CD Review: Various Artists' 'Mozambique'

Various Artists
Mozambique
Wired For Sound

The compilation of musicians from Mozambique is a great release that showcases various musical styles that are both contemporary and infectious. The pop connotations are evident, but there is also a good degree of blues, soukous, zouk, and Afro-pop arrangements and influences. Over a dozen fresh artists contribute to this new release funded by the Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa (OSISA). You will hear Million Isaac Junior, Marcelino Banda Mpombeza, Alfredo, Harry Potter (yes, a band), Minesterio Evanjelico De Mbonje, Chaisoni Bicaus Bandeira, Atija, and many others. The music incorporates Congolese rhythms, Portuguese influences, and Mozambique melodies that are very vibrant and memorable. Seventeen different tracks represent a hearty mix of easy listening and toe-tapping responses. Nothing is a miss here. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Ivan Mazuze's 'Ndzuti'

Ivan Mazuze
Ndzuti
Etnisk Musikklubb

Mozambique's Ivan Mazuze is a saxophonist and composer with an academic expertise in ethnomusicology and jazzy performance side that shines throughout his latest release, Ndzuti, which means "shadow" in the ancient language of Xichangana in southern Mozambique. Ivan's jazzy repertoire contains a little Congolese and Cape Verde guitar work, Afro-Jazz leanings, and Norwegian heritage on the piano. Manou Gallo, from Ivory Coast, offers her singing talents, alongside Mali's Sidiki Camara on percussion and Cuba's Omar Sosa on piano. The light melodies, jazzy grooves, and African ambiance is plentiful and spirited. Fans of world jazz, Mozambique music, Afro-Jazz, Afro-Cuban music, and instrumental delights will find happiness in the sounds and vibes of Ivan Mazuze and his group ~ Matthew Forss