CD Review: Sousou & Maher Cissoko's 'Africa Moo Baalu'

Sousou & Maher Cissoko
Africa Moo Baalu
Arc Music

Swedish/Senegalese-couple, Sousou and Maher Cissoko, bring us an inviting recording of pleasurable kora melodies and vocal harmonies steeped in African charm. The kora, guitar, percussion, and vocals mark an energetic and richly-diverse recording that is exciting, catchy, and very fun. The scintillating kora on "Fall" is one of the most beautiful tracks on the album. The fine interplay between Sousou's vocals and guitar with Maher's kora, shaker, and calabash arrangements are splendid. Plus, Sousou's heartfelt vocals lead the musical progression with English lyrics. Sousou and Maher do not incorporate Swedish song elements at all, so African music is at the forefront. Notably, Sousou's ability to play the kora is unique, because women traditionally do not play the kora instrument. Thankfully, Sousou picked up the instrument and joined forces with Maher to create a wonderful album. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Hannah & Maggie's 'Muscle & Bone'

Hannah & Maggie
Muscle & Bone
Self-Release

The New York-based female folk duo present us with compelling and catchy vocal melodies on Muscle & Bone. The vocal similarities with Sarah MacLachlan, Heidi Talbot, Avril Lavigne and Shawn Colvin are not too far-fetched. The pleasant melodies and vocal arrangements on "Ghost," solidify their mark with glorious instrumentation and unforgettable chords with background vocals delivered in an Enya-esque manner. "Burlington, VT" contains a nice jazzy trumpet, acoustic guitar, and upbeat percussion with scintillating ukulele or mandolin. "Keeping Calm The Lives We Know" is a steady folk tune with ambulating vocals and charming melodies. "Sara" slows it down a notch and incorporates a little cello for reflective elements. "As You Wake" is an upbeat, folk-country tune with loads of Southern Appalachian charm without the accents. "The Room Fiddler" is a perfect folk-pop tune that is simply magical. This is one of the best albums in any genre in a long time. There is plenty to chew on here. Simply amazing. ~ Matthew Forss