Slow Motion

by Alex HendersonMore often than not, the steel pans are used for playing the traditional sounds of Trinidad. Andy Narell has successfully utilized them in a variety of non-traditional ways. On the ambitious and highly eclectic fusion release Slow Motion, elements of everything from Afro-Cuban salsa to Brazilian samba to African music are fair game for the adventurous, even visionary improviser (who is also heard on electric keyboards). Sometimes cerebral and sometimes romantic -- sometimes intense and sometimes reflective -- Slow Motion is one CD that cannot be accused of predictability. For those exploring Narell's music for the first time, this album would be an excellent starting point.