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Garaj Mahal
CD - Blueberry Cave
Garaj Mahal may be the only band around that combines funk,
Indian music, jazz, and rock. At least, they are surely the
best. This foursome from the Bay Area began in 2000 as a sort
of supergroup.
They are known for their live shows and recordings. Although
"Blueberry Cave" is a studio project, the band loses
none of their excitement here. They remain anchored in funk,
and can still play at blinding speed.
One advantage to studio work is that Fareed Haque can be clearly
heard on his sitar guitar. Haque also plays electric, but his
work on his specially made acoustic instrument is notable here
with its quiet exoticism and beauty. On two of the CD's ten
cuts, "Massive (Hertz)" and "Celtic Indian",
he switches between electric and sitar guitar.
Funk bands are highly dependent on their rhythm sections, and
bassist Kai Eckhardt and drummer Alan Hertz fill the role excellently.
Eckhardt often plays faster than most electric guitarists. Keyboardist
Eric Levy can play hard and fast and also come up with many
different subtle sound flavorings.
This is a rare band that will appeal to both jazz and jamband
fans.
Website at http://www.garajmahal.net.
- Dave Howell
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