One Giant Leap - One Giant Leap

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Free Music Notes for One Giant Leap

Free Music Review: Sublime Cross-Border Fusion
Hit: 5 Stars

The general mood of the disc can be described as "mellow", with only "Ma' Africa" and "Passion" really pushing into "danceable" territory. That said, the focus of the album seems to be one of finding a common language through music rather than raising a sweat on the dancefloor. The spacious backing tracks give the listener time to appreciate the talents on show here and also time to understand that the country of origin really doesn't impact on the quality of recorded music.

The talent level of the performers is incredible. From rappers Maxi Jazz (of Faithless), Speech (formerly of Arrested Development) and the incomparable Michael Franti (Disposable Heroes and Spearhead) we hear three of the most insightful raps in recent history. Franti, in fact, is so insightful that he's credited with a poem on "Passion" rather than a rap. In addition we manage to pick up a verse or two from Robbie Williams. Now, I am by no means a Robbie Williams fan and had previously viewed his appearance here as merely a case of things looking good on his CV, should he want a bigger contract. His appearance on "My Culture" (one of the standout cuts and a natural choice for a single) dispelled that belief very rapidly. Somehow he managed not to be dwarfed by Maxi Jazz, his duet partner, and he also managed to deliver a very original take on what Maxi was talking about in his rap.

As a world music fan, I was also very pleased to see some of the big non-western names getting a run here. From Baaba Maal (who gets considerable plaudits for his spell-binding vocals on "Dunya Salam") through to South Africa's Mahotella Queens. As an added bonus for pop culture students, Asha Bhosle makes an appearance as well. Asha who? Only the famous Bollywood singer who Cornershop name-checked in the catchy-as-all-get-out "Brimful Of Asha" a few years ago. India's "Mandolin" U Srinivas also makes a few appearances here, doing - as the name suggests - his trademark mandolin work.

Both producers have trip-hop backgrounds, and this is hinted at by their recording of Horace Andy - Massive Attack's sometime co-writer and co-singer. Andy, in tandem with Grant Lee Phillips, delivers another of his mellow reflections on life.

One of the great hidden performers on the album is a group of drummers from Africa who provide the beat of "Passion". The liner notes give - in very British style - a description of a performance by these drummers, and that coupled with "Passion" is enough to make any listner wonder where they can possibly get more of this kind of stuff.

As I've previously mentioned, every track here is very strong indeed. My favourites would include "My Culture", "Braided Hair", "Passion" and "All Alone (On Eilean Shona)". The latter is one of the most moving tracks I have had the privilege to listen to in many years.

One slight drawback to this album is that, unless you're really taking notice, the tracks have the ability to merge with one another. That said, this isn't neccessarily a bad thing, as it only heightens the "one world" message. It also provides the added bonus of this CD being useful as a chillout album following a long night.

I have heard this CD described as "preaching to the choir". While it is true that those more inclined to buy it are those for whom world music - or world fusion, as this is - is familiar territory, this is far from the only audience for which this album should be thought of as being intended. Anyone who has appreciated quality music by any of the big names involved with this project - western, eastern, african or anything else - is well-advised to broaden their horizons by purchasing "One Giant Leap". The music is moving, the talent is superb and the money is well-spent.

In today's world, the "one world" message seems to be more needed than ever. "One Giant Leap" is one of the best albums currently espousing that philosophy. A definite "best of 2002".

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