Owl Dreams
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
Dharma Down, i.e. Duncan Hardy, Mike Effenberger, Scott Kiefner and John Mettam, come together for this genre defying debut that touches on East European and Middle Eastern Music.
The cultured and flowing “Jalla Man” opens with Hardy’s inticate qanun complementing Mettam’s agile drumming, and “Bubu Jinn” follows with a more dense appeal, where Hardy’s lively sax suits Kiefner’s meticulous bass prowess.
In the middle, “A Murder Of Cheerleaders” makes great use of Effenberger’s bouncy keys amid soaring sax, while “Among The Reeds” is a more intimate moment of dreaminess that blends the quartet’s inimitable talents with warmth.
Landing close to the end, “Jurlina”, the album’s best, carries a mesmerizing mood via the dynamic rhythm section and soulful sax, and “Thoughts And Prayers” finishes with a reflective tone that recruits bass plucking, mature keys and soft drums.
An eclectic and unique first album, Dharma Down take inspiration from American and Arabic traditions, and the mashing of modern jazz and middle eastern music yields both power and vulnerability.
Travels well with: Philip Weberndoerfer- Tides; Dred Scott- Cali Mambo