Afro Soul

About the Artist
still under construction.

Product Description
Afro Soul music and beats, written, composed, played and sang by exceptional vocalist MFA Kera (Madagascar) and remarkable Jazz-Funk-Guitarist and singer Mike Russell (Washington DC)in collaboration with talented arrangers and musicians such as Reinhard Katemann (Germany) and master drummer Souleymane Touré (Ivory Coast). A powerful and unique blend of African rooted melodies and beats, composed in very contemporary style, lyrics and sounds. A MUST!!!

Afro Soul,Black Heritage,Rockwerk Records,African,Afro Soul and beats, a unique and powerful blend of African rooted music, texts and sounds with Soul and Rhythm & Blues by exceptional vocalist MFA Kera (Madagascar) and great US Jazz-Funk-Guitarist and singer Mike Russell. A contemporary MUST...,Afro-Pop,Int'l & World Music,Pop

Average customer rating: Wonderful new find Great Singer Have Passport, WILL travel PLAY THAT FUNKY MUSIC, BLACK GIRL! Black Magic

Black Ivory Soul Angelique Kidjo Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Benin | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Fusion & World Fusion | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Oyaya! Djin Djin Keep on Moving-Best of Angelique Kidjo Aye Logozo ASIN: B00006348E Release Date: 2002-03-19

Tracks:

1. Bahia
2. Iwoya (w/ Dave Matthews)
3. Olofoofo
4. Tumba
5. Black Ivory Soul
6. Refavela
7. Iemanja
8. Afirika
9. Okanbale
10. Ominira
11. Mondjuba
12. Ces Petits Riens

Amazon.com

Angélique Kidjo's previous albums have been decidedly patchy affairs, with tracks ranging from the sublime to the abysmal. With Black Ivory Soul, however, Kidjo strikes a lovely and generally consistent note. Exploring the connections between her native Benin and Brazil's Bahia region, she makes beautiful music flavored by two continents on songs such as "Tumba," with its crisp but subtle percussion driving a lilting melody, or "Afrika," where the cascading notes of the kora help bridge the Atlantic. Co-writing with talents like Carlinhos Brown and Vinícius Cantuária has helped; they've toned down the R&B influence than ran through Oremi and replaced it with something more individual. Kidjo sounds strongest when she's very rootsy, as on her cover of Gilberto Gil's "Refavela," which stands in stark contrast to the bland "Iwoya," a duet with Dave Matthews that sounds like nothing more than a calculated shot at radio airplay. Even the odd track out, a version of "Ces Petits Riens" by Serge Gainsbourg, works because of its spare delight. In following her muse and her history, Kidjo has produced her best work to date. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful new find.......2007-05-12

I heard her music over a crowd at a museum opening event and found the DJ to get the name of the musician. I just bought this CD as a first sample and I love it! I'm coming back for more Kidjo. If you love Latin and world music and want something for a great party atmosphere that is not over bearing, this is delightful!

Great Singer.......2006-10-11

This is a great and beautiful singer, her style is cool and uptempo, easy to listen to all day. I have all her CD's, I give this CD and "Logozo" a 4 score only because my favorite is "Oyaya!"

Have Passport, WILL travel.......2006-10-01

From Bahia to Refavela to Ces Petits Riens...the range of Angelique is astounding. The obvious next step is...to see her live in concert!

PLAY THAT FUNKY MUSIC, BLACK GIRL!.......2006-09-04

BLACK IVORY SOUL by Angelique Kidjo was a 2004 birthday gift to me from one of my few true friends, Melanie. [Thanks, MelNel!] She was turned onto it by the receptionist at her dentist's office. Melanie immediately determined to get me a copy too, knowing that I'm the hippest, most soulful White dude this side of RESTAURANT 28 - an excellent soul food joint in Glendale, AZ. [restaurant28bbq.com] And did I like the music immediately? Did Louis Armstrong like red beans and rice? Does a bear like honey? Does Albert Pujols like a hanging curve ball? Does Terrill Owens like Donovan McNabb? (Oh, I guess I went too far.)

What I don't like is this bovine excrement that passes for music amongst our brain-dead youth today. (I call all of their bands `THE NAKED EMPERORS.') If it's not Bimbo Pop pap, it's Rap crap, or what's called "Alternative" (meaning: alternative to "music.") I don't buy music anymore; having an I.Q. over 50, I don't watch MTV; I don't go to dance clubs; and the only contemporary music [sic] I'm exposed to is through commercials and the half-wit sitting next to me at the red light. So although my familiarity with it has been limited, I'd say that Angelique Kidjo's BLACK IVORY SOUL is the best music yet to emerge from the 21st Century.

From the liner notes: "Kidjo has crossed musical boundaries by blending the tribal and pop rhythms of her native West African heritage with a variety of styles, including Funk, Salsa, and Jazz. On BLACK IVORY SOUL, Kidjo explores the musical and cultural kinship between Africa and Brazil, specifically her homeland and the province of Bahia."

Now, if that sounds like a real potpourri of influences, I can assure you that it does not come off as being some patchwork quilt of disparate styles. BLACK IVORY SOUL is a very unified and unique musical statement. The whole piece is tied together by intriguing , exotic rhythms and (though few of the lyrics are sung in English) the album is loaded with catchy melodies and hooks galore. It's as memorable as any Pop album ever created by an English-singing music stylist.

