots, and instead started doing music that sounds like nothing else. Christiansands is still my favorite Tricky song ever (save for this one he does live but hasn't released yet, which we've taken to calling "Movies Don't Move Me"), and the first 5 songs on here are sheer genius. I'll admit that some of the songs aren't very listenable, ie My Evil Is Strong, but all in all this album is purely amazing. I think his most recent, Juxtapose, is better overall, but Pre-MT has some better stand-alone songs, like Christiansands, Tricky Kid, Makes me wanna die, and Vent. Bad Things is cool, too, once you get into it. And to my friend below, that's not even Tricky singing on Ghetto Youth, it's some Jamaican guy that was hanging out in front of Tricky's studio, and Tricky had him come in and sing over the music. Why? Go ask Tricky, I don't know. God bless you all! Your opinions are important, even if they're the wrong ones!

FANTASTIC!!
This CD confirms for me that the 90s was probably the greatest decade for music in terms of freshness, creativity and inventivness. The triphop scene especially. Dark demonic trippy rythmes and beats coupled with soft creamy singing against raspy grainy vocals which sound like he's been gargling gravel. Although I have to say I think Trick blew his load on this CD. Nothing he did after quite matched up. Thsi is a gem and should be in your collection.

Underated if unpolished gem
I think this is one of Tricky's better albums but is usually snubbed when i mention it to people.This is probably his darkest and most intense work, making it all the more endearing for being so.His signature incoherant, lispy grumblings are present - and stand out on the tracks Tricky Kid and Sex Drive.The earlier tracks are a lot funkier than the last few which could have been trimmed off without loss.Still i am happy to have it in my collection and do still play it on occassions though not at my Grandma's birthday party.

There's Something About This album
I don't know what it is. I can't quite explain it. Every time I listen to PMT though I feel it. The songs are like a vaccum, they move through you and fill you with a void. It's the only album in my collection that presents a sort of hollow apathy towards the world as if it sees everything in some sort of half-sleep state where you'd only partially understand the world as you normally would.

I think this is Tricky's most important album, and the only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is simply because you can't listen to it whenever you want to. The music is very abstract, and the voices and lyrics are usually garbled or spoken in a seemingly disjointed manner that doesn't really follow any clear method. Thoughts and analysis ruin the album, and you have to listen to the voices and not the words being spoken. If you listen to it around lunch-time when you're wide-eyed awake and dilligently pursuing some errand in your day, you'll be thinking and moving too fast to get this. The moon and stars have to be around when you hear this, and even then you have to be in a certain state of mind; you basically have to be in a mental place where you don't particularly care about anything. Then, this album comes alive and engulfs your brain like cold black tar. It flows over you and through you, like some faceless phantom.

It's hard to explain, this is a truly unique album. Despite how many times you listen to it or try to get into it, you'll never appreciate it until you hear it under the right circumstances. ... Read more

Amazon.com

British trip-hop phenomenon Tricky embarks on a second hypnotic, chilled-out ride to the outer limits. Guest artistes include Bjork, Neneh Cherry, Terry Hall, and Alison Moyet (who sings "Make a Change," the most accessible track here). --Jeff Bateman ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Ack....I'M MELTING
Ok, I'll be honest, I didn't love this cd right away. I had to listen to it a couple of times - but oh baby, when it hits you, watch out! The song "Poems" makes me want to cry really hard, but not in a sad way - it's just so cathartic. The whole album gets under your skin and you can't (nor do you want to) get it out! I loved hearing from Allison Moyet and Terry Hall. What a nostalgic trip. This is actually the first Tricky cd I've gotten. Everyone seems to be saying it's a real departure from his other albums. I plan to buy them all now. I only hope they will live up to the genius that is "Nearly God". Buy this!!!

