Percussionist Koko Jones has used her skills with the sticks with artists ranging from Archie Shepp to Charles McPherson to Whitney Houston, so she knows a few things about both melody and freedom. Here, she creates mix of upbeat and optimistic R&B ish tunes that include two variations of the classic Isley Brothers hit “Who’s That Lady” which works in its own right, but her own material is just as impressive. There is a Stevie Wonderish “Decatur Avenur Stomp” that sizzles with mamadou Ba/b, Jerard Snell/dr, Zen Zadravec/key and Kevin Louis/tp as well as a celebrative “The Treasure Tower” with lead vocals by Myoshi Marilla along with a vocal chorus. Koko herself sings on the lovely ballad “Why” along with going reggae on “Get On Up” with Derrick Dupree and delivering an almost meditative mood on the two part “Yemaya” that ends up in a joyful funk with Christelle Durandy’s voice. Hard not to keep a smile on your face with this one.
Motema Music