Review of Pacha Massive's "If You Want It"
Bronx Band Expands Global Feel With Guest Vocalists
Sep 4, 2009
The band’s debut in 2005 incorporated Caribbean rhythms such as Cuban son and dancehall reggae with drum and bass and electronica. Pacha Massive has been favorably compared to Massive Attack and Thievery Corporation.
“If You Want It” on MySpace, iTunes
“If You Want It,” their second album, is playing on the band’s MySpace page now and will be available on ITunes Sept. 8. The disc, on Nacional Records, will be in stores Sept. 22.
The title track is dreamy and floats on a solid rhythm with vocals from Zigmat’s Monica Rodriguez. Pacha Massive’s songs are often bilingual. Rodriguez also guests on “Tonight” and “Lejos Cerca.” Wright sings in English on “Take the Wheel,” which adds some rocking spice to the usual sensual beats. Valenzuela adds her voice to “Thinking About You.”
“Tonight” is an insistent piece with easy, dub-like vocals. The song has a trancelike quality, with the looping vocals building to a gentle peak.
Pacha Massive’s Global Outlook
Bandleaders Ramon “DJ” Nova and bassist Maya have often expressed their desire to make global music in keeping with the international spice of their native New York. Nova is Dominican, but easily embraces neighboring rhythms like reggaeton and cumbia.
A good example of is the tune “Pacha Llego.” The stutter-step beat of reggaeton blends with electronica touches. The song is the best of what Latin alternative music can be – grounded in cultural touchstones with unexpected modern diversions.
A favorite track on “If You Want It” is “For A While.” Horns are drizzled over the rhythm like honey while DJ Nova insists that a lover remain. The beat is relaxed and dreamlike. This is a song that makes you want to turn down the lights and snuggle.
“Right Now” adds some rocking guitar to drum and bass. The songs hits quick and exits cleanly, but the riffs will stick in min for the rest of the day.
Seeing Pacha Massive Live
Pacha Massive is playing a pair of shows for the release of “If You Want It.” You can see the band on Sept. 22 at Joe’s Pub in Manhattan and on Sept. 26 at Club Liv in Washington DC. The band’s live shows are electrifying if their outing at Central Park Summerstage during a recent Latin Alternative Music Conference was any indication.
If you can’t make either of the release shows, make a point of finding “If You Want It.” Pacha Massive is maturing as a band, which makes their latest a compelling and enjoyable effort.
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