Afro-futurist pop-rock artist Moken unveils his superb third album, An African Island in an American City, a 15-track collection of music highlighted by a freewheeling melting-pot aesthetic.
Moken explains, “On ‘An African island in an American City,’ I literally use my guitar’s fretboard as my emotional GPS, building the album on surprise songs like ‘Hold On To Your Dream,’ ‘Jealous Jesus’ and ‘JealouSea’ – songs that emerge from my belief in the magic of the moment and musical spontaneity taking flight. I also invent my own chords from these abstract musical flights and rely on the feelings they evoke – following them as they take off, abstracting my vocal range to whatever emotions and messages the songs unravel.”
His genre-breaking sound blends elements of Afrobeat, Makossa, West African palm-wine music, blues, jazz, rock n’ roll, American folk, and EDM, with influences from Francis Bebey, Miriam Makeba, Nina Simone, Fela Kuti, Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, James Brown, and Nat “King” Cole.
Originally from Cameroon, after winning a green card lottery, Moken migrated to the U.S., landing in Detroit, where he worked, went to school, and lived in his car to save money. Later, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia to focus on music.
Entry points on the album include the opener, “Island Life,” riding a vibrant rhythm topped by hints of Americana and Celtic savors. A thrilling falsetto juxtaposes against Moken’s evocative baritone, imbuing the lyrics with vitalizing energy.
Whereas “Thanksgiving Island” summons up suggestions of George Thorogood, with its growling, blues rock guitars and tight, slick rhythmic motion. Moken’s rasping vocals recall the throaty timbres of Billy Gibbons.
A personal favorite because of its swaying movement, “Blood River” features Moken’s warbling voice as he confronts his family’s desertion. There’s a profound poignancy to the lyrics.
“Now I am free, now I am safe, singing this song, for you to know / Blood river, blood river, blood river / I have been swimming in you for fifty years / Blood river, river of my blood, river of my bloooode / I have been swimming in you for fifty years.”
“Worldmanizer” delivers country flavors atop a dance-lite rhythm as Moken’s flexible vocals imbue the lyrics with extraordinary chirrupy, breathy nuances. Drenched in retro pop-rock aromas, “Glory Days” glides forth on creamy harmonics. A dazzling guitar solo gives the tune a charming wistfulness.
Another favorite because of its Latin jazz-laced surfaces, “The Beginning Of Something” showcases a compelling trombone.
“Nin NSang” rides a thumping kick-drum, accenting percussion, and a gleaming acoustic folk guitar as Moken’s trilling vocals infuse the lyrics with luscious vibrato tones.
Decorated by the incredible chameleon-like voice of Moken, An African Island in an American City is a magnificent work of art.
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