Modern-day Stax soul dynamo N'dambi brings the heat to Nashville; plus a roundup of world-music releases

By Ron Wynn

Published on March 05, 2010 at 11:07am

Global Roundup

Sambada, Gente! (Santa Cruz)

A West Coast ensemble combining Brazilian vocalists with American instrumentalists and singers, Sambada's third disc mixes exuberant samba and funk with bits of rock and even soca on the opening selection. The group barrels ahead through 10 selections, with Papiba Godinho and Dandha Da Hora swapping lead and complimentary roles on compositions enhanced by robust arrangements. Anne Stafford serves as principal soloist, inserting bluesy sax or lithe flute contributions within the array of textures created by a five-member corps of percussionists. Sambada also tabs special guests like electric guitarist Camilo Landau, vocalists Dandara and Graca Onasile and turntablist Dee Jay Kikkoman, all of whom excel on "Casa De Mainha" and the flamboyant remixed finale "Sangue Africano" respectively. Still, it's Sambada's energetic front line that brings the heat and passion on this fine collection of upbeat, dance-oriented works.