Delhi2dublin

Mixing seemingly disparate world music styles is often a dubious exercise, so a fusion of bhangra, Celtic, electronica and dub sounds like a recipe for disaster. Happily, this Vancouver, BC-based quintet avoid potential pitfalls by gleefully mashing up styles with enthusiasm and skill. Their 2007 self-titled debut and a high-energy live set quickly made them favourites on the festival circuit, and Planet Electric will likely boost their profile. There's some fine toasting on "Raise It Up," though the reggae feel and lyrics on "S.O.S." are a bit banal. The interplay between sitar, Indian violin and Celtic fiddle works well on "Laughing Buddha," while the infectious grooves on "Harmonizin" are sure to make it a live highlight. Closing track "Bodega Ridge" has a more contemplative feel, making for a nice change of pace. Mixing by noted UK producer Diamond "Swami" Duggal adds a nice sheen, unlike the rather lurid Bollywood-style cover art. This is a solid effort.