Review: La Chooma - Local Spirits (Batov Records)

Psychedelic dub meets Afro-Latin grooves on La Chooma’s hypnotic debut for Batov Records - blending Moroccan Gnawa, Colombian cumbia, Afrobeat, Jamaican dub, and cosmic jazz into deep, dancefloor-rooted compositions.

The six-piece ensemble has grown from a local trio into a dynamic live force, known for energetic and authentic performances. Their sound fuses Afrobeat, dub, and global influences from North and West Africa to Colombia and Cuba, creating a rich, borderless vibe

With a spiritual core and expansive sound, La Chooma recalls the exploratory spirit of Count Ossie, Idris Ackamoor, and The Comet Is Coming, connecting global traditions through rhythm, soul, and psychedelia

Highlights include the Ethio-dub noir of 'High Grow', the cosmic synth-funk of 'Lonely', and 'Cozumel', where Afro-Latin rhythms and Egyptian flute melodies meet on a cinematic ascent.

All we need is a Mad Professor dub and it's totally out-there!

Artist: La Chooma 

Title:  Local Spirits

Release date: 5th September, 2025

Label : Batov Records

Catalog Number : BTR125

Format: LP Vinyl /  Digital / Bandcamp   

Alon Carmelly - Upright bass & Kawala Flute
Ella Greenbaum - Karkab & Percussion
Shimon Greenstein - Congas
Noam Cherchie - Drums
Yoav Dolev Hashiloni - Synths and Effects
Asaf Smilan - additional Drums on Huachuma and Percussion on Praise