(July 25, 2024) Every song on Jaragua’, the new album from Latin Funk band Mestizo Beat, sounds like it could have been played during the opening credits of a 1970s Blaxploitation flick, or during the chase scene of a detective television show from the same era. Anyone who grew up on “Shaft” or “Starsky and Hutch” knows that’s high praise.
This music is cinematic. It evokes a certain vibe and attitude and it’s downright funky. All but one the 10 instrumental tracks. The one vocal track is “II The Deepcyde,” which is the tune featured in this First Listen. “Deepcyde” would be the cut playing during the pivotal scene when the movie’s hero realizes his true calling or summons the courage to confront the villain.
The song has all the elements, including a killer arrangement featuring percussion, a popping bass line on which to hang some tight horn harmonization, and guitar riffs that move from jazz influenced to wah wah funk. Then there are the vocals from guest singer Jamie Allenswoth.
Allenworth’s gritty and rangy vocals take listeners to the church of funk. He can improvise on the theme, growl, holler and engage in call and response with his backing vocalists. The song itself invites us listeners to go into those places that might be a bit uncomfortable but will be ultimately fulfilling if we we’re willing to take the plunge. The entire album is a great ride, and “II The Deepcyde” represents the quality music heard on Jaragua’. You can check it out here.
By Howard Dukes
