If any percussionist deserves bragging rights this side of Airto, it’s Omar Hakim. He’s worked with suds like Weather Report, Miles, Madonna, Stine, Bowie and even Dire Straits. He goes straightahead on this session with Rachel Z/key, Chieli Minucci/g, Jimi Tunnell/g, Scott Tibbs/key, Jerry Brooks/b and guests Angel Rogers/voc, Gregoire Maret/harm and Bob Francheschini/ts. The music ranges from a big sounding “Transmigration” that could easily be something from Return to Forever to mellower fare such as “With Every Breath” which includes some deft guitar work by Tunnell. Maret’s harmonica adds a joyful spirit to “Carpe Diem” and a thick groove is palpable on the laid back “So There.” Hakim shows his stuff on the ricocheting “Walk the Walk” which has some other worldly guitar work by Minucci and Tibbs piano opens the door like a mystery movie on “ Remember to Remember” before the band moves into a panoramic splendor. Exciting music here!
Ozmosis Records