CD Review: Volga's 'Kumushki Pjut'

Volga
Kumushki Pjut
Asphalt Tango Records

Led by Armenian, Anzhelika Manukyan, Volga reinvents the traditional music of Russia using delicate house, dance, trance, and dub sounds that effervesce with soothing melodies and punchy rhythms. The Russian group resurrects ancient texts and performs them in modern contexts. The group comprises of Grammy Winner, Uri Balashov on zvukosuk and Tibetan cup, Alexey Ostashev on bass guitar, Sergei Klevensky on jaleika and bagpipe, and Roman Lebedev on guitar and electronic arrangements. Anzhelika is the lead vocalist. The poignant rhythms and electronic overtones are carefully selected and executed for a great result that is never too over-the-top. The mix of historical roots, modern rhythms, and various instruments make for a great album. The lilting melodies of "Kaverzi" appropriately demonstrates Anzhelika's emotive vocals and the sauntering guitar arrangements in a laid-back setting. "Postylyi Muzh" contains a pulsating rock guitar beat as an opener with recurring beats throughout. "Mala Nochka" possesses a cheery rhythm with rollicking bass, guitar, and percussion that eloquently accents the subtle electronic touches. Overall, Volga is one of the best groups to come out of Russia in recent memory. Enjoy it for yourself! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Malawi Mouse Boys' 'Dirt Is Good'

Malawi Mouse Boys
Dirt Is Good
IRL Records

Discovered by Grammy-winning record producer, Ian Brennan (of Tinariwen and Lucinda Williams-fame), the Malawi Mouse Boys perform fifteen upllifting, Christian songs written and sung in the Chichewa language. These are not your typical gospel or worship hymns, as the rudimentary guitar, drums, and assorted instrumentation suggest an earthy, primitive, and organic concoction of tunes. The vocals and instrumentation come through clearly and the melodies are strong. The vocal harmonies on "Kufanana" suggest a Ladysmith Black Mambazo influence without any instrumental accompaniment. A gritty electric guitar on "Zochita Zanu" showcase a bit of grunge elements and a great rhythm. "Ndiyamika" is a peppy little tune with a catchy vocal set and light percussion. Overall, Malawi Mouse Boys make a positive impact to the world music scene in Africa and beyond. Enjoy this one! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Al Conti's 2011 Grammy Award Nominated 'Northern Seas'

Al Conti
Northern Seas
Shadowside Music

The powerful mythology of Norse folklore graces the musical foundation of Al Conti's 2011 Grammy Award -nominated release for Best New Age Album. The eleven-track release contains compositions that are mostly instrumental and inspired by various Norse references, including Ragnarok, Valkyria, Baldur, Odin, and Thor. The rather dark connotations of Norse mythology are brightened by Conti's uncanny ability to create spritely rhythms and melodies with the aid of uillean pipes, fiddles, piano, Celtic whistles, acoustic guitars, and assorted percussion. The atmospheric backdrops fill in the melodies and provide an awe-inspiring journey for all who listen. A nice mix of Celtic, New Age, ethnic, and instrumental melodies are more upbeat than anything from Robert Rich or Steve Roach. However, the scintillating music is more in-line with Ireland's Ronan Hardiman. Nevertheless, Conti knows how to create visionary compositions that are entirely unique and refreshing. Conti breathes life into the mythological void of imagination and lore. You can find Al Conti on Facebook, Twitter, Myspace. ~ Matthew Forss