Once known as Solesides, Quannum has been a prime destination for indie-hop, thanks to its star chamber,which includes DJ Shadow, Blackalicious and more. In October, it will splice some laid-back Sao Paulo funk into its DNA with the release of Curumin’s JapanPopShow.
Just watch out for those Os Mutantes comparisons.
To be sure, the chilled croon of Curumin sometimes resembles Jack Johnson more than it does Los Bros Baptista, especially on the streamed version of "Compacto" below. But stick around for the psychedelic guitar solo on the hyperactive "Magrela Fever" or the groovy stomp of "Sambito," and you might end up believing he’s a long-lost Mutant. He’s already a Jedi disciple, as the poster above for Curumin’s show in 2004 illustrates rather nicely.
STREAM: Curumin’s "Compacto"
Whatever you want to call him, Quannum and Curumin prove that hip-hop’s vitality is alive and well, thanks. Like other musical forms, it’s got serious gravitational pull, and can merge with rock, samba, pop or whatever with ease. So kick back, loop "Compacto" and let Listening Post know what you think. If that tune is too mellow for you, jump on Curumin’s MySpace page for more energetic sonics.
Photo: Curumin/MySpace
