Bring on the Sun

New age guru Laraaji released two recordings in September of 2017, and while the Sun Gong EP focused on a single instrument and mood, the full-length Bring on the Sun is one of the more diverse entries in his catalog. Its eight pieces range from lengthy, uncomplicated drifts to shorter, more active compositions, exploring several different instruments. "Harmonica Drone" does exactly what the title states; Laraaji's bluesy harmonica floats untethered over crystalline droning. "Enthusiasm" features intimately plucked strings and spiritual organ, with Laraaji's passionate, non-lyrical vocals surfacing halfway through the piece. "Laraajazzi" has kalimbas and electronically altered vocals, and while it doesn't necessarily sound like jazz, it expresses undeniable joy and spontaneity. "Change" is a folky pep talk with acoustic guitars, warm laughter, and encouragement to embrace change. On "Reborn in Virginia," he tells a heartfelt story of time spent in Virginia with his grandparents when he was a child, over relaxing tambura and tablas. "Open the Gift" is maybe the most "new age"-sounding track here, with fluid synths setting a backdrop for Laraaji's suggestions to "undo the rhythms of negative thinking." He then provides 16 minutes of purifying sound-wash on his signature instrument for the album's conclusion, "Ocean Flow Zither." Introspective in personal as well as universal ways, Bring on the Sun is an excellent sampler of Laraaji's many strengths. [The CD edition of Bring on the Sun includes Sun Gong as a second disc.] ~ Paul Simpson