Various
African Odyssey (Putamayo)

This World Music compilation is a wonderful trans-continental journey that unearths some of Africa's finest natural resources -- the musicians and their art. The warmth and soulful appeal of these 10 outstanding tracks is akin to a long awaited homecoming, wrapped up with all the accompanying emotions. The flow is similar to a gentle flowing ocean wave with sweet, heart-warming acoustic melodies that reach out to you with open arms.This African Odyssey will be a welcome addition to any music collection and thus, should be no surprise as to why it comes well recommended.
- Lynden Vassell

BAABA MAAL
Missing You (Mi Yeewnii) (Ryko)

Baaba Maal's latest CD is a return to his accoustic roots in Senegal. It is also a return to the early success Maal had working with long-time friend and early collaborator Mansour Seck. Both were praised for the 1989 African accoustic classic Djam Leeli. Why now? For one thing Maal has always found time to explore his accoustic side even while showcasing his incredible fusion of Africa meets West grooves on stage.Moreover, this socially conscious artist has always understood the value of African music as an incredible resource with the power to enlighten and transform.Having toured the world over,I suspect that capturing the music of his youth is even more important to him. All 11 tracks are sung in Fulani. They deal with a wide range of issues:love, unity, warfare, poverty and the changing role of women.Favourite tracks include "Miyaabele", "Jamma Jenngii", and "Allah Addu Jam." Those missing Maal's amplified uptempo vibe will have to wait for his next live show.
- K.W.

VARIOUS
Club Africa 2 (Strut/Distribution Fusion III)

This 15 track CD compiled by Russ Dewbury is certainly timed for the club scene whose djs are in constant search globally for rare grooves for the dancefloor. It features hard African funk, Afro-Jazz and original Afro-Beat from such names as Manu Dibango ("New Bell");("Jo Jolo"); Roy Ayers ("Black Family") Bukky Leo & Black Egypt ("Precious Mother"); Hugh Masekela & The Union of South Africa ("Dynambo") and Letta Mbulu ("Mahlalela"). A collectors item. Enjoy.
- K.W.

MORENO VELOSO +2
Music Typewriter (Hannibal/Palm Pictures)

Moreno Veloso is the latest in an increasingly long line of second generation children of famous artists/musicians to continue their parents legacies. The 27 year old son of legendary Brazilian singer/songwriter Caeano Veloso has stepped up to the forefront with a nice collection of 14 songs. Part Samba, Bossa Nova and electronica it connects the listener to the rich tradition of Brazilian music of which his dad is an integral part while connecting with very largely laid back, cool, contemporary style. For those who want something that isn't just another dancefloor groove, a couple of tracks notwithstanding, this is a fine collection. Caetano, his dad and Daniel Jobim, son of the famous Antonio Carlos Jobim make special appearances.
- K.W.

KASSAV
Nou La (Columbia Record)

Made in Canada? Yes, we have it in our own backyard. This blend of Soca /Highlife world music is kicking. There is a French Caribbean component here which invites you to grease your waist-line and let loose. This quintet is an excellent surprise and one which makes you wonder where they have been. They make it evident that they can jam with the best on any stage be it at Carnival or a dance party. The songs at times are similar to some of the stellar Township Jive music which have come out of South Africa. This dance music seems to get better after each track and by the time you get to "An Ti ZwŽl" you are compelled to replay that track an innumerable amount of time. SWEET!!
- L.V.

AFRICANDO ALL STARS
Betece (Syllart Productions)

This is an ALL STAR line that world music lovers would salivate to be in the presence of during a performance. The diverse lineup which includes Salif Keita, Koffi Olomide, Medoune Diallo, Ronnie Baro, Gnonnas Pedro, Haiti's Shoubou and Puerto Rico's Hector Casanova seems entirely natural. The resulting seductiveness of the music provides an irresistible invitation to dance. Add a few Cuban standouts to this combination of African and Caribbean stars and the rumba and salsa rhythms will ignite any atmosphere, party or otherwise. The thirteen tracks featured here are simply outstanding - no weak link in this chain. This is one of those CDs which should played at high volumes so that the infectious joy of it can be shared. Highly Recommended.
- Lynden Vassell

MARIA MARQUEZ
Eleven Love Songs/ Once Cuentos De Amor (Palm Pictures)

Venezuelan born Maria Marquez paints a beautiful and captivating picture, in this her second solo album. She reinterprets some of the most tender love songs by which she was nurtured throughout her childhood years. With a style which is sometimes reminiscent of Nina Simone, Marquez delivers these alluring love songs and boleros in a jazzy/bluesy format that one would envision coming from a lounge in a totally relaxed and breathtaking atmosphere. It is the equivalent of being immersed in a foreign film without the subtitles. All the songs are sung in Spanish. Rest assured, translation is not of absolute necessity as the language of love is universal and Maria's emotional delivery is all you really need. The songs are elegantly arranged and in some instances utilizes steel drums in a context rarely heard, as in the track "Escribeme." Other personal favourites includes "Bolero De Rocco," and "Amor Inmortal."
- Lynden Vassell

MOSA NESHAMA
Back In Town (Full Circle Productions)

Local talent is always a treat, but good local talent is extra special.Vocal talent, Neshama, is in the latter category and displays those said talents in a Jazz/World category. Neshama has a warm voice that is versatile enough to sound bouncy on a jazz track (Peel Me A Grape) and emotive on a Worldbeat song (Umam’ Uyajabula). In true Canadian style, Neshama also sings two songs in French (Ne Me Quitte Pas, Parce Que), displaying another facet to her talents. Neshama contributes only half of the songwriting on this, somewhat short, 10-track collection but all the tracks are full of expressive flare. Favourite cut is"One more Day."
- Garnet Gibson

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