Friday, February 22, 2013

CD Review: Mahala Rai Banda's 'Balkan Reggae'

Mahala Rai Banda
Balkan Reggae
Asphalt Tango Records

The Balkan beatmasters, Mahala Rai Banda, have their music reinvented and remixed by a host of talented world music artists, including Gregory Fabulous, Nick Manasseh, La Cherga, Adisa Zvekic, Mad Professor, G-Vibes, Errol Linton, Vibronics, Koby Israelite, Annique, Kanka, and Kyle Sicarius. The modern beatmasters provide an electrified dance sound to the already amped-up songs. The music celebrates Jamaica's fiftieth anniversary of independence, so the sound is somewhat reggae-tinged. The instrumental and vocal tunes are strong throughout. The music is upbeat and danceable to say the least. There is a nice combination of dub, dance, and electronica that is centered around a Balkan foundation. Nothing is amiss here. Groove out with Mahala Rai Banda's classic tunes. ~ Matthew Forss

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