Karibu
Karibu shows how easily complicated music can move. Lionel Loueke plays with bassist Massimo Biolcati and drummer Ferenc Nemeth, forming a trio with considerable trust. His guitar sounds clear, but effects can give it a different colour. Singing and small mouth sounds become part of the rhythm rather than simply sitting above the instruments.
The title track establishes that open approach. Its rhythmic pattern is less straightforward than the relaxed movement suggests. The musicians mainly let you follow the melody and groove. Technique remains a way of making something lively together.
Herbie Hancock joins Seven Teens. His piano gives firm answers to the guitar melody and contributes an active solo. Wayne Shorter appears on Naima. Loueke approaches the familiar John Coltrane composition with an unusual guitar colour and subtle percussion. Soprano saxophone brings the melody forward without pushing that setting aside.
Light Dark takes more time and brings both guests together. A quiet beginning develops into a freer conversation, with room for changing harmonies. The famous names fit within the trio instead of taking it over. Agbannon Blues then chooses a more direct funk feel. Bass and drums give Loueke enough support to open up his guitar playing.
The polished production does have a downside. Some dynamic differences become smoother than the music needs, making its more exciting details less distinct. Nevertheless, the musical personality remains clear. Karibu is warm and welcoming, with enough individual rhythm and tone to offer more than pleasant background listening. Above all, the trust between the players makes this combination convincing. Its complicated parts rarely interfere with the simple pleasure of hearing them connect.
