Customer Reviews

Asian Massive: A Six Degrees Collection

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This CD is a fitting introduction to the Asian Underground/Fusion movement, showcasing artists MIDIval PunditZ, Karsh Kale, DJ Cheb i Sabbah, and Zakhm. The songs feature lots of tabla, dreamy vocals, and pumpin' bass. Some tracks lean towards drum 'n bass, others are more ambient. However, the track listing, both here and on the CD, is wrong. #6 and #7 (which are both stand-out tracks) are switched. "Bhangra Fever" by MIDIval Punditz is definately #7! So I get the feeling this compilation was thrown together rather hastily. But its still a nice selection of tracks.

Six Degrees records is one of the pioneers of the whole ethnic-electronic movement and they have a reputation for signing the best up-and-coming acts. This compilation album highlights the work of some of their most successful artists such as Midival Punditz and Karsh Kale. Be aware that when they say "Asian" they mean "South Asian" so be prepared for heavy ...Indian beats and harmonizing

I love it. This has MIDIval PunditZ in it. This is a great cd. It has some music that MIDIval PunditZ has not released in their own Cd. Very good cd, the beats are good, and has that nice sound too it.

This album really grew on me. It's good to listen to when you work out...

Why only 2 stars? It was billed as something fresh and new... an underground treat. It was was none of the above. This coming from a big fan of this genre of music.

First off the title "Asia Massive" is a misnomer. There are no Japanese, Chinese or East Asian influences on this record. A better title would have been "Babylu" because the influences are distinctly Middle Eastern and Indian.

Normally I wouldn't make such a nationalistic recommendation, but these tunes could really benefit from more American influences, in particular funk, hip-hop and even some edgy rock chords thrown in for good measure. The syncopated drum kit programming on many of these tracks is distinctly of the soft CHEESE Euro disco variety. There is far too much female vocal whaling too... okay we like it, now just don't wear it out.

If want to spend your money on this genre, you'd do a lot better if you bought "Liberation" by Karsh Kale.