The musicianship - especially the drumming and percussion - is first-rate throughout, and Kidjo displays remarkable vocal control and an expressive instrument that conveys many emotional shadings regardless of language. Man, this is stellar stuff! You could dance to it, sing to it, contemplate to it. The only thing you won't be able to do is sleep to it; it's entirely too energetic for that. There's not a single track that I don't really like on BLACK IVORY SOUL, but if I had to pick a favorite, I'd probably side with OMINIRA. Thanks to the English translations provided in the accompanying booklet, I know that Angelique Kidjo is singing: "Everybody wants freedom / Everybody wants to find one's soulmate / Take my hand / I can promise you / Life will bring us freedom." From Kidjo's lips to God's Ears!

The only negative comment I have to make is directed at Dave Matthews who duets with Kidjo on IWOYA. While I like the song and also Dave's voice, it kind of irks me to hear him singing, "You don't have to be old to be wise / Don't you hear the baby crying?" I just happen to know that Dave Matthews associates with Planned Parenthood, and a few years ago his band did a benefit concert on behalf of that organization which is the nation's largest promoter of abortion. I've got a question for you Dave: How `bout you? Don't you hear the "unborn" baby crying?

Other than this "insensitive" singer/songwriter's participation, I really dig Angelique Kidjo's BLACK IVORY SOUL. It makes my own Irish / German / Scottish / American Indian soul sing. (I may be a mutt but I ain't no dog!) If you're the soulful sort and can appreciate great music regardless of its origin or the language of its lyrics, then you're gonna love BLACK IVORY SOUL, and I wouldn't Kidjo `bout that. (Ha! Sorry.)

Black Magic.......2006-07-03

This could be Kidjo's best ever, although she's still young, and no doubt, has more tricks up her sleeve, as the more recent, Caribbean-influenced OYAYA! would indicate. This collection of songs is largely inspired by Brazilian music, but as usual, Ms. Kidjo likes to mix things up, so her Aftican rhythms combine with French, South American and other shadings, and most of the melodies here are not only beautiful, but memorable; "Iemanja" and the kora-backed "Okan Bale" are particularly lovely. Even the fairly commercial duet with Dave Matthews is fine, and the one track I've heard on the radio, "Tumba" is joyfully infectious. Angelique Kidjo is an international treasure who has grown as a singer. She has become subtler, while retaining the power and soulfulness that first caught my attention in the early '90's. If you have the opportunity, catch Kidjo live, as she is an energetic, animated stage performer who can move even the most reserved audience to dance in the isles!

Average customer rating: lifesavers song Hello to my baby African Treat excellent music One of those I take with me wherever I go

Shaka Zulu Ladysmith Black Mambazo Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Africa | International | Styles | Music South Africa | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: Journey of Dreams The Best of Ladysmith Black Mambazo Long Walk to Freedom Raise Your Spirit Higher: Wenyukela The Best of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Vol. 2 ASIN: B000002LBQ Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Unomathemba
2. Hello My Baby
3. Golgotha
4. King Of Kings
5. Lomhlaba Kawunoni (The Earth Never Gets Fat)
6. How Long?
7. Ikhaya Lamaqhawe (Home Of The Heroes)
8. Yibo Labo (These Are The Guys)
9. Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain
10. Wawusho Kubani? (Who Were You Talking To?)

Amazon.com essential recording

The phrase "Time to meditate," as crooned by Ladysmith Black Mambazo in the song "Hello My Baby," might well be the most exquisitely sung line in all recorded music. Tastefully produced by Paul Simon following the success of Graceland, 1987's Shaka Zulu finds Ladysmith harmonizing as sweetly in English as they do in their native Zulu tongue (conveniently translated here). In addition to Christian and courting songs, Shaka's most interesting tunes provide glimpses into tribal culture. As Ladysmith observe in "Yibo Labo (These Are the Guys)": "There usually are problems with secret lovers / The elders never approve." --Richard Gehr

Customer Reviews:

lifesavers song.......2006-08-13

what is the name of the lifesavers song and where can you get it

Hello to my baby.......2006-05-31

Oh, such sweet, sweet memories!! My husband played this CD in our delivery room when our son was born seven years ago. "Time to meditate. I send a messenger to tell you that I want to meet you! Come along, come along to kiss me!"

EVERYONE loves this music! Children, women, men... Am I leaving anyone out? It's sweet, thoughtful, masculine, sometimes playful, sometimes deadly serious, but always hauntingly soulful and lovely music.

African Treat.......2004-06-12

Thought I would give Ladysmith a try based on the good reviews it received here and was not dissapointed. The tracks are very rythmic and uplifting. The recording is very good.

excellent music.......2003-08-25

you can't go wrong with this cd. it's excellent uplifting and thoroughly enjoyable music.

One of those I take with me wherever I go.......2003-06-15

I have put it in my cd case when I am working on the road, I've taken it into my massage therapy office to listen to while working on clients, I play it when cleaning around the house... this is one of my most favored, versitile cd's in my collection. I find it relaxing when I need to unwind, and uplifting when I am feeling sluggish. It certainly will not to appeal to all tastes. Not everyone enjoys acapella harmonies or listening to music that is not in ones own language, so I cannot make a blanket "thumbs up" for each taste. If you enjoyed the beginning of the song, "Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes" on Paul Simon's *Graceland* cd, you have a pretty good taste of what this cd offers (sans Paul Simon)... and even more so.

