Guru - The Best Of Guru’s Jazzmatazz

The Best Of Guru’s Jazzmatazz

Guru, one half of hip-hop duo Gang Starr, began his collaborative excursions into jazz and soul in 1993, bringing with him a myriad of singers, rappers and star name instrumentalists. In this round-up of the first three albums, those include the cool piano of Lonnie Liston Smith (Down The Backstreets), a rather more chaotic but groovy contribution from Ramsey Lewis and Bahamadia (Respect The Architect) and the restless storytelling of Sights In The City, aided by Courtney Pine and Carleen Anderson. Guru’s distinctive rap can occasionally dominate to the detriment of his guests, with Mica Paris adding little more than a straight chorus to Looking Through Darkness. In its best moments, however, it can beautifully complement individual vocalists such as Erykah Badu and Kelis, who bring delightful lasciviousness to their guest turns. With bonus remix material included, this is a studied and respectful fusion of styles.

Virgin/EMI | 5190592

Reviewed by Ben Hogwood
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