Harbor Nights by Mbandi evokes the many moods of an island seashore retreat. The music mingles smoothly flowing melodies
with gentle exotic rhythms from Africa and the Caribbean that refresh like a tropical breeze.
There is a decidedly neon midnight feel to the dark moody ambience of “Let’s Dance” the is reminiscent of Jan Hammer, Barry
Cleveland, or Peter Baumann (with, in a completely unique Mbandi twist, authentic African rhythms added). The title track “Harbor
Nights” deepens this experience with its sharp, almost clipped, piano delivery and sheer ambient textures. Subtly energizing rhythms
with breathy vocal and pan-flute accents on “Tribal Dance” bring to min tracks by Cusco, Jim Pietkivitch or Mark Isham, as Mbandi
uses a minimalist, cyclic base rhythm on which to float shimmering textures that whisk away the imagination to sunny shores and
warm, deep blue waters.
The beautiful piano-strings ballad “Dear Mother” is a warm and emotive as any tune by American composers David Lanz, Michael
Jones or Jim Brickman (whose album was the first ever purchased by Mbandi). Bridging the classical and contemporary with light-filled
music and lyrical flow, Mbandi conveys both tender nostalgia and sweet yearning without becoming overly sentimental; the result is
serene, tranquil and surprisingly elegant. A live favourite, “The Forgotten Child” is also included here; its rich layers of strings enhance
a delicate piano melody that is positively pretty as well as emotionally deep.
“Could It Be” features vocalist Alfreda Gerald, famous for her performances with Yanni at India’s Taj Mahal and China’s Forbidden City. Additional viola and violin parts on “Finding Hope” and “The Forgotten Child” are by George Riley. Piano and other instruments sounds by Mbandi, who composed, produced and arranged all songs on “Harbor Nights”.
