For the group's second CD,
Zazu,
Moodafaruka (loosely "mood of the dance") presents itself as a sextet -- Rom Ryan on lead guitar, Terrence Karn on percussion and vocals, Chris Lington on rhythm guitar, Arlandus Chimney on bass, Tairer Pagan on percussion, and Mary Ann Willis on violin. This CD is every bit as hot as its Texas roots. (These folks are from Houston.) Ryan composed ten of the 11 pieces. Karn co-wrote the other with Ryan, who also produced the disc. This music is vibrant and alive; it has soul to the tenth power. The positive energy comes from the bandmembers. They are having fun and it shows. They combine Latin, Middle Eastern, and Indian influences with worldbeat sensitivity. This is an essential disc. ~ Jim Brenholts