Brilliant work!
In reviewing this album, I would just like to tell you my experience. I heard Maxinquaye, and it was excellent. Then I went to Pre Millenium Tension, and It was good too. I wanted more tricky. Someone suggested this cd to me, but said its very claustrophobic, and I would not like it much. So I ignored it. I went on to Angels with dirty faces. I was still looking for a new tricky album, so I thought, what the hell? It wont hurt if I got nearly god. I tell you Honestly Very nearly perfect...
Ok, Nearly God is something I bought without consciously knowing I was looking for it. I found it in a used store ... and figured I'd give it a try. Well, let me tell you, NOW I'm hooked.
At first listen, you might not like it because it's not your typical techno trancy stuff. The trick is, you have to listen to it numerous times to truly appreciate the album. It is genuinely worth the effort, though. I'll tell u why.
Some of the best tracks on this record are "Poems", which will turn you on in no time flat. "Make a Change" is also very meditative. Even "Keep Your Mouth Shut", with its slight hip-hop intro will blow your ...world, friend:)
I only give it 4 stars because, while the record is truly amazing, it is hard to play it the whole way through. I'm telling you, though, purchase this album because it's really good and you will find youself repeating certain tracks over and over again. If u are looking for a dope experience without the marijuana, then go to ur nearest record store, buy the cd and play it with some fine wine and a good friend (and make amazing love):)

The Blatant Truth about Tricky's Music!
This is a masterpiece !
This cd illustrates Tricky's full trip hop ability. All the songs all have the same mood and nothing is out of place. Bjork is featured on this cd along with Martina(His X Girlfriend). The music is classic and the stand out track is a Creepy masterpiece called "Poems". Which I believe "Broken Homes" on "Angels with Dirty Faces" was crafted after. Tricky is on a slow path to destruction, His 1st three efforts were really great this includes Maxinqueye, Nearly God, Pre millennium Tension. After these three efforts the split between Tricky and his girlfriend Martina really made a difference. You can tell that her voice was a huge motivation in his music. With the abscence of her voice you can tell that the creativity just wasn't there. Tricky isn't a singer and with out a female voice over his voice,it lacks alot. His new effort "BlowBack" is completley crap, it is basically a attempt at rock music because he is bullheaded and just can't except the fact he can't sing. "Ruff Guide" which is supposidly a Greatest Hits that will give you a basic outline of Tricky's career. And if you compare the notes with each song you will see the difference in the material. "Angels with Dirty Faces" only hints at the magic that Tricky and Martina once had. "Broken Homes" is the masterpiece on that cd, and that is it. But anyway I hope this review has been extremley helpful to someone. Because Lord knows! I quit purchasing Tricky after I bought Juxtapose and got a rude awakening. Tricky his know longer on the right path, Hopefully someone can convince him to get another female vocalist and do the creepy, Haunting creative abtract beats that made him Famous!

1. Maxinqueye *****
2. Nearly God *****
3. Pre Millenium Tension *** 1/2
4. Angels with Dirty Faces **
5. Juxtapose *
6. Blowback (-*)
7. Ruff Guide ****
8. Grass roots ep **
(I hope this is helpful to anyone out there)
Arish

moody , contemplative and, of course, trippy
Nearly God is technically a collective of artists, but Tricky is clearly in the driver's seat. Some of these songs are rather gloomy while others are more carefree. I've been told this is a great album to meditate to and I believe it. Especially with the mesmerizing "Poems." Also "Tattoo" is a deeply atmospheric track and I was thrilled to find out that it was written by one of my favorite groups - Siouxsie and the Banshees. Bjork and Tricky make an intriguing vocal duo, especially on "Keep Your Mouth Shut" which sounds like a dungeon until the opiate-haze interlude sung by Bjork. It's quite disconcerting when a brutal segment from a rap song cuts through the song, yet effective. Nearly God contains many strange sounds and great vocal performances. This is essential chill-out Tricky. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

it's AWESOME !!
this CD is one of the best. whether or not you want to jam or chill out and dream, this is the CD for you...it's jazz with all the right emotion.

EXCELLENT album ! DON'T buy it!
This record is unbelievable ! It's truly any serious music lover's wonder why this band wasn't one of the biggest hits of the 90s. On top of being a first-class acid-jazz/new-soul/neo-funk/whatever-you-may-call-it band (leading the way in that style alongside other British-based band Incognito), the Brand New Heavies got a brand-new vocalist on that album who added a whole new dimension to their music.

