**1/2 Indigenous

CIRCLE

(Pachyderm)

Mato Nanji's guitar style echoes the power of Hendrix, the attack of Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the subtle dynamics of the Kings -- B.B., Albert, and Freddie. As you might guess from his band's moniker, Nanji and his family -- sister Wandbi on drums, brother Pte on bass, cousin Horse on percussion -- are Native Americans, but their sound comes from Memphis, Chicago, and Texas, not the reservation. On Circle, the band's second full-length CD, Wandbi and Pte lay down a solid backbeat while Horse and guest keyboard man Riley Osbourn add subtle flavor on percussion and organ. But it's Nanji's ageless bluesy growl and his fat bluesy guitar that make the greatest impression. His ax can clang like a funereal church bell, cry like the lonesome West Texas wind, or plow up the concrete like a Memphis jackhammer. The songwriting is serviceable, but it doesn't approach the quality of the band's playing, or Nanji's amazing fretwork.

-- J. Poet

(Indigenous play the Karma Club next Thursday, May 25. Call 423-NEXT.)