This music is NUTS! And I LOVE IT! The title of the album literally means “Wasps’ Nest” and that is not only the description of the sound, but of the energy that is emitted from this lead and arranged by Spok/as-ss and his frenetic 17 piece band.
At times, you’re going to think that this is some Balkan band, with all of the wild brassy phrases bouncing around, but the luscious saxes and sensuous rhythms take you down to South America. Howeer, the short and punchy beats and jabbing sections make you feel like someone dug Prez Prado out of the grave for this gig. Tunes such as “Onze de Abril” beg for a steamy dance hall. “Capibarizando” features a folksy accordion provided by Beto Hortis that takes you back to his village, while Spok himself delivers a luscious alto on “Moraes E Frevo.” Then, just as you’re about to pigeonhole this band into a hypercaffeinated Rhumba band, bassists Helio Silva and Braulio Araujo tap into their inner Jaco Pastorious and turn the band into a sub tropical Weather Report on “Ninho De Vespa” and “De Baixo Do Frevo” respectively.
None of the songs or solos stay on stage for too long to overstay their welcome. This is music for dancing, and you won’t be able to resist it. Grab a partner, or at least take it to your next party!
Motema Music