BAKA BEYOND

Rhythm Tree

March Hare 20

Last spring I was fortunate to catch multi-national ensemble Baka Beyond in concert.  Including members from England, France, Cameroon, Senegal and Ghana, they put on a fantastic show, presenting a joyful blend of music and dance, fusing English, Celtic and African styles.  Needless to say I was excited about hearing Rhythm Tree, which explores further the group’s influences from and collaborations with the Baka people of southeast Cameroon.

What makes Baka Beyond stand apart from the plethora of multi cultural projects being produced these days is that they are a real band. Not only are there no banks of electronic equipment, but after seeing the group perform, you’ll realize the members have developed a fantastic chemistry every piece gels perfectly and nothing is smothered. 

Unfortunately an audio CD can’t present the colorful costumes and dancing you’ll witness at a Baka Beyond concert. However, you will discover that the different musical elements mix surprisingly well together and the band’s infectious energy comes through strongly on this studio recording. 

For example. “Sad Among Strangers” is based on a Scottish “Waulking” song.  Su Hard and Denise Lowe harmonize gracefully in Gaelic while percussionists beat on a variety of hand drums.  Electric guitar bursts pop in and out, and sweet whistle phrases waft over all.  Supple electric bass underlines the whole arrangement. On “Kobo,” Celtic styled fiddle riffs are layered over percussion and intricate African styled guitar picking.  “La Londe” is a likely Baka children’s song that is coupled here with a reel composed by violinist Paddy Le Mercier.  The violin carries the main melody line and is supported largely by hand percussion. 

No question Baka Beyond is one of the most successful multi national/ multi ethnic bands active right now.  They’re a pleasure both to listen to and to watch. I understand a live CD ma be forthcoming and am looking forward to that. 

KR