Reviewed by Kyrby Raine
Diano Garcia/Turn It On
There’s certainly no shortage of Afro-Beat artists these days; however, the number of them who are actually writing good songs – the ones that your slightly unhip parents can snap their fingers to – is sadly quite slim. Many of them place an emphasis on style over substance, getting so lost in their versatility that they forgot what was most important. Diano Garcia is a glowing exception. Here is a musician who is able to weave pop hooks in a network of world music, acid jazz, hip-hop, and funk.
Like the Talking Heads two decades ago, Garcia effortlessly utilizes his global influences in music that is distinctly American. “Music Music” kicks the speakers with a booming, ass-busting rhythm; its rowdy horns and pulsating textures open the record with the urgency of a car engine already revved up and ready to smoke the pavement. “Vows” slams even harder, shaking the shack with hypnotic keyboards and tumbling drums. Garcia’s voice is pure pop but with a raspy edge that adds a salty kick. “Culture” and “Soap Box” reinvigorate contemporary hip-hop with is exotic foreign flavors. Not to be missed!
