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: Mental Monky Ballet's 'Breaking The Law'

Mental Monky Ballet
Breaking The Law
Applehead Records

Swedish alt-rock group, Mental Monky Ballet, bridges the vocal and instrumental gap between Blondie and Garbage--and they do it with success all around. "Into The Open" is a swishy, rock-infused medley with reverberating guitars and vibrant female vocals. "Club 27" is a lush, alt-dance tune with classic vocals and a power pop presence that contains a little edge and a setup akin to something by The Killers. "Get Around This" begins with a spacious, atmospheric and progressive intro with delicate vocals and gingerly-played guitars, until the chorus brings in other vocals and a more textured pop sound. "You're More Trouble Than You're Worth" opens with an alternative and progressive rock arrangement that harbors Garbage and Blondie tendencies, but everything comes out okay. The new seven-track EP, Breaking The Law, is a sure hit for fans of the abovementioned musicians and Swedish alt-pop music with English vocals. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Firil's 'Smile Som Sumarsole'

Firil
Smile Som Sumarsole
Etnisk Musikklubb

Firil is led by Norwegian vocalist, Margit Myhr, but is joined by fellow countryman, Olav Luksengard Mjelva on Hardanger fiddle and Swedish musicians, Anders Hall on viola and octave fiddle with Adam Johansson on guitar. There is a mix of instrumental and vocal tunes throughout. The thirteen track release contains some soul-stirring and toe-twirling melodies that are upbeat, authentic, and raw. The sweet vocals of Margit Myhr are unforgettable and resemble the likes of Emma Hardelin and Jenny Wilhelm. The mostly traditional release brings together unique folk traditions from the Hallingdal region of Norway. Anyone familiar with traditional Scandinavian folk music will love it, yet it is accessible enough to entertain listeners in other world regions. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Eja - A Swedish Quartet

Eja
Alruna
Footprint Records

Eja is a Swedish quartet consisting of percussionist, celloist, Arabian lutist, and vocalist. They play traditional psalms and hymns of Nordic origin. Eva Rune provides the Swedish vocals. Her clear vocals are reminiscent of other Nordic folk music groups, such as, Gjallarhorn, Garmarna, and Triakel. The Arabic lute, played by Robert Folsch, adds a transglobal element to the group with high applause all around. The content of the songs contains elements of Biblical faith, joy and happiness, and the emotions of daily living. Liner notes include Swedish titles and lyrics. On the whole, Alruna transcends the Nordic spirit and brings forth long-standing traditions for a new generation. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Sweden Meets Latin America on 'Nubes del Alma'

Cerro Esperanza Band
Nubes del Alma
Footprint Records

If any album can bridge the musical cultures of Sweden and Latin America, then Nubes del Alma is in serious contention. Jorge Alcaide lends his Spanish and Swedish vocals. The Cerro Esperanza Band combines Spanish and Swedish lyrics with Cuban/South American rhythms and Balkan/Klezmer brass to make an unlikely concoction shine brighter than light glinting off a brass horn. At times, the melodies would be ideal for slow dancing, lounging at a smoke-filled bar in Rio de Janeiro, or for listening in the comfort of your home - wherever that may be. At any rate, they are versatile. Their music incorporates the accordion, guitar, bouzouki, clarinet, trombone, cimbalom, thumb piano, bass, and assorted percussion. Lyrics are provided in the liner notes in Spanish, English, and Swedish. As a bonus, the insert unfolds into a striking poster of instrument silhouettes. ~ Matthew Forss