Led by Czech-born guitarist Honza Kourimsky, Mahuki is a funky, versatile ensemble whose debut CD recalls everything from Ezra Collective to Balkan and Eastern European folk music.
Gratitude is a fusion record that deftly hops between musical influences, from synchronised afro-beat inflected horn lines on Warrior Path to Latin influences, and dub basslines.
Across its ten tracks, the listener is offered moments of stillness, cross-cultural sound mash-ups and ear-worm inducing hooks. Kourimsky’s deft guitar playing weaves its way through the set. Obsolete Absolute. Pt 1 sees the guitar work over the Ezra-like brass lines shift from slinky and funky to all-out rock power.
Gratitude manages to wear its influences on its sleeve without sounding derivative. Every combination of sound is highly considered and the compositions’ originality and flair highlighted by multi-layered arrangements. The addition of strings throughout the record adds emotional depth.
Kourimsky has summed up the feel of the record, stating that, “The album is a personal journey through the tapestry of invaluable lessons and cherished moments. Each track serves as a heartfelt ode to the values that have become my guiding lights in the pursuit of balance and happiness, and a tribute to the different musical cultures I have been lucky enough to experience.”
The album closer Presence furnishes a soul-stirring end to the set. It features trumpeter James Brady, whose languid, breathy tones combine perfectly with the guitar to round things off in a contemplative mood.
Kourimsky is clearly a skilled bandleader and composer backed by a tight ensemble, creating memorable tunes that measure up well against anything created by his contemporaries. The switches between influences and moods, sometimes within a particular track, are inspired and all contribute to a thrilling debut album.
