https://youtu.be/hYzU8dyWIro

Kevin Diehl, drums, bata, electronica
Chuckie Joseph, bata, conga, percussion, guitar, vocals
Julio Berrios, bata, conga, percussion
Andy Gonzalez, bass
Terry Lawson, tenor sax
Adam Jenkins, alto sax
Dan Scofield, alto sax
Vanisa Santi, vocals
Fabunmi Aiku, vocals, shekere
Madison Rast, bass

Editor's info:
On Ashé A Go-Go, the SLF core is joined by a number of guests – including Latin jazz bassist Andy Gonzalez (of the legendary Fort Apache Band, brother of trumpeter Jerry Gonzalez). Gonzalez’s mere presence affirms SLF’s ‘hidden gem’ status, worthy of attention from around the world. Recorded over the course of 2003, the seven tracks of Ashé A Go-Go are incredibly unique entities.

The pieces range in mood, tempo, and style, but create a cohesive album that flows remarkably well. Percussionists Diehl, Joseph, and Julio Berrios lay down a solid foundation for the other musicians to embellish.
The album title alone (ashé means ‘balance’ in Yoruba) invokes a mood of ancient and modern, spiritual and secular coming together as one.

The title track is perhaps the band’s finest accomplishment. “Ashé A Go-Go” starts with a wave of ambient electronics before giving way to powerful bata drumming and ecstatic horn lines. By the time a chorus of Yoruba vocals close out the piece, it’s apparent that the band is an exceptional ensemble. Penned by saxophonist Adam Jenkins, “The Sirens” is a brilliant composition that shows off not only his ability as a writer, but also SLF’s ability to play an inside jazz piece – highlighted by Kimbal Brown’s sangfroid trumpet style – that keeps the percussion wholly relevant.

Pieces like “Pow!,” “Init” and “Seize the Time” show off the variety of song structures SLF can work with. Eschewing repitition in songwriting is a hallmark of the band, and Diehl & Co. take it to new heights on Ashé A Go-Go. “Agua Dulce” takes SLF in a completely new direction. This Joseph original features him unaccompanied on acoustic guitar singing a stirring medley of Lukumi phrases. Although “Agua” is a departure in the course of the albu.......
more