Arts Fuse writers continue their countdown of great music celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and this month’s list includes Little Feat, Jonathan Edwards, Hot Tuna, The Red Detachment of Women, and Jimmy Witherspoon & Eric Burdon.
World Music
Short Fuse Podcast #41: Finding Home Through Song: A Conversation with Naledi Masilo
Naledi Masilo is a South African musician who explores the beauty and power of music and song to expand our sense of place.
World Music Album Review: Michael Wimberly’s “Afrofuturism” — Journeying Forward Through Diversity
We need more recordings like this. This is a diverse and imaginative album that draws on a wide range of influences: rap, old-school funk, Afropop, traditional West African music, and R&B jam sessions.
Music Review/Interview: Falle Nioke’s “Youkounkoun” EP + 2 Songs — Africa In Any Language
Falle Nioke has evolved into a kind of cultural ambassador. In the English coastal town of Margate, Kent, he has been praised for his performances of original and traditional compositions on West African instruments.
Concert Review: Singer/Songwriter Michael Kiwanuka — He Will Fill You With Light
Michael Kiwanuka blends singer/songwriter with funk and soul, the energy of Afro-pop with the intensity of psych and prog.
Concert Review: Sergio Mendes & Bebel Gilberto — 60th Anniversary of Bossa Nova
For Sergio Mendes, the captivating anniversary show was a chance to look back on the early years of bossa nova and its birthplace.
World Music Review: Tinariwen’s Saharan Grooves
Tinariwen’s music exudes determination, the soulful energy of ethnic resilience.
Concert Review: The English Beat at Lowell Summer Music Series
Mainstay singer/songwriter/guitarist Dave Wakeling and the band were in fine form in Lowell, whipping through a hit-laden 90-minute set to an enthusiastic crowd.
Music Remembrance: Adeus, João Gilberto, Free-Spirited Creator of Bossa Nova
Melhor do que isso só mesmo o silêncio, melhor do que o silêncio só joão (The only thing better than [music] is silence, the only thing better than silence is João)—Caetano Veloso (“Pra Ninguém”)
Music Review: The de-Stones’d New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival 50th Anniversary
“Forgiveness is the key and love is the answer… Have a good Jazz Fest, but also have a good life.”