SHIMSHAI
I Sense Your Presence (Natural Mystic)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

---

It's not often my 19-year old's musical tastes intersect with mine, but we definitely agree on at least one CD so far this year: Shimshai's I Sense Your Presence. Shimshai and the Natural Mystic Ensemble rock steady through seven long jams that rely not only on the traditional themes of honoring Jah and spirituality, but also look forward to a brighter tomorrow. I first heard I Sense Your Presence before 9/11, and Shimshai's brand of life-affirming music surely shows us in "Better Way" that there's got to be a better way. What separates this disc from other Rasta releases, though, is Shimshai's talent. In addition to composing and singing each song, he plays flute, clarinet, classical and electric guitar, alto sax and melodica, a unique wind-blown piano. Mix those ingredients up, along with the Natural Mystic Ensemble, and you've got the debut release from a bright talent. Shimshai was the driving force behind Spirit Earth, a regional reggae sensation in the Pacific Northwest, and I'm glad he's branched out with his own CD. Don't take my word for it, though: sample some of Shimshai's uplifting and inspiring music at his website, www.shimshai.com.

Track List:

Communion * Better Way * Destination of Creation * Roots * Psalm of Creation * Yeshu-Maria * All That I Am

[Pick up this CD at cdbaby.com.]

© 2002 - Eric Steiner