Black Mahogani 2

The only genuine connection between Black Mahogani and Black Mahogani 2 is that the same person is responsible for both releases. The first Black Mahogani, released earlier in 2004, was the fifth in a series of quasi-compilations from Kenny Dixon, Jr. that wickedly interlaced loose ends of the producer's vinyl releases with some new tracks. Black Mahogani 2, put out just a few months after the predecessor, contains four tracks that clock in at just over half an hour. The opening cut is a circular soul-jazz jam that lasts nearly 18 minutes. Over a drum kit, standup bass, and electric piano -- along with traces of alto sax and string-sample smears -- Dixon intones a few lines in whispers. It's so subdued that the group who laid it down could've been keeping the energy level low enough to be respectful to the passed-out stragglers in the lounge it might've been recorded in. The following "Rectify" is relatively succinct; there's a little more pop in the bassline. "Dirty Little Bonus Beats" is a brief extension that allows the drums and piano to flex just a little more, and "When She (Reprise)" adds a little more percolating energy. ~ Andy Kellman|

今春にリリースされた『Black Mahogani』から暇なく届いたムーディーマンの最新作。タイトルどおり前作の続編的性質を持った作品なワケだが、予想以上に黒く、渋く、ずっしりとした印象。リフレインする生ベースのリフやドラムス、そして幽玄な鍵盤の音色から成る生ジャズ・セッションを目の当たりにしたかのような18分強の“When She Follows”はまさに圧巻。ジャンルの枠を越えた旺盛な創作意欲に改めて感嘆の一枚。
bounce (C)ネイシャン