Average customer rating: rhythm music red hot and best! New Takes on Brazilian Pop Listening Pleasure-RED HOT+RIO Great for Jobim Fans

Red Hot + Rio: Pure Listening Pleasure PM Dawn with Flora Purim & Airto , and Crystal Waters Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Ambient Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Electronic Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Experimental Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Trip-Hop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Brazil | South & Central America | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Dub | Reggae | International | Styles | Music Samba | Latin Music | International | Styles | Music Afro Brazilian | Latin Music | International | Styles | Music Brazil | South & Central America | Compilations | International | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Brazilian Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Soul-Jazz & Boogaloo | Jazz | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music 1990s | By Decade | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music 1990-1999 | Decades | Compilations | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Nova Bossa: Red Hot on Verve Red Hot + Rhapsody: The Gershwin Groove Red Hot + Blue: A Tribute to Cole Porter Red Hot + Riot: The Music and Spirit of Fela Kuti Bossa Nova Brasil ASIN: B000004750 Release Date: 1996-10-15

Tracks:

1. Use Your Head - Money Mark
2. Corcovado - Everything But The Girl
3. Desafinado - Astrud Gilberto & George Michael
4. Non-Fiction Burning - PM Dawn
5. The Boy From Ipanema - Crystal Waters
6. Interlude - Red Hot + Rio
7. Seguranca - Maxwell
8. E Preciso Perdoar - Cesaria Evora,Caetano Veloso,Ryuichi S.
9. Interlude - Red Hot + Rio
10. Water To Drink - Incognito
11. Dancing... - Milton Nascimento
12. How Insensitive - Antonio Carlos Jobim and Sting
13. Waters Of March - David Bryne and Marisa Monte
14. Interlude - Red Hot + Rio
15. One Note Samba/Surfboard - Stereolab and Herbie Mann
16. Interlude - Red Hot + Rio
17. Black Orpheus Dub - Mad Professor
18. Maracatu Atomico - Chico Science X DJ Soul Slinger
19. Sambadrome - Funk 'N Lata
20. Refazenda - Gilberto Gil
21. Preciso Dizer Que Te Amo - Cazuza and Bebel Gilberto

Amazon.com

This immaculately conceived and packaged fundraiser for the AIDS awareness foundation is a sharp tribute to Brazilian pop. David Byrne, Milton Nascimento, PM Dawn, Stereolab, Gilberto Gil, and Crystal Waters (vamping through "The Boy from Ipanema") are among those weighing in with sophisticated tunes that will cross from cocktail hipsters to the leading edge of the mass audience. --Jeff Bateman

Customer Reviews:

rhythm music.......2007-06-08

I bought this for a friend after I bought it for myself. Great variety of songs. Wonderful for parties. Would recommend.

red hot and best!.......2007-05-14

of the many red hots i've listened to, this one is the best!

the music, those great catchy samba and bossa nova tunes that became wildly popular during the 1960s, are suited to each of the artists making a guest appearance on the cd.

among the highlights are the trip-hop infused 'corcovado' by everything but the girl, the dance-club happy 'boy from ipanema' by crystal waters--which also contains one of her best vocal performances--, sting's loving, pensive 'how insensitive', maxwell's calming 'security' and caetano veloso's highly erotic 'e preciso perdoar'.

the collection, generally speaking, is a great party cd and each song is treated with a great deal of ingenuity and integrity.

New Takes on Brazilian Pop.......2005-06-30

Now, mind you, I can't tell the samba from the bossa nova from...some other type of music that might be played in Brazil. But I still have an interest in hearing the quasi-tropical cocktail lounge-style pop tunes of this mighty South American giant. They speak Portugese there, you know. And are known to launch at a moment's notice into the lamabada, which is a forbidden dance.

Most of the songs contained herein were written way back in the day by Antonio Carlos Jobim and at least a few should be vaguely familiar: "The Girl From Ipanema", of course, but also "One Note Samba", "Waters Of March", and "Water To Drink". But these aren't the original versions--they're updates in a variety of styles. Some work pretty well, some will make you want to hurl (mainly Sting's take on "How Insensitive", which is droning and pointless).

Notable are: a punched-up synth-heavy "Ipanema" by one-hit-wonder Crystal Waters, jazz group Incognito on "Water To Drink", world-music-loving David Byrne and sultry Marisa Monte on "Waters Of March", the well-known Caetano Veloso and Ryuichi Sakamoto with the lesser-known Cesaria Evora on "E Preciso Perdoar", Stereolab's quirky and strange "One Note Samba", and Bebel Gilberto on "Preciso Dizer Que Te Amo".

The Red Hot series, which started with the Cole Porter tribute "Red Hot + Blue", has always done excellent work and this compilation is no exception. If you'd like to sample Brazilian pop music of a certain era but you're terrified of breaking out your dad's dusty old Jobim LPs, this is a great way to see what's what.

Also the liner notes are extensive and informative, so you really get your money's worth. I'm still not clear on the divide between samba and bossa nova, but I reckon that's my fault.

