Armchair Generals - The Armchair Generals EP (2011)

Brisk, bold and chock full of multiple emotions and influences----the trio united during a firestorm of global and political unrest in 2004 and have been creating together ever since.

As eclectic as their names (Osoosi 7, Bebo 6 and Oyani 9), the Armchair Generals are all over the musical landscape with their style: there's the coherent R&B-flavored riffs (immediately apparent in "Sunday Morning," thanks to a chorus that mimics the 80s smash "Saturday Love"), pulsing house and jazz fusion ("Way Out"), the languid and hypnotic calm of "Relajate" and the irresistible "Daydreamer," which is has a plucky bottom, but vocals from Ms. Oyani 9 that smooth and scintillate.

By the time one gets to the final track of the EP (a gentle tempest entitled "Clear") it's probably apparent that this type of music isn't heard as much as it is experienced----there are no catchy choruses, few lyrics and no overproduced gloss or swagger. What remains, however, are well-produced musical selections that may, to some, seem rough or incomplete, but to others will feel imaginative and without boundaries. The acoustics and keyboards mesh well together, and Oyani 9 is aware that her voice is a delicate one, so she doesn't push it or over-sing, which results in a sound that doesn't clash with the feel or the intent.

 Will the Armchair Generals appeal to the average listener? Probably not, but that doesn't mean that they aren't worth the effort. Unconventional, yet appealing, the three-member collective won't resonate with everyone, but those willing to groove with them should enjoy the ride.  

Vocals: 3.0
Lyrics: n/a Music: 3.5
Production 4.0
Soultracks call: Cautiously Recommended

By Melody Charles