I have been playing tracks off of “Jazz Around the Globe” for a few weeks now, I feel like I know this album through and through and it has given me time to remember that this thing we all love, music… is everywhere. There are some incredible jazz journeys to speak of and it is so nice to feel as if the captured tunes on a compilation fill the space….after all..space is the place. For me the eleven tracks relay the inner beat of the globe, as felt from the feet upward. The Kora Jazz Trio and Sherele as well as Keletigui Diabate w/Habib Koite & Bamada and Hugh Masekela featuring Malaika leave footprints within me that jazz music’s wind cannot wipe away. To no surprise, I was especially blown away with the song “Destinos” performed by the jazz fusion drummer great Mr. Billy Cobham with Asere….the song was written by trumpter Michel Padron, who is the featured soloist on the track. My words won’t do this album justice…it’s one for your shelves.
As is (and part of me can’t believe I am saying this) “A Family Christmas” also released by Putumayo. I am not one for the sap that flows musically from the Christmas song tree, but this collection is has itself a festive takes on some Christmas classics, most of which families have passed down global from generation to generation. Add the shake of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s “Is zat you Santa Claus?” and the rattle of Leon Redbone’s “Let it Snow” mixed with the roll of The Christmas Jug Band featuring Angela Strehli & Maria Muldaur and stir it all up with the sweetness of Sam Bush‘s version of “Sleigh Ride” and you have got yourself all the makings of a happy holiday season…..and a perfect stocking stuffer!!
