Eliades Ochoa: Sublime Ilusion
Cuba is hot right now. I'm not referring to the weather, but to the island's music, which is prospering after years of international neglect fostered by the American economic boycott. Ironically, it is an American who has been a key figure in this worldwide reawakening. Ry Cooder introduced the Buena Vista Social Club, and through it remarkable artists such as pianist Rueben Gonzalez and the guitarist Eliades Ochoa. The latter is the latest to show off his dextrous skills, his rippling colourful runs embellishing a range of traditional Cuban styles displayed on these 15 tracks by his four comrades in the Cuarteto Patria. The sound of double bass, maracas, percussion and guitar is easy and gently swaying, a warm rhythmic breeze that inspires empathetic toe-tapping.
By Joe Breen
Eric Bibb:
Home to Me (Manhaton Records)
When I first came across Bibb he struck me as a fine guitarist and singer in the country blues tradition. Since then he has toughened up his act, added a little discreet muscle, and moved way beyond the Delta for inspiration. This latest collection touches on most, if not all, of his reference points. There is his disquieting penchant for soft, almost MOR-ish ballads, his love of rootsy country blues, his flirtation with Caribbean rhythms a la Taj Mahal and even a swing at African styles via his tribute to Nelson Mandela. However, he is at his best when playing the blues, with his confident, sensitive vocal setting the tone, whether accompanied simply by his acoustic guitar or other meatier arrangements. His version of the traditional Come Back Baby, for example, oozes darkness and foreboding.
By Joe Breen