CD Review: Honeybird's 'Out Comes Woman'

Honeybird
Out Comes Woman
Duckhead Green Music

Honeybird incorporates a variety of world, jazz, urban, classical, and pop elements on Out Comes Woman. The fourteen tracks are uniquely-named and equally-enthralling from a musical perspective. Some of the titles include, "TMBLGBT," "Ex-Spearmint," and "Bi Dead Chickens." Some of the vocals are arranged in a scat jazz setting, while others are set in a theatrical or artsy context with whimsical instrumentation and short or fast beats. This is not a power pop album or rock album, for that matter. Instead, it is filled with poignant melodies, diverse vocals, and varied instrumentation arranged in delicate ways. The vocals are often reduced in more of a spoken word or poetic delivery--especially on "Wanted In Wanted Out." At any rate, Honeybird creates some sweet tunes for anyone looking for something different. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Newpoli's 'Nun Te Vuta'

Newpoli
Nun Te Vuta
Rotary Records

Italy's Newpoli group brings us a swirling mix of tunes that are definitely vibrant and showy with lush melodies and rhythms, along with fanciful vocal displays. The instrumental repertoire is rich with mandola, guitars, accordion, bass, strings, oud, drums, and wind instruments. The minstrel-like melodies and playfulness to the songs represents a historical presence in a contemporary world. The vocals lead the tunes at times, but the instruments are the stand-out here. Anyone interested in folk music, world music, Italian roots, ensemble, neo-classical music, and Renaissance-type music will find happiness throughout the tunes of Nun Te Vuta. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Figli Di Madre Ignota's 'Bellydancer'

Figli Di Madre Ignota
Bellydancer
Godzilla Market

Hailing from Italy, these funk, punk, and psychedelic jazz magnates know how to create edgy and diverse musical stylings on Bellydancer. The vocals are in English and Italian. There are eleven tracks in all and each one has its own story and message. The punchy, rock-infused anthem, "Bellydancer," is a great jazzy track with youthful exuberance and pizzazz. The swirling beats of "Mediterranean Voodoo," showcases the group's creative efforts that incorporate jazz, punk, funk, and experimental elements without fault. The Balkan-tinged, psych-edged, and punk-ridden "Sex Music Pasta," is an upbeat, horn-laden tune with a punchy rhythm and loud vocals. Some of the songs have a classical edge, but the entire album is infused with Balkan and Mediterranean rhythms, psych, funk, jazz, and rock elements that make for an interesting album that purists should stay away from. Nevertheless, purists may cross-over and become a believer in good music - no matter where it comes from and how it is played. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Atse Tewodros Project's Self-Titled Release

Atse Tewodros Project
Atse Tewodros Project
Self-Release

Envisioned by singer, writer, and performer, Gabriella Ghermandi, the Atse Tewodros Project is a collaboration between Ethiopian and Italian musicians. The music is steeped in Ethiopian traditional modes and scales with a bit of European jazz. The project is named after a prominent Ethiopian emperor: Atse Tewodros. The jaunty music is jazzy, purely Ethiopian, and rich with great rhythms and melodies. Gabriella lends her vocal talent throughout, while others play the washint, masinqo, kirar, kebero, drums, bass, piano, and assorted percussion. Song lyrics are provided by Gabriella Ghermandi, Aklilu Zewdie, Berhanu Gizaw, and Inish Hailu. There are plenty of likable tracks here, including "Atse Tewodros," "Che Belew," "Be Kibir," and "Tew Belew." A few tracks contain some spoken words. However, the majority of the songs contain sung vocals. Anyone with an interest in innovative and traditional, Ethiopian music, will surely find the Atse Tewodros Project high on the list of must-haves. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Gino Foti's 'Global Resonances'

Gino Foti
Global Resonances
Net Dot Music

The new work of Gino Foti's musical creations shines through in new age, experimental, and bass-infused melodies and rhythms on Global Resonances. Gino's strictly instrumental songs are poignant, contemplative, ambulatory, and engaging. The diverse bass guitar stylings are partly due to MIDI, but there are also loops and samples that fill in the melodies. There are fourteen different tracks in all that span over one hour. Some of the bass sounds are rather light and represent an East Asian flair. However, Gino's music is steeped in avant-garde and experimental styles with a world fusion element rarely seen in contemporary releases in new age genres. There are not only East Asian sounds and influences here, but African elements exist to some extent. The jazzy leanings are truly impressive on "Umoja." Global Resonances is aptly-titled, because it represents a worldly connection that brings together various cultural components that seem to mesh very well. Whatever inspires Gino, we can be sure he will make it his own and evoke a sense of magnificence and entrancement in all who listen. Play it today! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Nazaket Teymurova's 'Mugham'

