Babatunde And Phenomena

Levels Of Consciousness

This reissue of an LP cut for the Theresa label contains plenty of exciting music. Percussionist Babatunde Lea takes stirring solos and constantly inspires the ensembles and soloists during a generally high-powered set. The musicians were all based in San Francisco at the time, including guest soloists trumpeter Eddie Henderson and trombonist Julian Priester. The music is Afro-Cuban jazz with bits of 1970s electronics and funk added to the mix. But despite some R&B-ish vocals (which dominate a bit during the last few tracks) and commercial moments, the music is excellent, there are some strong solos.