The ever-evolving lineup of
the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble
keeps one thing consistent -- producing great records. This version is one of the best, featuring
Kahil El'Zabar
on drums, percussion, and mbira;
Joseph Bowie
on trombone and percussion;
Ernest "Khabeer" Dawkins
on alto and tenor sax, as well as percussion; and special guest
Fareed Haque
on acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and percussion. The four men create a fine balance, with the percussive elements of
El'Zabar
and the other players providing a strongly Africanized structure upon which to hang the music, while the horns and
's guitar playing pull the sound back in the direction of jazz. The musicians complement each other well, with even guests like
Haque
pulling an equal weight. His presence brings new life to the
Ethnic Heritage Ensemble
sound; on songs like
"Katon,"
his rhythmic playing infuses the band with energy. Other strong songs include a wonderful percussion and voice version of
"This Little Light of Mine,"
which displays a metaphysical weariness, and, at the same time, crackles with liveliness. Indeed, the whole of
Freedom Jazz Dance
seems to act as one gentle, life-affirming force. ~ Stacia Proefrock