Listening Pleasure-RED HOT+RIO.......2004-03-03

I enjoyed 1.Used Your Head by Money Mark, 2.Corcovado done by Everything but the Girl, the funkie beats were great, 3.Desafinado done by Astrud Gilberto & George Michael was soothing and relaxing, 4.Non-Fiction Burning was enjoyable 5.Crystal Waters' version of The Boy from Ipenema, LOVED IT!! the music makes your body want to move, it will be favorite, 7.Seguranca (Security) done by MAXWELL with that sultry soft voice of his & the music, this is a favorite, 8.E Preciso Perdoar done by Cesaria Evora & Caetano Veloso w/Ryuichi Sakamoto on the keyboard, Damn I love Cesaria's voice, she got off, this is definetly a favorite, 10.Water to Drink by Incognito w/Omar & Anna Caram was nice, 11.Dancing by Milton Nascimento was enjoyable, 12.How Insensitive done by Antonio Carlos Jobim & Sting, I didn't care for Sting singing this song, I do enjoy Sting's music but not this, he wasn't the man for it. 13.Water of March done by David Byrne & Marisa Monte was okay, but I enjoy Al Jarreau & Oleta Adams rendition on "A Twist of Jobim" better, 15.One Note Samba/Surfboard by Stereolab & Herbie Mann, I didn't care for that techno or computer sounding stuff, it sounded like the music on The Wiz when they were trying to get away from the trash cans, it will get a skip, 17.Black Orpheus Dub by Mad Professor, it had sort of a Rasta, funk, techno flair which was okay, 18.Chico Science & X DJ Soul Slinger, I couldn't get into that either, that will get a skip too, 19.Funk'N Lata's Sambadrome, was short & funky, 20.Giberto Gil's Refazenda, his voice went well with the song, 21.Preciso Dizer Que Te Amo done by Cazuza & Bebel Gilberto was nice, but the sound was off, it sounded like they were singing in a tube. I manly purchased this CD because it had my 2 favorite singers Maxwell and Cesaria Evora & I enjoyed both of their songs immensely. I am totally satisfied with this purchase and it will be one of my favorite CDs which I listen to often.

Great for Jobim Fans.......2002-07-16

If you like Bossa Nova, particularly Antonio Carlos Jobim, you will love this CD. It has covers by many current artists of his songs, as well as some other Brazilian music. I like how the liner has the lyrics in English, but almost all the songs are in Portuguese. The David Byrne Waters of March in an exception, where he sings in English, and a woman is singing in Portuguese, but it works out very well.

An excellent addition. I have most of the songs on the album on at least two other CDs, but the artists have played with the songs enough to complement the originals.

Average customer rating: Pretty good!! Ahhh, real salsa, the kind you rarely hear anymore! Salsa Artistes At Play Good album, but sounds a little off A fantastic album

20 Anniversary of the NY Salsa Festival: 1975-1995 Various Artists Manufacturer: Rmm Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Cuba | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Salsa | Latin Music | Styles | Music Mambo | Latin Music | Styles | Music Salsa & Merengue | Compilations | Latin Music | Styles | Music Charanga | Latin Music | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Soul-Jazz & Boogaloo | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: Salsa Fresca! Dance Hits of the '90s Heavy Salsa Salsa, Merengue, Mambo! Oye Como Va: The Dance Collection 40 Aniversario - El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico ASIN: B00000124E Release Date: 1996-04-16

Tracks:

1. Introduction - Paco Navarro
2. Por Eso Yo Canto Salsa - Fania All-Stars
3. Pedro Navaja - Willie Colon & Ruben Blades
4. Azucar Negra - Celia Cruz
5. El Cantante - Hector Lavoe
6. Sonora Pal' Bailador - Sonora Poncena
7. Dejame Sonar - Tito Puente & Tony Vega
8. Mi Primera Rumba - India & Eddie Palmieri
9. Mentiras - Oscar D'Leon
10. Salsa Caliente - Orquesta De La Luz
11. Los Tenis - El Gran Combo

Tracks:

1. Sonambulo - Tito Nieves
2. Si Tu No Te Fueras - Marc Anthony
3. Experto En Ti - Cheo Feliciano
4. Otra Noche Caliente - Louie Ramirez & Ray De La Paz
5. Oue Manera De Quererte - Gilberto Santa Rosa
6. Salsumba - Tito Puente & Domingo Quinones
7. Una Aventura - Grupo Niche
8. Torero - Orquesta Guayacan
9. Disculpeme Senora - Jose Alberto 'El Canario'
10. Puerto Rico - Frankie Ruiz
11. Bonus Track 1 - The 20th Anniversary Of The NY Salsa Festival

Customer Reviews:

Pretty good!!.......2006-07-28

Sounds great and very well put together. But, If you don't like the live concert sound with audience background noise this cd is not for you.

Ahhh, real salsa, the kind you rarely hear anymore!.......2006-02-24

Every single artist on this CD wears a crown for his/her craft! The days when you could (without fear) stand and dance to the music at the Fania All Stars at Madison Square Garden are gone...but the legacy will never fade. This CD envelops the hearer with the sound of every instrument played and the ballads bathe your ears like a warm waterfall. A must-have for every latino who truly appreciates his/her culture! Pass it on to the next generation.....

Salsa Artistes At Play.......2006-02-03

Live performances that should please both salsa and jazz fans. The Artistes are evidently having a good time playing with and to the audience, judging by the amount of applause generated at appropriate moments. It all makes you wish that you had been there in Madison Square Garden.
The downside to this collection is that you can't really mix the applause out, so I'm going to save this gem to enjoy in the comfort of my own home.

