Reelection (Peaks & Valleys, 2006)

The Band Formerly Known as Shocks of Mighty returns with a new name, Raiz Muzik, and a seemingly newfound devotion -- not only to music (as indicated in their name), but also to things more spiritual and socio-political (as indicated in their lyrics). Their sound, thankfully, remains essentially the same -- easygoing, organic roots (perhaps a bit darker this go-round) bolstered by a luscious horn section -- but as the opening tracks indicate, the band (in particular lyricist and lead singer Sonny Romero) has more focused purpose in its music. "Deliver Me" leads off with a testament to faith in the face of worldly evils, while "Jah Light" paints a vulnerable portrait of someone coming to terms with his spirituality in light of his past indiscretions, its apologetic refrain a haunting catharsis: "To all the people I've mistreated in my life, I offer you apologies, my heart, and my sincerity." The group then abruptly switches to attack mode on the blazing title track, which questions the motives of politicians and ponders the point of a "reelection in Babylon". It even dips into the topical Mexican border issue with the line, "Gonna get told what to do by the wicked ones. / Gonna get told where to live by the Minute Men." "I Wanna Love You" shows that Raiz Muzik can still relax with a good old-fashioned love song, but Reelection is more concerned with heritage ("Weaving Baskets"), religion ("Hallelujah Time"), lecherous people ("Misery"), and mortality ("Dead and Gone"). It's a vital selection for roots fans. Hear the "muzik" at myspace.com/raizmuzik.