Nazaket Teymurova
Mugham
Felmay

The traditional music of Azerbaijan has been a popular Caucasus mainstay throughout Central Asia and around the world. Mugham is form of classical poetry and improvisational musical arrangements following an Iranian-Arabic-Turkish melody continuum, or maqam. In this case, Nazaket brings us four long compositions in the mugham style: (1) Dastgah Kharidj Segah, (2) Mugham Bayati Shira, (3) Tasnif and Chahargah, and (4) Ashiqam and Mugham Hijaz. The music is traditional overall and features the great vocal style of Nazaket Teymurova, but she is accompanied by various musicians on tar, kamancha, balaban, naqara, drone naqara, qosha naqara, kanun, and oud. The first song is the longest at nearly thirty-eight-minutes. Fans of Arabic maqam, mugham, Central Asian music, and Azeri music will definitely love Nazaket's album. Liner notes are in English, French, and Azeri. ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Newpoli's 'Tempo Antico'

Newpoli
Tempo Antico
Beartones

Founded by members that studied jazz at the Berklee College of Music, Newpoli create a folksy form of traditional Italian music with classical instruments, jazzy tunes, and spritely vocal calisthenics. The brisky vocal medleys are akin to the same vocal acrobatics of Finland's Varttina. Many of the songs have historical roots dating back to the fifteen-hundreds, while some originate from the early nineteen-hundreds. The instrumentation is full of classical flavors and medieval minstrelsy. There are thirteen tunes that represent vocal music traditions of operatic and folksy proportions. The giddy instrumentation, bright vocal deliveries, and diverse percussion represent a solid repertoire that is unforgettable. The female vocals are emotive and lively. Tempo Antico is a Mediterranean pleasure with medieval origins and academic backing. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Gaudi's 'In Between Times'

Gaudi
In Between Times
Six Degrees Records

Born in Italy, based in the UK, and currently traveling the world, Gaudi encapsulates the world fusion epitomy with electronic beats, traditional instrumentation, and groovy dance tunes. There are a plethora of guest musicians that reinforce the highly-textural nature of the compositions. For instance, Michael Rose adds some vocals on "Put Your Guns Down," while Jahmai, Danny Ladwa, Lee Scratch Perry, and Deadly Hunta add their talents on "Life," "Why U Wanna Run" and "Unlimited Possibilities," "I Start To Pray," and "Babylon Is Fallin," respectively. The music is a mix of fusion, dance, reggae, rock, electronic, hip-hop, and rap. This is not really a purist type of album, but a fusionist will be right at home. Anyone into world fusion with a contemporary pulse will find Gaudi very appealing. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Beatriz Aguiar's 'Nomade'

Beatriz Aguiar
Nomade
Felmay

The smooth and sultry voice of Uruguay's Beatriz Aguiar is romantic and unforgettable. In the same manner, the instrumental hooks are equally enthralling. Her voice is accompanied by strings, piano, guitar, accordion, percussion, and bass. The classical, string sounds are breezy and contemplative. The militaristic "Manzanilla," contains a nice drum-beat and moving vocals. This is familiar music to fans of South American session or jam music. Think Ruben Blades meets Bach. However, this is fairly unique overall, as Beatriz' voice is fluid, dynamic, and supple. The music is classical, jazzy, and pop standard all the way. Fans of Beatriz will rejoice with this one. Others unfamiliar with Beatriz' work will quickly find out how much they've been missing. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Chemako's Self-Titled Release from Italy

Chemako
Chemako
Ultra Sound Records

The gritty folk-rock stylings of Italy's Chemako is surprisingly similar in tone and arrangement to America's Southern folk, rock, and blues music. Moreover, the vocals are in English and the instrumentation is largely based in the Deep South. The slide guitar, piano, banjo, dobro, acoustic guitar, mandoguitar, drums, harp, ukulele, sax, and flugelhorn round out the instrumental repertoire. A few of the songs contain female lead singers, including "Maintenance Free," "Let It Burn Wild," "Save The Moon," "The Ocean Song," "Tears For Breakfast," and "George Harrison's cover, "All Things Must Pass." The Sarah MacLachlan-esque "The Ocean Song" contains a little Shawn Colvin-esque vocals and guitar playing with bass, drums, and flugelhorn. The music is bluesy, Western, and Southern rock with a folk twist. The music is unlike anything heard, because it does not sound 'Italian.' At any rate, listeners enthralled by folk rock and blues will love Chemako. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Municipale Balcanica's 'Offbeat'

Municipale Balcanica
Offbeat
Red Tomato Records

The Italian band, Municipale Balcanica, rattles the airwaves with a bit of Balkan music that is hip, contemporary, and rock-inspired, which is similar in tone to klezmer, jazz, and gypsy music. The instrumental music is a party in itself, but some vocals are present in English. The music is lavishly illustrated with numerous instruments, including clarinet, sax, congas, cajon, santoor, cymbals, trumpet, bass, guitar, violin, accordion, among others. The upbeat melodies and brassy rhythms make Offbeat a fascinating recording that is anything but 'offbeat.' In fact, Municipale Balcanica hits the right beats and chords to make this new recording an unforgettable experience. While other musicians tend to rely solely on brassy horns, Municipale Balcanica mixes it up enough to give equal time to most of the instruments involved. There is something magical about this album. It is one of the best progressive Mediterranean albums in a long time. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Las Hermanas Caronni's 'Baguala de la siesta'