Good album, but sounds a little off.......2004-06-25

I'd give it 4 stars but the introduction tracks are annoying and the "live" sound sounds fake to me. The crowd feels artificial, the recordings sound almost studio like, and the segways don't sound right.
If you can get past that, the music is great.

A fantastic album.......2004-01-16

Put this on when you want to dance!

Average customer rating: Another Masterpeice flawed but quite good this beauty in progress AN UNDERCOVER 'THRILLER'(michael jackson) All the Funk Without the Filth

Ancestry in Progress Zap Mama Manufacturer: Luaka Bop ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music World Dance | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Similar Items: One Step Forward Les Nubians Presents Echos, Chapter One Princesses Nubiennes Zap Mama 7 ASIN: B0002SPQ40 Release Date: 2004-09-14

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. Sweet Melody
3. Vivre
4. Bandy Bandy featuring Erykah Badu
5. Yelling Away featuring Talib Kweli, Common and "?uestlove"
6. Show Me the Way featuring Bahamadia, Lady Alma and "?uestlove"
7. Follow Me
8. Miss QN
9. Yaku
10. Ca Varie Varie
11. Alright
12. Cache Cache
13. Len n 5
14. Wadidyusay? featuring Scratch
15. Zap Bs

Amazon.com

Longtime Zap Mama fans may take issue with the direction Marie Daulne has taken the band. After starting out as a women's a capella group, Daulne started integrating instruments, rappers and programming on Seven, taking it even further on A Ma Zone. Now on Ancestry In Progress, the first ZM album in five years, it's Daulne with help from the Roots, Common, Erykah Badu, Taleb Kweli and others from the hip-hop and R&B community. Nonetheless, the band was always Daulne's, and she's in complete command here again. You still get to wonder at her ability to create weird vocal sounds. Her high raspy cat-like voice is as playful and rhythmic as ever, and her sense of harmony stills draws upon her African roots even if she chooses to put samples over the top. No doubt "Sweet Melody" is one of Daulne's catchiest songs, but other standouts include "Vivre" and "Bandy Bandy." Instead of the African jungle we get the urban jungle, but it's still beautiful music. --Tad Hendrickson

Album Description

The initial run of "Ancestry in Progress" will feature a bonus disc with four exclusive tracks!

Customer Reviews:

Another Masterpeice.......2007-07-02

I became a fan of Zap Mama after I heard the A Ma Zone album several years ago. I went back and bought all of their CD's and I like the fact that they all have their own vibe. Each one has it own musical style, that is not similar to the previous. So then I found Ancestry and Progress and once again Zap Mama has made another masterpiece again.

My favorite songs are Sweet Melody, Bandy Bandy, Miss Q-N, and Yaku. Yet, I like the entire album. I feel that this album really hits a different mark so that it can't really be called World and at the same time it is not R&B, it is somewhere in between. I really use the use of vocals, but also good instrumentation in the songs. After hearing A Ma Zone then hearing this album I would have never expected an album like Ancestry in Progress and I really appreciate that. I can't wait until the next album comes out.

flawed but quite good.......2006-02-02

Skillful yet seemingly effortless tapestries of sounds and voices. Male rapping that actually works as an effective counterpoint to the abundance of "sister energy". Songs that are ephemeral yet anchored in subtle ways, this is a daring yet confident step forward for a project that is, essentially, "The Marie Show" now. Not that that's a bad thing. The male vocals off-set the more cloying aspects which until now popped up far too often. While I admire the manner in which discordant sounds are thrown into the mix, I do wish Marie would be a BIT less self-indulgent with the spoken word parts (as in SHOW ME THE WAY) and (seemingly) affected pigeon English. Oh, well, at least she's shown more decisiveness on when to actually end a song. Overall; breathtaking and unclassifiable. This may sound like over-thinking things, but, I truly enjoy the songs, just hope to see Marie continue to grow up and out of herself. She is SO talented.

this beauty in progress.......2005-09-09

You know how you feel when you sitting on the beach in front of the sea, with the fresh clean breeze gently blowing through your hair. You know how it feels to have that piece of milk chocolate melt gently in your mouth as it mesmerizes all the taste buds on your tongue.
That is what this lady does to you ear drum. Her music is sweeter that honey. And who better to colab with than with Miss Badu herself.
This lady has got magic in her vocal cords and tranquility in her lyrics. My poor soul was starved of good and original sound and she fed my soul. That is the way it should be after all music is intended to be food for the soul

AN UNDERCOVER 'THRILLER'(michael jackson).......2005-04-28

I havent loved this many songs on one cd since Michael Jackson's Thriller. No joke or exaggeration. The only difference iS that this isn't sugercoated pop music for the masses...that's why it's an "undercover Thriller".. It's different, but absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Buy it, love it, live it..Read all of the other perfect reviews. They are true... Peace.

All the Funk Without the Filth.......2005-04-02

It's been a long dry spell since Amazone and this is worth the wait. The album is clearly a follow-up to Amazone, yet the style is refined a little more, so it is not simply Amazone II, the Sequel.

Each composition here is like a little window opening on a slice of life. The blending of the languages brings home, yet again, the universality of music. There are differences between peoples, but this difference is something to share and enjoy, not to separate us into disparate spaces. Whatever your background, you can feel a part of the scenes presented.

