Record Collector Album Reviews The Bongolian

Published on 1st February 2002 (UK)

Media title : Record Collector

Bongo’ and ‘frenzy’ are two words guaranteed to bring a pained look to my face, but on the Bongolian’s eponymous debut album, there are also vibes, woodblocks and all manner of percussion instruments with a heavy dancefloor orientation. Part Sergio Mendes, part Incredible Bongo Band, the album was put together by someone who knows and loves his trade well. It’s not unfair to say that, if you don’t like the incessant chatter of the bongos or the whole 60s scene, then you’ll hate this. Aside from the obvious bongular activity there are frequent attempts at re-creating old breaks (try the main break in ‘Bongohead’), and it becomes clear that the Bongolian is as into new tunes as much as old ones, man. If beats are your thing, go ahead and get into it. But if you’re after something a little less, well, single-minded, you best give this one a miss.