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LIONEL LOUEKE - Gaïa

Blue Note 002354502

Lionel Loueke: guitars; Massimo Biolcati: acoustic bass; Ferenc Nemeth: drums
Accompanied by long-time bandmates Massimo Biolcati (bass) and Ference Nemeth (drums), the Beninois guitarist Lionel Loueke follows up on his well-received Blue Note CDs, ‘Karibou’ and ‘Mwaliko’. Produced by Don Was and recorded live in the studio with an intimate audience, Gaia is a somewhat spotty outing from a naturally versatile guitarist whose rhythmic African patterns and sheens have undoubtedly infused jazz with a new energy.
The CD title is aimed at drawing attention to mankind’s treatment of the planet at a time of increased concern around global warming. Bringing several hundred watts of rock energy to the session, the plectrist kicks things off with ‘Broken’ and a nod to Jimmy Hendrix. So are ‘Wacko Loco’ and ‘Procession’.
Ever the percussive technician on his instrument, Loueke makes the guitar sound like a talking drum at times Somewhat jarringly, in a programme shot through with Loueke’s painterly and whimsical instrumental originality, he ends the CD with the cheesy ‘How Deep is Your Love?’ of Bee Gees fame.

Reviewed by John Stevenson


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