The spoken words take me back to the beginning of what is now called rap, to true street corner poetry. Unlike most of today's rap, there are no words you don't want young kids to hear. Instead of degrading women and reducing them to objects to be abused, we are instead reminded that "She is someone's daughter" and to be revered as she is made of "Earth, Wind, Fire, and Water". No malice, no hatred, only love of the highest order. Pure poetry, not gutter rap.

The vocals are perfectly blended and the harmonies are tight. These women blend together a vocal synergy that must be heard to be experienced. The rhythms, capable of standing alone, reinforce the musical magic woven into the tapestry of their sound.

If you truly believe we are one people spread across a small planet, this album will speak to your soul. If you've never been exposed to music like this, you'll be amazed. If you're already a fan of Zap Mama, you won't be disappointed.

Average customer rating: Wow Absolutely Amazing Afrobeat Plus Much More..... what more can you ask for Smokin' Afrobeat

New Tones NOMO Manufacturer: Ubiquity ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Soul-Jazz & Boogaloo | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Jazz Funk | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: Security Lagos No Shaking Nomo Scale Sound of Silver ASIN: B000EXZILE Release Date: 2006-05-09

Tracks:

1. Nu Tones
2. Hand And Mouth
3. Fourth Ward
4. Reasons
5. New Song
6. Divisions
7. Where Do We Go
8. One To One
9. If You Want
10. Book Of Right On
11. Sarvodaya

Album Description

On New Tones home-made Detroit electronics and huge horn sections blast big band funk and riotous jazz. NOMO's roots are firmly planted in the fertile soil of African polyrhythm and American free jazz, and bandleader Elliot Bergman's tracks draw inspiration from cultures and generations wildly different than his home setting. In many ways (at least geographically and sonically) NOMO are a distant relative of the TRIBE collective. Undoubtedly they carry the spirit of the legendary Detroit-label's creative output.

Customer Reviews:

Wow.......2007-06-13

This album is simply amazing. Nomo delivers a group of funky instrumental tracks unlike anything else. You have to hear it to believe it.

Absolutely Amazing.......2007-03-04

I've been listening to jazz and world music for almost four decades, i grew up on Coltrane and Miles and all of it... This group is simply unbelievalbe. Yes, it's very painful how unknown they are. It's been many years since i've been this excited about a new group/CD on the horizon. Fantatsic stuff, just check it out!

Afrobeat Plus Much More............2006-12-01

This talented group of musicians has taken Afrobeat to next level. Combining elements of Soul, Funk and Avant-garde Jazz to create the most groovin' get your booty movin' sound around. With horn passages that are catchy and memorable throughout the album. Just pop this baby in and you're good to go.

what more can you ask for.......2006-10-28

This jazzy afrobeat is easily one of the year's best albums. And unlike most afrobeat, the songs don't extend to 15 minutes so you never get bored. This is just a great listen from start to finish, whether it's in your headphones, on your computer at work or in your car. And they're also great live. Nomo is so overlooked, it's actually painful. I'm in pain right now. I have to go.

Smokin' Afrobeat.......2006-05-31

This album is pure smokin' afrobeat. Just throw this disc in and party. Newtones captures the raw energy of their live shows and gives it to you in a convenient package that you can listen to whenever you want. It's my favorite cd right now.

Average customer rating: Just as I remembered it. Blast From The Past "Back in time" Better have good speakers BEYOND AWESOME!

Woyaya Osibisa Manufacturer: Aim Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Ghana | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music R&B | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Osibisa Very Best of Osibisa Heads Welcome Home Osibirock ASIN: B00000G5XA Release Date: 1993-12-13

Tracks:

1. Beautiful Seven
2. Y Sharp
3. Spirits Up Above
4. Survival
5. Move On
6. Rabiatu
7. Woyaya

Album Description

Their second release from 1971 with original LP cover art.

Album Description

Aussie edition of the world music sensation's 1971 album. 7 tracks.

Album Details

1995 rerelease of this classic, ethereal 1971 West Indian / Afro-funk / world beat recording. Features the musica genius of band leader Teddy Osei (tenor sax, flute, African drums, vocals).

Customer Reviews:

Just as I remembered it........2007-05-10

Though it is now a little dated, this CD has held up well. It's still exciting, and it was done without all of today's technology!

Blast From The Past.......2005-12-21

Normally when I think of "World Music" I want to stick my finger down my throat and gag, but in this case... I only bring this up because I have seen Osibisa classified in the World Music genre and I hate to categorize them that way, however accurate it may be.

I got this album in the early seventies because of the album cover alone. That was enough to pique my interest. The music was surely not what I expected but it has a groove to it that I liked. This album was especially good with heavy incense, a black light, and that cover done over in dayglo paint. The good old days!

I have not heard this or their first album in thirty years yet I can still remember the melody to Woyaya. I suppose if you are a World Music freak then this album is for you. They were original, and they were unique and there has never been anything quite like them since. The combination of Wendell Richardson and Teddy Osei had magic that still shines through today. To me, Osibisa is the exception to the rule and I highly recommend them even for rockers!

"Back in time".......2005-10-26

This is an excellent music and is able to take you back in time to remember. Great experience, and is still able to make your heart beat faster.

Better have good speakers.......2004-11-10

This is one CD that I use to test speakers. Fire up Survival, turn up the volume, if they can handle this, they are fine. Why you ask? Because this is meant to be played loud, and the bass will rattle a room. WARNING if you rent, don't try this at home. Beautiful 7, and the uplifting ending cut Woyaya make this a must have for world music fans.