Siedah Garrett was no newcomer though, having been a background singer for Michael Jackson for years (she also wrote "Man In The Mirror" and sang the famous duet "I Just Can't Stand Lovin' You" with him on the album "Bad"). She had a try at solo recordings under the auspices of her mentor Quincy Jones (with the great single "Refuse To Be Loose" and a debut album going completely unnoticed) and was one of the major protagonists of Q's "Back On The Block" album, singing side-by-side with Ella Fitzgerald, Bobby McFerrin, Al Jarreau, Sarah Vaughan and the likes, and even a duet with Chaka Khan !

On "Shelter", Siedah adds her inspired and soulful raspy singing which fits the band like a glove (I much prefer her contribution to that of N'Dea before her), making this album my favorite by the band. Sadly, Siedah departed after this one project with the Heavies, being now replaced by able Carleen Anderson from Young Disciples fame (and two superb solo albums in-between). What is Siedah up to nowadays? I really don't know.

Well, just in case I convinced you to buy this CD... DON'T !!! This is the re-release of the original edition, which didn't contain "You've Got A Friend" as a bonus (included in the European edition). So my advice is for you to look for a copy of that now-unavailable edition (the one with the white cover) and make the most of that fantastic album !

I'm glad I gave this CD a chance
I was crushed when I first heard that N'Dea Davenport wasn't going to be with the BNH anymore. So when I heard that Siedah Garrett was going to be the new lead, I refused to buy or listen to "Shelter" when it came out. Six years later, I reconsidered (mostly because I realized that N'Dea LEFT the band to pursue her own career not because she was kicked out). I'm also a big fan. Anyway - I listened to the CD and absolutely loved it! The CD has a fresh sound even now (though it was produced in '97). I even have to give Siedah some props; she does a great job. The music is definitely different from some of their other albums (but probably closer to "Brother Sister"). It's polished and some songs were intended for pop radio. I'm glad I went ahead and gave this CD a chance. It's really good. Songs that stand out: "Shelter," "Gotta Do Right," and "Day by Day."

The best Acid Jazz CD ever!
I really liked Brand New Heavies anyway, however, after I got this CD, this has by far, become my most favorite CD of all time. Not to mention, that I am now a BNHeavies addict!!!

Essential Album
This is definitely one of the best (if not the BEST) BNH Cds out there. If you like bass-, piano- and horns-driven funk, then this is the Cd for you. I assure you, you will not be disappointed by this Cd. It easily has 11 tracks that are worthy of constant rotation. If you are even remotely contemplating purchasing this disk, just do it. It's tight. ... Read more

Album Description

Mix CD featuring DJ Fietchie (feat. Joe Dukie), Ian Brown,Tony Allen feat. Damon Albarn, The Rootsman, DustySpringfield, Quincy Jones, Tranquility Bass and more.Slipcase. Azuli Records. 2003. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

I I I your FUNK & SOUL is delivered here!!!!
I'm a huge fan of D.J. Ease & his N.O.W. creation. The guy has mad skills. I cant say one bad thing about the music he produces yet I'm always skeptical when it comes time to a mix disk. Those that bought the European edition on the last N.O.W. release received the bonus mix disk which was just average until now. This "Late Night Tales" is nonstop funkiness ranging from jazz, lounge, dub, soul, to hip hop. These are my key favorites:

4. Show Me Some Love - The Rootsman (nice track also check out The Rootsman on the new BUG disk, amazing)

6. Listen - Quincy Jones (Quincy is the man, enough said)

8. Sneakin In The Back - Tom Scott (this track breathes JAZZ, its on my answering machine right now)

13. Spooky - Dusty Springfield(what a sweet classic to use, EASE must of been thinking about Viscous Pink on this one)

A must have for your collection!

Great!, that's all I have to say.
This CD is amazing! the mix between new tracks and old ones is unique and... just try it!

