BAM

by Jonathan E.

Jai Uttal reaches a new level of self-assurance and expression on his third Triloka release, Beggars and Saints. It's not that the first two were bad, but both had a definite feeling of searching--the diamonds were most definitely in the rough. Uttal may still be searching spiritually, but musically he just doesn't put a foot wrong in his imaginary journey through India with excursions to the lands of jazz and reggae--and even to the new state of country & eastern. His sparse vocals have become genuinely comfortable with a well-worn huskiness that is appealing and evocative. This show is to celebrate the release of the album. It's a 1002 Nights production from Cheb i Sabbah, so expect lots of extras with the Najmandali Dancers, an Indian bazaar, chai tea, Lichen's Black light ambiance, henna hand painting, and, of course, Cheb's divine selection of tunes.