CD Review: Didier Francois's 'Nyckelharpa Solo'

Didier Francois
Nyckelharpa Solo
Home Records

The Belgian, Didier Francois, is a noted nyckelharpa player and teacher. The nyckelharpa is a keyed harp or fiddle with keys attached to tangents that serve as frets to change the pitch of the strings. Traditionally, the nyckelharpa is a native of Sweden, but it is found in many other Scandinavian and European countries...and other parts of the world. As its name suggests, the nyckelharpa is the only instrument on this recording. Additionally, there are not any vocals. Instead, Didier plays various compositions with nyckelharpa. There are sixteen instrumental tracks, which include some original tunes, and others composed by Jamil Masud, Johann Sebastian Bach, Erik Sath, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Susanne Paul, Charlie Mariano, Jose Toral, Eugene Ysaye, and Carl Michael Von Esser. The instrumental tracks are perfect for classical, folk, or violin fans. This is a top release for nyckelharpa fans, too. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Julaba Kunda feat. Juldeh Camara & Griselda Sanderson on 'Traders'

Julaba Kunda (feat. Juldeh Camara & Griselda Sanderson)
Traders
Waulk Records

Traders is a more African-focused recording than Griselda's previous release, Harpahonics. Nevertheless, the nyckelharpa is still a mainstay, though the riti, kologo, water calabash, thumb piano, and talking drum make an appearance and represent the music of Gambia and other parts of West Africa. In a similar manner, the music of Africa gels perfectly with the organ, piano, fiddle, viola, and other instruments from the "North". The rousing melodies and introspective vocals make Traders a lively album to kick-back and relax with. The energetic percussion and string arrangements create a super-fluid feel throughout. Not one weak track exists on this album. Anyone interested in European, Scandinavian, and African music will love Julaba Kunda's latest release. Not to be missed! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Griselda Sanderson's 'Harpaphonics'

Griselda Sanderson

Harpaphonics

Waulk Music

 

 

Though issued a few years ago, the wholly instrumental Harpaphonics should gain some newfound exposure with Griselda's creative, mesmerizing, and diverse playing abilities on the nyckelharpa (keyed fiddle). The nyckelharpa is common throughout Sweden, but Griselda hails from Scotland. Consequently, some of the nyckelharpa tunes possess a Nordic, Celtic, and Scottish flavor. Keep in mind, Griselda is not shy about fusing West African percussion and instrumentation to the mix. In fact, water calabashes, djembe, and riti fiddle (played by Gambian musician, Juldeh Camara) are added to the nyckelharpa repertoire. Additionally, the bodhran, guitar, violin, double bass, zarb, organ, accordion, and viola make an appearance to lighten the mood and spirit of all those within earshot of its pleasantries. In short, Harpaphonics spans the Balkans, African continent, Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East with its melodies, modes, and magic. A bonus video of "Irimi" is included on the enhanced CD. ~ Matthew Forss