Gaining momentum from the past releases of two critically acclaimed full-lengths LPs is
Encounters, a star-laden masterpiece of a gem by the
Sofa Surfers. This is one of a rare few concept albums to reach the listening public during this new millennium that has such flair, creativity, and immediacy. Cracking xenophobia and geo-social barriers,
Encounters brings to the table a charming list of multi-talented singers from all walks of life, with influences teeming from multiple cultures and musical lands. Folk-blues star
Jeb Loy Nichols is featured here, as well as
Pop Group/Maffia singer
Mark Stewart; reggae king
Junior Delgado; and hip-hoppers
Dalek,
Sensational, and MC Santana. The lyrical expression and the delivery of the lyrics over a breathtaking musical and percussive beat foray are chilling and pristine. An eclectic album both lyrically and instrumentally, flavors of reggae, hip-hop, and a touch of the psychedelic are presented nicely with great taste. The themes expressed on this record are everything through the spectrum of dark and evil, to love and the ethereal. An edge-of-your-seat, spine-tingling listening experience,
Encounters by the
Sofa Surfers is everything a concept album should be and more. For greater pleasure and delight, this piece of art must be digested repeatedly in fragments in order for it to grow with the listener. ~ Shawn M. Haney