Fire in the Engine Room (2000)

About this title: The insert to Andy Narell's ultra festive Fire in the Engine Room perfectly explains the concept of the recording -- to feature the steel pan master's interaction with the "Engine Room," which is defined as the rhythm section of a steel band. While Narell's choice of instrument makes pretty much everything he's ever appeared on sound like the musical equivalent of a tropical vacation, this is one of his least poppy, most inventive efforts. On the opening cut, "C hakalaka," he zips along happily, floating a vibrant pan melody over Mario Lanonge's colorful, improv-laden piano harmonies. Then ... read more

Tracks:

1. Chakalaka [Narell]
2. Unusual Bird [Narell]
3. Coffee Street [Narell]
4. Blue Mazooka [Narell]
5. The Long Way Back [Narell]
6. Tabanca [Narell]
7. Appreciation [Narell]
8. Stutter Step [Narell]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.