INSINERATEHYMN

Description

Critics from around the world agreed that In the World—From Natchez to New York by Olu Dara was one of the best albums of 1998. The only problem was, in which category? Jazz? Dara came to this album with impeccable credentials in the genre, having played with David Murray, James "Blood" Ulmer, Henry Threadgill, and Don Pullen. However, while Dara sometimes showcases his polished cornet sound, he more often plucks the guitar than plays the trumpet on this record. And even though there is undeniably a bit of that arpeggiated African guitar sound in his playing, it would be an exaggeration to label In the World as a "world music" release. No, in the end, it's a country blues album born from the urban jungle, an absolutely charming tour, all in one, from Natchez to New York, with perhaps Nairobi, with a bit of extra urban flavor thanks to Dara's rapper, Nas, who contributes vocals on "Jungle Jay."