BEYOND AWESOME!.......2004-05-27

This has got to be one of my all time favorite albums! I have been listening to it since my brother brought it home from his friends house after the album first came out. My brother's friend got it from his own brother who worked at a radio station so I think it was a promotional album. I still have the vinyl album. In fact,I was so impressed with not only the music but also the cover artwork that I had the flying elephant TATTOOED ON MY BACK!! I feel this is their best album but it has been quite awhile since I have heard any of their other music. The songs on this album have been stuck in my head for over 30 years and I never get tired of them. Another album that I would recommend is "Flaming Drums" by Olatunji. This album was made in 1962 on Columbia records. I bought it at a yard sale or used record store in 1969 or 1970[or there-abouts] and have been enjoying it ever since. I cannot wait to get them both on cd so I can enjoy them in my vehicles. Broaden your musical horizons and buy this music.

Average customer rating: I remember Barretto (The Acid Conga) player!

Best of Ray Barretto Ray Barretto Manufacturer: Charly UK ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Salsa | Latin Music | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Soul-Jazz & Boogaloo | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Jazz | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Best of Fania All-Stars Gold Time Was - Time Is Que Pasa: The Best of the Fania All Stars The Best of Willie Colon ASIN: B00020QYXK Release Date: 2004-05-24

Tracks:

1. Soul Drummer - Ray Barretto
2. Fuerza Gigante - Ray Barretto
3. Night in Tunisia - Ray Barretto
4. Al Ver Sus Campos - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
5. Oye la Noticia - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
6. Hard Hands - Ray Barretto
7. Quitate la Mascara - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
8. Hijo de Obatal Ray Barretto, Celia Cruz, Adalberto Santiago
9. Cana y la Plantacion - Ray Barretto
10. Acid - Ray Barretto
11. Adelante Siempre Voy - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
12. Watusi - Ray Barretto
13. Arallue - Ray Barretto
14. Ejes de Mi Carretta - Ray Barretto
15. Flor de los Lindos Campos - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago

Tracks:

1. Indestructible - Tito Allen, Ray Barretto
2. Rhythm of Life - Ray Barretto
3. Tuyo y lo Mio - Ray Barretto
4. Granada - Ray Barretto
5. Mareados - Ray Barretto
6. Boogaloo Con Soul - Ray Barretto
7. Prestame Tu Mujer - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
8. Mirame de Frente - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
9. Llantto de Crocodrilo - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
10. Right On - Ray Barretto
11. Que Bonita Es Mi Tierra - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
12. Dia Sere Feliz - Ray Barretto
13. Piensa en Mi - Ray Barretto
14. Ya Vez - Ray Barretto, Adalberto Santiago
15. Mi Dedication - Ray Barretto

Customer Reviews:

I remember Barretto (The Acid Conga) player!.......2006-03-30

I personally do not consider this CD his best. He has other albums with better music. Barretto ranks as one of my favorite conga players. On this CD he does not have many conga solos but, the songs are very good. He was one of the first New York Ricans to interpret the Afro-Cuban music in New York, with the hit "El Watusi". To me my favorite albums from him are "Que Viva La Musica" and "Acid/Head Sounds". I still remember him doing a conga duel with Mongo at the Yankee Stadium during the Fania All Stars concert, it was difficult for the crowd to take sides between him and Mongo, these guys really put up a great show that night. The concert had to be cancelled do to an uncontrolled fight between the fans. I also remember him when he came to Miami (1977) to play with Fania All Stars at The Miami Beach Convention Center. The place was packed, and all the Miami Beach residents (Elderly Jews) were amazed at the enormous young Latin crowd. I had a good time seen all my favorite Latin celebrities on stage for the first time. It was a sad day for me when I was informed by my Puerto Rican friends of his recent death. Another good conguero leaves us. +Ray Barretto+ R.I.P

Average customer rating: IF YOU LIKED THE ORIGINAL ALBUM... smooth wood Soul Sauce - Cal Tjader Review my favorite things If You Aren't Familiar With Cal Tjader...

Soul Sauce Cal Tjader Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music Cuba | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Cool Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Bebop & Post-Bop | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Latino El Sonido Nuevo: The New Soul Sound Black Orchid Soul Burst Cal Tjader - Greatest Hits ASIN: B0000046TJ Release Date: 1994-10-18

Tracks:

1. Soul Sauce (Guachi Guaro)
2. Afro-blue
3. Pantano
4. Somewhere In The Night
5. Maramoor Mambo
6. Tanya
7. Leyte
8. Spring Is Here
9. Joao
10. Soul Sauce (Guachi Guaro) (Rough Mix)
11. Monkey Beams
12. Ming
13. Mamblues

Customer Reviews:

IF YOU LIKED THE ORIGINAL ALBUM..........2006-11-10

I'm no jazz fan per se... I just liked that original "Soul Sauce". They called it "Guachi Guaro" ...to me it sounded like "What chu wadda". When my girl friend expressed an interest in having this, it was not a difficult decision to go for this digital version. I highly recommend that you under 60 people, who have no clue about Cal Tjader and latin jazz, listen to a clip of "Soul Sauce" and what ever other title on this album strikes your fancy.

smooth wood.......2006-05-03

Cal Tjader went to the next level in his craft with this album, which probably influenced many great bands (look for the Herbaliser in "take London"). Wonderfully executed, with a smooth clean latin vibe, Cal isn't afraid to step off the tracks and go beyond clich?s of Latin music. very good

Soul Sauce - Cal Tjader Review.......2006-03-15

This Album was one of Cal Tjader's best, the sound quality on CD improved a great deal from what I remember, all the tracks are "EXCELLENT"!!

my favorite things.......2005-01-05

I like to play this album in the summer. It's fun to listen to outside while you're BBQing or running around the yard in your bathing suit.

