19. Cornershop
Known largely for their international hit "Brimful Of Asha," which was also released as a remix by Norman Cook (aka Fatboy Slim), Cornershop have been making catchy and original music since 1993. Their sound includes elements of punk, disco, Bollywood, glam rock, and funk: always upbeat, no black keys used on the piano. Their lyrics often address issues of ethics, racism and politics. I spoke with the band's founder Tjinder Singh in London about the group's colorful evolution, working with Allen Ginsberg, our shared affinity for Hansadutta, the band's reclaiming of a racial slur as a term of empowerment, and their new LP on Ample Play, "England Is A Garden."
Recommendations:
St. Marie Under Canon" is the first single and video from "England Is a Garden." Watch it here!
"The Hot For May Sound" is a terrific compilation album that captures the breadth of Cornershop's musical kaleidoscope.