At first listen, Ajoyo serves up a convoluted mix of West African sounds layered in modern, slow-groove jazz, with hints of guitar riffs that take you back to the '80s; for a second, you forget where you are. As you listen to the track "Idanwo" and "Sokeijo" gives you hints of highlife reminiscent of Fela Kuti, you'd almost forget that you're listening to a modern jazz record, were it not for the moments in between. On "The Pearl," lead vocalist Sarah Elizabeth Charles brings smoothness to the already existing mellow groove.
Ajoyo deliver a record mixed with tracks that are both danceable and grooveable; the unexpected smooth soul mirrors the eclectic makeup of the band itself, as members of the group hail from North Africa, New York and New Orleans. The bouillon served up on Ajoyo is sure to satisfy any listener with an ear for both rhythm and soul.
(Ropeadope)Ajoyo deliver a record mixed with tracks that are both danceable and grooveable; the unexpected smooth soul mirrors the eclectic makeup of the band itself, as members of the group hail from North Africa, New York and New Orleans. The bouillon served up on Ajoyo is sure to satisfy any listener with an ear for both rhythm and soul.