OZOMATLI

This multi-cultural Latin-American rock/funk/pop aggregation first came to public attention in the late '90s with an eclectic, groove-heavy approach and a celebratory aesthetic that endeared them to all comers. On EMBRACE THE CHAOS, Ozomatli continues to nurture their broad vision while venturing into new areas. While the album opens on a relatively familiar note with the undulating Latin rhythms of "Pa Lante," the scenario shifts in short order, as De La Soul adds rap vocals to the funky "1234." Underground rapper common also lends a hand, adding his lyrical skills to the album's title track. The wandering piano, moody horns, and atmospheric that introduce the instrumental interlude "Pensativo" could have come straight off a mid-'60s Pharoah Sanders album. A Cuban groove is embraced on the sprightly "Timido," and hints of everything from samba to salsa crop up elsewhere. Ultimately, EMBRACE THE CHAOS makes Ozomatli's broad stylistic leaps seem deceptively linear.

Estimated despatch 5-10 days after ordering.