Search - Mujaji :: Free Rain

Mujaji reigns supreme

C. G. | Atlanta, GA | 05/09/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I find it rather amusing that many people are calling 2001 "The Year of Downtempo", when what it really is is a revival of sorts. 1996 was the year when downtempo/acid jazz/trip hop/whatever you want to call it hit its peak, and then subsequently went dormant for a few years. Most of the truly great downtempo albums (released on the Mole, Cup of Tea, Ninja Tune, and Shadow labels, to name a few) came out during this short period, but many labels are now defunct, and their catalogues have long since been deleted. However, Shadow Records has helped keep this style of music alive and well, and even with the recent flood of downtempo albums lately (some excellent, some decidedly subpar), the label's new releases still manage to stand out...Mujaji's Free Rain is one of these. There have been several Mujaji singles available for a while on Shadow compilation CDs; most of these tracks are located on Free Rain, along with several newer songs. The entire album flows quite nicely, and the group seems to take a minimalist style to sampling...but the samples they choose are excellent. Their sound is similar in style to that of 9 Lazy 9 or Diferenz(with some nice live instrumentation and an organic, cinematic feel), but I was actually reminded of the Chris Bangs-produced ensemble Urchin (on Waveform) during many songs; dark, ominous, and mysterious. No real vocals to speak of, which actually helps the group break away from the typical trip-hop formula (beats, strings, and a female singer)...a formula which I know and LOVE, but I like hearing something different for a change. If you are new to this genre of music, definitely pick this up, and then try to get some of the older Shadow and Ninja Tune releases. Big props to Shadow for their new pricing scheme as well...great music for a great price always makes me a happy camper! Can't wait for the next album coming down the pipes - Saru's Downtempo Dojo...now, anyone know where I can get Free Rain on vinyl?"

Atmospheric Cinematic Downtempo Classic :o)

C. G. | 03/31/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD, similar to the work of Amon Tobin, is difficult to categorize. It's a bit of a mix of sample-heavy, downtempo groovy/jazzy beats, bassy atmospherics, almost haunting sounds, but altogether entrancing! For the price (under ten bills as of 3/04) you really can't go wrong. It's not as seamless as Amon's work but there is a cohesiveness nonetheless and not really a filler track in the mix. A few vocals here and there don't detract at all but just the opposite help to mix it up nicely. Here's hoping they put out another disc soon! Another fine Shadow records release :o)"

Dutch Brothers

andrew | Madison, WI | 06/07/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Mujaji is truly a rare beast. A group with imagination, charisma and an unyielding devotion to sonic excellence. The best tracks here are "Southern Light Rollerama" and "Free the Rich" but the others will hardly upset the listener of taste. The only question that remains is, can you be that listener?"