Extremely Good
This is a really choice selection of tracks. It is blissfull as it seamlessly transitions from on great track to the next. All tastey flavors of music make the cut. It is really a journey through sonic masterpieces. I highly recommend it. I was a bit cautious about this after having enjoyed the earlier Nightmares On Wax releases but not really getting into the DJ Kicks release. This disc picks up and pushes the standards even higher. I only have this Another Late Night release as well as Fila Brazilia, which is a favorite of mine that i still enjoy listening to after having bought it when it was first released about three years ago, so if you dont have that one you might want to get it as well. Get this disc and get ready to enjoy.

Ethereal Old School Groove
Evelyn's latest release and contribution to the "...Late Night" compilation is quickly making it up to my 'Best of' list for this series.

My only question is why the dialogue at the end? I never have cared to listen to it.

Not Another Late Night. Time For A LateNightTale
Nightmares On Wax aka George Evelyn is an extremely talented individual. His personal productions Car Boot Soul and Smokers Delight are very essential downtempo but funky, laid-back albums. His DJ Kicks compilation, which blends hip-hop, jazz, breakbeat and chill-out grooves is the perfect companion for late night chilling. The latest instalment of the Late Night series provides an even better, more relaxing, subtle yet funkier alternative to DJ Kicks. It is truly impressive. How else can I describe the beautiful music contained in this collection? Filled with downtempo or mid-tempo Funk, Soul, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Dub, Reggae, Breaks, Electro elements throughout this mix, this is THE ultimate album to hit your stereo, while chilling with your friends.

From the chilled-out NOW remix of "Gravy Train" to the amazingly funky "Sneakin In The Back", from the dub-like "Show Me Some Love" to the spaced-out "California Suite", from the ideal-for-smoking "Action Tape 1" to the groovy "Spooky", from the full-on-beat "Bout That Time" to the sweet-vocal "Having Your Fun" you cannot miss for buying this album. And the cover version of Cymande's "Brothers On The Side Dub" is excellent.

The mixing is probably the best in the Late Night series with every tune effortlessly blended with each other, offering the smoothest transitions. And with a track selection almost impeccable this latest instalment is as good as (if not better) than Rae & Christian's Another Late Night (my personal favourite). I would strongly suggest that you start collecting the Late Night series if you are thinking about it, and if you have already then there is no doubt that you will buy this one. I already can't wait for dub-reggae masters Sly & Robbie's next Late Night release. ... Read more

Album Description

The popular French rapper's 2003 album. Sentinel Quest. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

More catchier than earlier work, but still edgy
If the first song on Cinquieme As, "Solaar Pleure" was an eloquent description of hate and despair, then it's opposite can be found in "Jardin d'Eden" on Mach 6. In fact, all of Mach 6 seems to be a lighter, more positive album in response to the darkness and hardness of Cinquieme As. Indeed, in some tracks on Mach 6 he samples songs from Cinquieme As, as if to bring out the contrast between these two, seemingly polar opposite, albums. Don't get me wrong. I liked Cinquieme As, but it was heavy (in terms of sound, lyrics, mood). But what Solaar has lost in heaviness of sound, he hasn't lost in edginess. On the surface, Mach 6 is peppier, with more upbeat rhythms and catchy tunes, but don't let that fool you. The lyrics are just as serious and thought-provoking as they have always been. The music sounds happier, but Solaar is his same old cynical but eloquent self.

Another thing that struck me about Mach 6 is its more international flavor. "Au Pays du Ghandi" picks up Indian beats, while "Cash Money" is a great modern samba, and "Hijo d'Africa" is one of the best Afro-Latin songs I've ever heard. This is not the first time Solaar has used ethnic sounds and patterns, but it's the first time he's been able to do so beyond the superficial level. In Mach 6, Solaar proves that he understands the music of other cultures, that he can break it down, explore its nuances, and then re-construct it in his own way.

If you like Solaar, this is a must-own album. Truly brilliant, from a brilliant musician.

Mach 6 Great album!!!
MC Solaar does it again. Mach 6 is a great album from start to finish. I have only had a chance to listen to it a few times so far, but its fast becoming my favorite album of his . It was worth every dollar... if you liked Fifth Ace, this one is a must get. ... Read more