Calasanitus
Self-Released, 2023
9/10
A steel pan wizard, Leon Foster Thomas brings us songs dedicated to his mother that embrace Caribbean influences and welcomes some excellent guests to the 7 tracks.
“I Am An Immigrant” opens the listen with John Daversa’s precise trumpet and Michael Ramos’ meticulous bass populating the rich and dreamy climate, and “Silent Maze” follows with hypnotic keys from Tal Cohen and Troy Roberts’ sublime sax prowess making for an atmospheric, heartfelt delivery.
“Dance Of David” and “Cheers” occupy the middle spots, where the former hosts expressive vocals from Antonia N. Wilson, Faith Lowe and Donald A. Lowe Jr. for the intimate landscape, while the latter allows for Thomas’ steel pan to emit much grace and beauty in the soft demeanor.
The final track, “Ascension”, is the best, and benefits much from Michael Piolet’s firm drums and the rhythmic bass alongside the steel pan acrobatics of the unique energy.
Thomas has enjoyed an esteemed career working alongside legends like Hugh Masekela, Randy Brecker and Dolly Parton, to name a few, and this very uplifting body of work will be sure to impress longtime fans and reel in new ones, too.
Travels well with: Pat Petrillo Big Rhythm Band- The Power Station Sessions; Jakob Dreyer- Songs, Hymns And Ballads Vol. 2