Tomás Doncker – The Mess We Made | Album Review

thomasdonckercdTomás Doncker – The Mess We Made

tomasdoncker.net

True Groove Records

songs-8 time-34:16

The revolution will not be televised, rather Tomás Doncker will speak on it in his new CD. It actually does owe a debt to Gil Scott-Heron who wrote the aforementioned song. The CD is mainly a commentary on the state of black oppression in the U.S.A.. The cover art also conveys that in scenes depicting police brutality, riots and anti-black signage. The message is the main thing here. The music is very rhythmic and basic. Tomás was the lead guitarist with the NYC based No-Wave band James Chance And The Contortions. His guitar playing here is very limited. He possesses a warm and enjoyable voice. Tomás is the CEO of True Groove Records based out of New York. This CD has nothing to do with the blues, but it is a creative urban funk-based reflection of the black experience, often reminding one of Sly Stone and Gil Scott Heron among others.

Tomás uses a hushed voice on the racial commentary “Some Ol’ Dolls”, that features a funky groove where electronic noises, harmonica and banjo pop up over a programmed drum track. “Church Is Burning” concerns itself about violence directed at black people and contains a really nifty distorted keyboard riff. “I’m callin’ bullsh*t while the revolution looking for corporate sponsorship” is the oft repeated sentiment in “The Revolution”. “The Mess We Made” is something similar to what Gil Scott-Heron did…Fast flowing images to a jazzy groove. Tomás comments on the racial climate in America.

“Don’t Let Go” is an anthem to perseverance featuring strummed acoustic guitar over a synthesizer “wash”. The violence perpetrated on blacks is the subject of “Blood And Concrete” set over funky horns and synth noises. Tomás takes on U2’s “Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”. With its’ thumping bass it starts life pretty close to the original then gets funked up. It includes a bit of Sly And the Family Stone’s “The Same Thing”. “Time Will Tell” conveys a similar sentiment to that of “Don’t Let Go”. It contains a nifty guitar riff as well.

Tomás accomplished is goal of an over view of the condition of the black situation in America today, utilizing his expressive voice set against some well crafted, funky music. It’s preachy while being musically moving at the same time. A refreshing and rewarding journey is the gift here-in.

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