CD Review: Irene Jacob and Francis Jacob's 'Je Sais Nager'

Irene Jacob and Francis Jacob
Je Sais Nager
Sunnyside Records

The brother-sister duo, Irene and Francis Jacob, creates beautiful melodies with light world percussion and French charm. A variety of instruments create a folk-pop sound, including the keyboards, harmonica, flute, drums, double bass, guitar, talking drum, and steel drum. The wistful, swirling melodies evoke a presence of sweet, jazzy, and enjoyable songs with Irene on vocals and Francis on vocals and guitar. The airy voice of Irene is in a similar vein to Francois Hardy or Carla Bruni, but the instrumentation arrangements are more experimental from a world music point-of-view. The French music is surrounded by some Brazilian and Senegalese beats for a truly world-class production. Still, Irene and Francis should be proud of Je Sais Nager, which is translated: I Know How To Swim. I guess Irene and Francis know how to make music, too. ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Francois & The Atlas Mountains' 'E Volo Love'

Francois & The Atlas Mountains
E Volo Love (Love and Flight)
Domino

The U.K.-based musician, Francois, is originally from France with musical tendencies spanning the Mediterranean, North Africa, and Europe. The giddiness of "Muddy Heart" combines the melodies of Coldplay, Oasis, and The Devlins into a swirling pop sound with a folk-rock base. The laid-back "Edge Of Town" contains a nostalgic presence with jangly sounds and pensive vocals. The upbeat "City Kiss" is a refreshing tune with a catchy chorus and guitar. The accordion raises its head on the opening of "Azrou Tune." The slow ballad features Francois's tender vocals. The grungy "Buried Treasures" echoes back to the Texas band--Toadies. The quieter "Cherchant Des Ponts" is a classic French song with female vocals, strings, and light percussion in the vein of Francois Hardy, Patricia Kaas, or Carla Bruni. Overall, Francois & The Atlas Mountains creates beautiful music with French, African, and other elements that are great to listen to for any occasion. It is easily one of the best albums to ring in the new year. ~ Matthew Forss