Perhaps more original than the quite original Erykah, N'Dambi is arguably the ultimate Neo Soul artist for '70's Jazz-Funk fans. As in this rising star's style is so complex, she's sort of not even "Neo" Soul. She feels like the real deal from back in the day — from many different, better days. Crossing well into Acid Jazz land, too.
These are The Six Degrees of N'Dambi, based on her superb, essential double-CD set from 2002, Tunin Up & Cosignin...
First Degree: True to the meaning of her name, this Dallas-based diva's work is "most beautiful." Her raw emotion and adeptness with classic funk rhythms is as finely tuned as Bilal's. In fact, in some way, I consider N'Dambi the female answer to Bilal and wish these two would get together in a studio sometime. But where Bilal takes powerful hip-hop turns, N'Dambi masterfully dives into pure jazz, deftly scatting when the mood strikes.
Second Degree: That laid-back sound that put Erykah on the map? N'Dambi has this gift, too. They both exude a talent for breeziness that says, "I'm way too busy telling you what's up here, pouring out my heart — and having fun doing it — to fret singing within the commercial norm." N'Dambi doesn't have a pretentious atom in her voice. Au natural and earthy.
Third Degree: Heavy (and these days rare) use of live studio musicians that jam in the style of Chaka Khan's killer band, Rufus. However, N'Dambi's band throws down serious jazz, too. There's consistently flawless bass work going on, at times reminding me of Ron Carter (the genius behind Badu's Certainly) or the spirited Marcus Miller. (Check out producer Kenneth Crouch's bananas bass in Black Star, with it's Chaka-esqe hook!!!) The musicanship on this double-CD is simply off the chain.
Fourth Degree: N'Dambi sometimes triggers a double-take with her pared down, plain-truth sound, "neo reincarnating" Nina Simone. (Check out Ode 2 Nina and Crazy World.) I'll even say that her unique way is to purposely venture into tricky pitches at times. And it's cool as all get-out! Somewhat like Cassandra Wilson, N'Dambi is fearless about doing her own distinctive styling (but alternately a delicate soprano and feisty alto).
Article comments
1 - Debra Ross
Yeah! Great update about one of my favorite artists. It's been a long time coming. I'm sure N'dambi's new album will be just a flawless as the previous releases.
2 - Ruff 1
Agree 100%. This is one of the best neo soul CDs ever. Hope N'Dambi breaks the sound barrier with this one, kind of the way that Lizz Wright has. They're different, but equally immensely in talent.
3 - Gael
Nice article about N'dambi, who will always be one of my favorites, as she is truly gifted. Fyi though, I heard that concert at S.O.B. has been postponed. I hope things for the new CD come together real soon.
4 - lollonne
very nice