Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal's progression from archaic country blues to a more broadly based involvement in
black folk forms has been a singular and sometimes confusing odyssey. He has
backtracked, dabbled in soul music, explored preblues and even made a cursory
investigation of African instruments. Sometimes his voice has come through clearly;
sometimes mannerisms have obscured style. Mo' Roots is his most eclectic album... More >

Taj hies to the West Indies, singing part of "Cajun Waltz" in French and part of "Why Did You Have to Desert Me?" in Spanish and translating "Blackjack Davy" into reggae. Reggae predominates, a natural extension of his sleepy, sun-warmed blues. But that doesn't mean you wouldn't rather hear the Slickers do "Johnny Too Bad." (Grade: B+)