Las Hermanas Caronni
Baguala de la siesta
Snail Records

The music of Las Hermanas Caronni is actually produced by twins--Laura and Gianna Caronni. The twins are from Argentina. The duo performs tango, folk, and classical music with only a cello and a clarinet. Keep in mind, the duo also sings. The emotive vocals possesss very theatrical--almost operatic--undertones. The worldly nature of the songs is reflected from ancestral origins from Switzerland, Russia, Italy, and Spain. The music is devoid of any additional instrumentation. The entire project is relatively low-fi, but the sounds are beautiful, emotional, and enthralling. Though, fans seeking a more traditional Argentinian release should look elsewhere. Fans with a leaning toward the classical approaches will enjoy Baguala de la siesta the best. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Amana Melome's 'Phoenix Rising'

Amana Melome'
Phoenix Rising
Savana Records

Born in Germany and prior resident at various places around the world, Amana Melome' produces an Afro-pop album with reggae, neo-soul, funk, and jazz influences that pervade the music. With a voice not unlike Nelly Furtado, Amana spreads her wings and flies high with catchy tunes that are uplifting and charismatic. The music is not overdone or mindless. In fact, Amana's songs are carefree, candid, and introspective. The jazzy, sauntering, and laid-back song, "Lazy Sunday," brings to mind a throwback to neo-soul of the 1970s or 80s. At any rate, the music is made for today. The blended concoctions of jazz, blues, soul, rock, and pop form a remarkable album of creative ingenuity that hits the human soul with waves of unending beauty.  "Ao Meio Dia" is a hint at Brazilian samba or jazz that latches onto one's soul and never lets go. Twelve tracks round out the album for a fifty-minute journey. Hopefully, Phoenix Rising will make a nice addition to your global music library. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Carmen Consoli is "Elettra-ic"

Carmen Consoli

Elettra

Wrasse Records

Italian folk/rock singer, Carmen Consoli, is a bright talent with a strong voice. Her voice is iconic to Italy as Patricia Kaas is to France. Their are classical strings, jazzy tunes, Balkan/Gypsy rhythms, lounge tracks, and South American-type vibes on her 7th studio album. Elettra is a celebration of women and all her forms - good and bad. The mix of Mediterranean instruments and rhythms with folk and rock elements and Italian vocals make Elettra shine with liveliness. One can hear some similarities to downtempo groups, such as Zero 7 and Air. Yet, Elettra is not a trip-hop album, but it does contain some of those sounds typically observed in downtempo. This is an album of Italian sensibility and contemporary folk/rock arrangements. Each track is quite different and equally engaging. Liner notes in Italian. Discover the music of Carmen Consoli today! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: The Spy From Cairo

The Spy From Cairo

Secretly Famous

Wonderwheel Recordings

Originally from Italy, The Spy From Cairo is trans-global groovemaster extraordinaire Moreno Visini. There are little musical references to Italy on this album, but the dub-grooves and traditional instrumentation reflect a purely North African/Middle Eastern origin. The Spy From Cairo plays several instruments including bass, oud, saz, darbouka, keyboards, and ciftelli (two-stringed lute). A stand-out guest vocalist adds her Tunisian presence on "Ana Arabi", "Jennaty", and "Blood and Honey". Additionally, the mizmar and nay flute adds a good amount of musical fluidity on "Nayphony". Secretly Famous is a dub-fest for a new generation. There is a nice mix of original songs and remixes/tributes to great musicians from Egypt including Farid Al Atrache and Mohamed Abdel Wahab. The end result is an Afro-dub sound with an abundance of creativity, musicianship, and cultural awareness. Secretly Famous won't be secret much longer; once the addictive sounds make their way online, on the radio, and in the clubs. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Francesco Banchini - Italy

Francesco Banchini
Baqshish
Felmay

Italy's Francesco Banchini plays the clarinet, but is joined by several percussion and string instruments on his latest release, Baqshish. In fact, you will hear the guitar, darabouka, accordion, frame drum, riq, nay, flute, bass drum, udu, cumbus, piano, and others. Of course, Italian elements pervade the songs, yet a distinct Balkan presence is also quite strong. The lilting melodies, effervescent instrumentation, and emotionality of the music have something for everyone. The songs incorporate Mediterranean elements, Balkan tunes, Central Asian arrangements, and Trans-European modalities. Moreover, the title, "Baqshish", is a word that is not precisely defined in the liner notes, yet it is mentioned as something that seems to connote 'spirit' or 'gratuity'. Likewise, we are thankful for discovering Francesco Banchini. If you enjoyed the Sicilian group, Milagro Acustico, then you should not pass this one up. Liner notes in Italian and English. ~ Matthew Forss