GARAJ MAHAL
Mondo Garaj (Harmonized)
Reviewed by Erick Mertz

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It is the ultimate compliment to a jam band like Garaj Mahal to say that they're often played when the room fills with wine and the dark beer starts flowing. Few bands I feel I can personally trust with my Saturday nights around the crowded cabin, when the weather is cold and cheeks rosy with libations; these guys, along with the Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers, are my three lead dogs. Their funk is slow and inspirational, drawing comparisons to everyone from Herbie Hancock to Country Joe to John Coltrane from those who've stumbled across them here. Personally, I think it's better likened to the work on Brothers and Sisters, like "Whipping Post" with a Raga twist. I don't know for sure though, you'll have to come over.

© 2004 - Erick Mertz