CD Review: Samuel Yirga's 'Guzo'

Samuel Yirga
Guzo
Real World

Samuel Yirga's Ethiojazz renderings are thought-provoking, instrumental, and vocally-strong. The musical traditions of Ethiopia--notably, the jazz epicenter of Addis Ababa--is the central focal point for the creative output of Samuel Yirga. The title, which means 'journey' in Amharic, is poignant and fitting for a release with so many influences. The jazzy, downtempo leanings of "Abet Abet," are contemporary and futuristic with a nice dose of improvisation and classic percussion. The piano is a featured instrument on many of the songs, especially on "Tiwista." There are a few guest appearances by the infamous Creole Choir of Cuba on "Nou Se Soleil" and "I Am The Black Gold Of The Sun." The Haitian and Caribbean influences are most pronounced on the aforementioned tracks. Though, an element of American jazz and funk is evident throughout the album, Samuel creates evocative compositions that move in many directions, but all roads lead to something amazing. The cinematic wanderings of  "Ye Bati Koyita" bring to mind the piano compositions of Thomas Newman. Some of the tracks focus more heavily on piano, which may not be as exciting as the other instruments. Nevertheless, Samuel produces a fine recording with multiple influences and styles to keep everyone very happy for a very long time. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Nancy Vieira's 'No Ama'

Nancy Vieira
No Ama
Lusafrica

The swaying melodies and rhythms of Cape Verde are showcased on this new exciting release of Afro-Creole culture. Nancy is a vocalist and shares the spotlight with the cavaquinho, Portuguese guitar, piano, bass guitar, flute, violin, and electric guitar throughout. The music of Teofilo Chantre, B. Leza, Mario Lucio, Amandio Cabral, and others. The smooth and folk melodies capture the musical culture of the islands with some Portuguese, Brazilian, and African elements. Nancy's vocals bring to mind a young Cesaria Evora. As a fourth album for Nancy, No Ama hits the web-stores and store shelves with a fresh and renewed presence. The light music is accessible for anyone interested in Cape Verde music, or the music of Brazil, Portugal, France, and Africa. Lyrics provided in the liner notes. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Music of the Indian Ocean

Davy Sicard
Kabar
Up Music

The French-infused rhythms and vocals of guitarist Davy Sicard carries on the tradition of contemporary music from Reunion--a small island east of Madagascar. A region of rarely heard music on a global scale, Davy's music is similar in rhythm to Mauritanian/French vocalist/guitarist, Daby Toure. Kabar is a laid-back, "lounge blues" of sorts, with melodic vocal calisthenics and pleasant guitar stylings. Davy not only utilizes the French language, but also a Creole variant spoken throughout much of the island. Some of the songs are more energetic than others, but all create a sense of emotional depth and musical richness. The breezy guitar tunings and sparkling addition of a plucked thumb piano on one track showcase some of the musical diversity on the island. Overall, the bluesy-pop tunes of Kabar should entice listeners all over the world. Liner notes include song lyrics and titles in Creole French. ~ Matthew Forss