CD Review: Carmen Souza + Theo Pas'cal's 'London Acoustic Set'

Carmen Souza and Theo Pas'cal
London Acoustic Set
Galileo Records

Recorded in London, England in an intimate setting with limited applause, London Acoustic Set features the musicianship of vocalist, guitarist, and percussionist, Carmen Souza from Cape Verde, as well as Portuguese-born, Theo Pas'cal on bass, double bass, udo, and percussion. The duo electrifies the soundwaves, albeit 'acoustically,' with limited instrumentation and soulful, breezy vocals. Carmen's voice takes on a jazzy, pop-standard sound, which sounds a bit different from her previously-released albums. At any rate, the interplay between Theo and Carmen is quite warm and inviting. The spacious sounds and light, African melodies make London Acoustic Set a favorite for world jazz, Cape Verde, Portuguese, and improvisational music fans. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Fado By Way of South Africa...Azores...and Lisbon

Katia Guerreiro
Fado
Sony

Fadista, Katia Guerreiro, was born in South Africa, moved to the Azores as a child, and studied medicine in Lisbon, Portugal. The latter move would ultimately allow Katia to embrace her fado beginnings. The appropriately titled album, Fado, is an excellent introspective examination of fado song structure and delivery. Yet, most listeners associate the late-Amalia Rodrigues, or the currently popular, Mariza, with fado stardom, Katia is equally deserving of such attention and fame. Every song is heartfelt and passionately performed. This is one of the lasting impressions of fado music. The rich tradition of fado follows the content of a mournful nature, often about love, or poor living. At any rate, Katia's beautiful voice is a heavenly addition to the fado world. The lyrics are provided in Portuguese. ~ Matthew Forss