Nathaniel Saunders
Bimini Nights
Victory World
Take a fat calypso combo, throbbing and sizzling like tropical rain on a tin shack. Weave some frenetic banjo around it. And now, vocals like Joe Strummer with a head cold.
I’d wager this is not for everybody. In fact, most of you have already decided one way or another by now. But to not say a few extra words about Saunders’ startling howls and frantic strumming, and the bands’ festive spirit, wouldn’t hurt. Nathaniel “Piccolo Pete” Saunders has been in the biz for 70 years, and his ease of style, undisciplined as it may be, is infectious. The band finds a simple groove and nails it down quite capably, and bring a fair bit of variety to the arrangements, from the fast-paced “Balamina” to the rollicking “Big Fat Slob.”
Recorded on location in Bimini (boy, that must have sucked), this is a modern equivalent to an Alan Lomax field recording, capturing a great musical spirit and culture for the rest of the world. A fascinating document and a wonderful musical workout, this music has a sincerity that’s hard-to-find these days. Get this for your next tropical mood.
Victory Records: http://www.victoryrecords.com/
