Drumhand return with another release that calls upon a full sound inspired by world music with a jazz basis. With Cheer On The Sun the band takes you across the ocean to find sounds of West Africa and India. They travel south for inspiration from Cuba and Brazil. They return to Canada with some Native American chants building the melodies, like in "Our Native Land". The music drives you out of your seat to move. Their jazz is more attuned to the beat of a party than that of a lounge. Still, the music of Drumhand strikes some poignant social chords either by utilizing influences from the world's many cultures or with vocals that sing of the human condition, such as "Hourglass".

A brass and saxophone section adds some great dynamic melodies to the songs while the ubiquitous poly-meter drumming keeping the rhythm rooted. Chants further enrich the sound. From flute to horns, saxophones to drums, the variety of instruments enhances the album’s message.

The sound of Cheer On The Sun captures Drumhand's amazing, seamless blend of cultures and sounds into this exciting package. This is more than just an album of songs to get up and groove to, it leaves you with a message to connect to the world and listen more deeply.

By Hayley Muir
May 16, 2013