The fine print name that appears only on the album spine, Georgia Anne Muldrow is not on my listening radar nor did the label ring a bell. It appears she is an up and coming neo-soul singer, producer - a reference to `the female Madlib' speaks highly of her skills and talent. The sole reason to pick this up from Jazz Mart's bargain bin was the cool, dark cover and even more enigmatic name starring boldly, Ocotea. The only pieces of information to be found are the track listing and the description of the origins of the name and project. There are no personnel listed. It turns out this is Georgia's alter (jazz) ego, pseudo named under Jyoti. You will not hear a single word from her here.....
The Black Mother opens this dark journey filled with haunting keyboard vamps reminiscent of the heyday of In A Silent Way and all the magic that followed. Steady acoustic bass lines floating with the rhythm of the cymbals anxiously waiting for a horn to break in, but never giving in to that expectation. The Language of the Flame evokes the kind of "free-jazz" aimed at the 808 generation. Techno blips and programmed beats are the Eric Dolphy of the day!
The album continues its short 30 minute sonic journey of free funk, jazz and electronic souled out ambience. An absolutely brilliant effort that cements Coltrane (John, and esp. Alice), Arkestra, Sly and Hendrix to modern day stalwarts Tobin, Flanger and Squarepusher. Hoping we get a full length soon: Georgia Anne Muldrow (or esp Jyoti) is NOW on my listening radar.