Scare Tactics

Nestled somewhere between Memphis funk, St. Louis jazz and the afro-rhythms of Cuba lives Asheville's "The Afromotive," a 10 piece afro beat, funk, jazz outfit that is clearly ready to unleash their musical melting pot on the world. Already with a reputation as a "must-see" live act, they've finally captured that energy and released their debut album.

"Scare Tactics," their first release, is filled with a little something for everyone. "Yako," the album's opener, with its shaking maracas, huge horn lines and a thumping bass line lets you know that it intends to take you on a musical and cultural ride. Vocals are almost secondary on this musical journey, but when lead singer Kevin Meyame speaks, it's worth listening to. "Do you believe what you see/and trust what you hear?" he asks almost sarcastically on the jazzy "Blinded pt. 1." The message is as heavy as the groove, but, fortunately, it doesn't get the way of the music. The music is clearly the star of this show, from the sparse "Doni-Doni" to the full JB's influenced "One Way to Go" this album doesn't stop the rock. As good as the music is on this album, I'm more than positive that live, these songs would take on a whole new personality because they leave much room for improvisation.

It's refreshing to hear groups like The Afromotive making music like this, especially in a time when jazz or jazz-influenced music is considered dead. Hopefully the renewed interest in artists like Fela Kuti will bring some light to "Scare Tactics" and they can scare the rest of the music industry to force people to start making real music again.