Y U NO REVIEW: AUGUST '12

In this installment of Y U NO REVIEW, I'm giving quick, undercooked opinions on the latest releases from Childish Gambino, Gojira, Anna Von Hausswolff, Fang Island, Jeremiah Jae, Coin Locker Kid, Micachu & the Shapes, Tenacious D, Debo Band, The Antlers, Jeff the Brotherhood, Guided By Voices, Peaking Lights, Garbage, John Frusciante, and the Gaslight Anthem.

WATCH THE REVIEW

Debo Band- Self-Titled

Funk, jazz, and pop all come together with an Ethiopian edge on the Debo Band's self-titled debut for Sub Pop Records. Now, I know I listen to a lotta music, but the music of Ethiopia isn't exactly my area of expertise, ya know? I'm not about to walk in and pretend I know the lay of the land here. However, I'd say that that the songs on this record could be easily enjoyed by those who already have a love for afrobeat music or even jazz fusion. While there do seem to be improvisational spots performed by very strong players on this record, it's really about the grooves here. And what odd grooves they are! Debo Band isn't afraid to do it in an odd time, and really give it energy and momentum. Some moment on here get extremely layered and noisy, creating a psychedelic swirl of sour horn wails and guitar noodling. With frontman Bruck Tesfaye's vocals laid on top, these guys showcase a lotta fire.

Debo Band- "Asha Gedawo"

Some bright and uplighting Ethiopian jazz rock from the Debo Band on the track "Asha Gedawo," which is the first song to drop from the group's forthcoming Sub Pop-released, self-titled album. Enjoy! I'm really loving the horns and exotic groove on this one.

Stream the Debo Band's Live EP

The Debo Band is Boston collective with an undying love for the vintage sounds of Ethiopian funk. The group's latest EP is a series of live cuts recording during a tour through East Africa with another band. The four recordings on this EP are only the tip of the iceberg, though. Apparently, this release is supposed to be the precursor to an entire live album, which I hope is released sooner than later.

The live recordings aren't amazing, but they paint a great picture of the band's live capabilities. All the instruments come through pretty clearly; even the accordion doesn't get lost in the tussle.

The groove the band hits on the EP's opening track is absolutely essential. And even though I prefer to listen to this style of music in an instrumental capacity, some of the vocals on here are too good to do without. Obviously, I'm facing a language barrier here, but that didn't stop me from feeling moved by the voice on "Lantchi Biye."

It's too short and sweet to not try, so stream the whole EP above, and buy it for four bones at Bandcamp.

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