Turn On the Sunlight (Carlos Niño & Jesse Peterson)
Turn On the Sunlight
Disques Corde

Local radio fans probably know Carlos Niño as host of the cosmic Spaceways show on the revolutionary KPFK. But he’s also an artist and music producer extraordinaire who’s worked with the likes of Cut Chemist and Mia Doi Todd; more recently, he also spearheaded the peace-promoting experimental jazz super-group To Build an Ark.  On this latest release, which Niño recorded with friend and collaborator Jesse Peterson, he steers away from the chaotic sounds of TBAA, and tones it down to more of a “white noise” scenario. And that’s not hyperbole: with all due respect to Mr. Niño, this is the kind of record you can play in the background and barely notice. But a couple highlights on the album will earn your alert and eager attention in the guise of updated 60s psychedelic experimentation. The track “I Love You,” for example, is a groovy and soulful number that you can dance to. “Turn on the Sunlight” is an acoustic ditty that will remind you of flower children on a sunny day.  The rest of it falls into the line of freeform jazz and soundscapes.  A savvy music supervisor could easily place these tracks into the soundtrack of a trippy independent film; however, if you like your noise a little more bombastic, it may not be for you.

-Rita Kassak