Here’s an album by a group that gives a fascinating mix of sounds from New Orleans and the Caribberan. You feel like you’re taking part in the taproot of American jazz with the team of vocalists Louis Lesly Marcelin, Steeve Valcourt, Jonas Attis and Nadine Remy as they are supported by a core group of Junior Lamarre/b, Peterson Joseph/dr, James Carrier/perc, Beniste Belony/acc and a large ensemble of guest sthat include Cyril Neville, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Trombone Shorty.
Almost every song includes a vocal chorus chant, with a mix of calypso and African guitar licks with the PHJB on “Renmen” whereas Shorty blasts his ‘bone on the Caribbean “Pistach Griye.” Afro Cuban funk is changed on “Lakou Dogwe” and an avalanche of percussion rumbles on “Loumandja” and “ Sa Na Kenbe” which features Neville.” The Lost Bayou Ramblers get funky on “Grann” and some tribal beats are supplied by The Soul Rebels on “Bouyon Lakou.” This music works up a sweat!