For the most part, Paris-based group the Afrorockerz satisfyingly mix elements of funk, soul and Afrobeat, and have the vibe down pat. As conceived by guitarist Julian Raulet, the funk-fusion sound is generally on point, but the vocal performances on most of the tracks weigh things down.
There are a lot to things to like on this release — Raulet and accompanying bassist Sylvain Daniel have a strong handle on funk groove ("I Was Blind") and Afrobeat vibes ("You Need Me") — but singers Allonymous and Emma Lamadji, however, are still seeking their chemistry; the vibrant Afrobeat rhythms on a song like "Talking in Rings" or "Hearts And Lines" are deflated by vocals that aren't up to the task. As a debut project, there is definitely room to grow for the Afrorockerz, and no doubt the band fare better in a live environment, but their studio sound isn't quite there yet.
(Buda Musique)There are a lot to things to like on this release — Raulet and accompanying bassist Sylvain Daniel have a strong handle on funk groove ("I Was Blind") and Afrobeat vibes ("You Need Me") — but singers Allonymous and Emma Lamadji, however, are still seeking their chemistry; the vibrant Afrobeat rhythms on a song like "Talking in Rings" or "Hearts And Lines" are deflated by vocals that aren't up to the task. As a debut project, there is definitely room to grow for the Afrorockerz, and no doubt the band fare better in a live environment, but their studio sound isn't quite there yet.