Isaiah Katumwa - Coming Home

Published Wednesday 8th October 2008
Isaiah Katumwa - Coming Home
Isaiah Katumwa - Coming Home

STYLE: Jazz
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 48209-14362
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1
RRP: £12.00

Reviewed by George Luke

In times past Africa has produced some exceptional horn players. And now to a list that includes the likes of Hugh Masekela, Manu Dibango and the late Fela Kuti, we can add a new name: Isaiah Katumwa. Isaiah is a virtuoso saxophonist who hails from Uganda and he's credited in some circles as being East and Central Africa's finest sax player. More importantly - as far as CR is concerned, anyway - he's a committed believer, and although this album's mostly instrumental, it does feature his take on a few Ugandan gospel and worship songs. It's smooth jazz for the most part; the opening track "Welcome" is on a par with anything Kenny G, Mindi Abair or Najee and their ilk do regularly. Thankfully, though, there's a strong African element to Isaiah's sound which saves him from the "nice but bland" trap other smooth jazz saxophonists fall into all too easily. Witness "Just For U" for instance - a fantastic South African tune, or the closing track, his take on the Ugandan gospel song "Wa Milele" ("Everlasting"). It's not just Isaiah's sax playing that stands out here either; I must also commend the amusingly-monikered Johnny Bash on his terrific guitar work.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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Reader Comments

Posted by Zaina Mugagga in London @ 23:45 on Jan 29 2013

Wow that's what the Italians call " fantastical" God is great, your ministry is uplifting and ushers us in his presence. God has perfected everything that concerns you and your family. God bless



Posted by Masembe Christine in kampala, Uganda @ 08:42 on Jun 17 2011

God bless the work of your hands.....and keep up the good work. You inspire many.........Stay blessed



Posted by Miriam in London @ 18:01 on Nov 30 2010

My brother, i bless God for your life. You are truly anointed, you indeed carry the presence of the Lord when you minister and people are ushered into the presence of the Almighty either thro' worship or praise. Its awesome! May your head never lack oil and may your expectations never be cut, in Jesus' Mighty Name.
My love to Sheila and Mitch.

Aty Miriam.



Posted by Joselene in Kampala @ 10:11 on Jul 27 2010

I love jazz and Isaiah's music is superb. I call upon all Jazz lovers to buy his records and attend his shows.

Joselene



The opinions expressed in the Reader Comments are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms.

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