Jhelisa's second album for Dorado finds her delving into darker territory, both musically and lyrically -- with themes ranging from child abuse to pre-arranged marriage. Her own arrangements and music-writing enhance the personality of Language Electric, and the mood is understated, though the range of sounds -- from loose funk and ambient soul to occasional techno -- sounds more reminiscent of her work with the Shamen. Fellow Dorado act Outside (Matt Cooper) sits in on piano.

Jhelisa's debut album, Galactica Rush, wears its acid jazz credentials proudly on its sleeve - and why not? For the genre, it's certainly strong example to follow, blending beats with psychedelia and Jhelisa's accomplished vocal work. The title track, for instance, swirls around with layers of squealing horns and a sudden exclamation, "12 little kitties in a cardboard box!" Acid, indeed. The humorous personal manifesto of "There's Nothing Wrong" gives us Jhelisa at her most individualistically defiant, while "Hold My Peace" lends some political action to that defiance. With production from Cool Breeze, the album shows its lighter side on "Whirl Keeps Turning" or the cleverly tongue-in-cheek "Death of a Soul Diva." And I don't have to mention the now-classic "Friendly Pressure"; it speaks for itself. And the three lullaby-like tracks that close out the album show off Jhelisa's more maternal side as well.