Here I Am

Groundation – Here I Am
Reviewed by Sadie O., 9/11/09
Complex, virtuoso jazz/reggae from No.Cal. In addition to the highly distinctive vocals of Kim Pommell, there’s a female vocalists and guests Pablo Moses and the Congos – as well as a bigger, fuller band than their previous (damn good) releases. Lots of fine solos, interesting chord progressions…
No FCCs detected – that said, I have a hard time making out any lyrics.
All tracks truly excellent – I like 4, 6 and 10 best.
1. 7:20 **somewhat uptempo jazz groove with a bit of funk, mostly showcasing keyboards, instrumental for first 2.5 minutes. Suddenly switches to downtempo skank after 2:40. Goes through some changes, impassioned vocals and female backing vocals.
2. 3:31 **slightly downtempo bubble, pleasant roots instrumentation. Includes some keyboard solos, and a bouncy jazzy bit – no simple songs here!
3. 4:35 ***sweet uptempo bubble, unusual female vocals in addition to the usual vocalist.
4. 7:30 ****slow, dramatic intro, then midtempo bubble with nyahbinghi-style chanting. Guest vocals by Pablo Moses. Also falsetto vocals, hint of cuica… Later, some startling deep bass vocals. Amazing stuff…
5. 3:48 ***trumpet flourishes, then downtempo bubble, subdued by still intense.
6. 4:54 ****downtempo bubble with great backing harmonies by the Congos. Includes quite fierce keyboard solo.
7. 5:57 **jazz groove and drums for 40 seconds, then midtempo skank, back to the regular vocalist and female backing vocals, also bit of female lead vocals.
8. 6:45 ***subdued downtempo intro with a bit of vibra-slap, builds slowly into very slow bubble, intense vibe.
9. 3:55 **slow intro with shaker, then midtempo forceful skank.
10. 4:11 ****cool bass and nyahbinghi groove, Congos back for more great harmonies.
11. 4:49 **uptempo, rather funky skank with prominent piano and horns. Instrumental. Very long, dubby fade.
12. 3:22 ***slow, intense vibe. Call for peace and unity in the Middle East… Big, triumphant choruses towards end.