If You Aren't Familiar With Cal Tjader..........2003-08-09

...this is a really good start. How a white guy from Chicago became the king of Latin jazz in his day is a whole other story, but talent had something to do with it ;) My favorite on this CD is Tanya, the title track and Ming have been mentioned in other reviews; several of the tracks are a little slower and cooler (Leyte, Somewhere in the Night, Spring Is Here, for example). All in all a good roundup of Tjader's styles.

Average customer rating: How could I have possibly forgotten how good this is Osibisa from Africa Mottsibisa VERY NICE These Cats are OUT OF CONTROL!

Osibisa Osibisa Manufacturer: Aim Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Ghana | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music R&B | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Woyaya Heads Very Best of Osibisa Welcome Home Heads ASIN: B00000I25R Release Date: 1993-12-13

Tracks:

1. Dawn
2. Music for Gong Gong
3. Oyiko Bia
4. Akwaaba
5. Oranges
6. Phallus C.
7. Think About the People

Album Description

Their first release in 1971. An absolute classic with a mini-LP cover!

Customer Reviews:

How could I have possibly forgotten how good this is.......2005-07-26

Like many of the other reviewers here, I first heard this band/album back in early 70's. Their music is simply great, the energy, the talent - everything. I'm listening to it again after a too long hiatus (it's on my vinyl collection) and I'm stunned - how could I have forgotten this music - I'm ordering their CDs. My siblings will instantly break into smiles at the mention of the phrase "Osibisa - crisscross rythyms that explode with happiness" and then they'll repeat the line "we gonna start this happy vibes right from the root, and the root is early one morning in the heart of Africa." If you like earlier Santana, I'm pretty sure you'll like this - it's different, more African with a twist of Caribbean - but most of all it is just fun.

Osibisa from Africa.......2005-07-18

One night in 1970 lying in my bed inside my psychedelic room listening to my Panasonic/Quadraphonic (forerunner of the surround sound today) component set. I heard on the FM radio station the complete two albums "Osibisa/Woyaya", I was so impressed with their music that the following day I ran to the store to buy both albums! At the time the Santana band was my favorite band. However, Osibisa with their unique African sound became another favorite band of mine. The percussion and the rhythms make you feel you are in Africa. Today I still collect their CD's and listen to the music that once brought the savage out of me; I'll see you later bwanna!

Mottsibisa.......2004-07-23

'Osibisa' was formed in London, England in 1969 by a multi-racial group of musicians; all with the same interests in music. The nucleus of the band was from Ghana, others, like the unbelievable guitarist Wendell Richardson, came from Antigua; the bass player who was simply known as Spartacus (I'm Spartacus!) was from Grenada; the keyboard player from Trinidad; and the saxophonist was from Nigeria. However, what they all had in common was great musical rhythm, enthusiasm, and ability. Their music was borrowed from Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, African based drum music, Rock, Pop, and Latin Groove, to create quite an original sound.

In Ghanaian 'Osibisa' means 'criss-cross rhythms that explode with happiness'. Now, how one word can say all that I do not know, but that is exactly how the music sounds, and they are the very words that introduce the first song on this, Osibisa's first, album aptly titled "Dawn".

Like a breath of fresh air, Osibisa's music first came to prominence with the release of their first single "Music for Gong Gong'', included here on their first album, which was released at the tail end of 1970. It is a piece of music that will get even the most conservative of souls out boogieing on the dance floor. So it was great expectations when their first album was released in the early days of 1971 and the boys did not disappoint, arriving as it did when Prog-Rock was in its heyday. Each of these percussive driven songs blew away all the pretensions of those serious minded twiddlers in the likes of Yes, King Crimson, etc. Osibisa's unbridled enthusiasm was so infectious, you could not help but be dragged along by the sheer exuberance of it all.

Although Osibisa's main strength was in their live concerts, they could also drum up a storm (quite literally) in the studio. Nobody at the time could have realized how influential their music was going to be in years ahead. Osibisa today is still known as the Godfather of 'World Music', and the effect of their big hit single "Sunshine Day" (1975) was to change the disco scene for ever. But this, their first album, was to set the template of the Osibisa sound for eternity. The band is still going today, albeit with only two of the seven original members left, which actually is not bad by today's standards considering that the band is now in their 35th year.

Many of the songs on this collection are still in the band's live repertoire today. Like all good albums, the songs on this set play like a live concert. Opener "Dawn", which begins with the immortal translation of Osibisa, builds on a rhythm of percussion until giving way to let the individual soloist bring the song to a rousing conclusion - some seven and a half minutes later. You then get five other songs of criss-cross rhythms before being brought to a riotous climax by "Think About The People".

When a band starts off its career with such a strong album, it is often difficult to keep up the standards set by its debut (especially with an ever changing line-up - Wendell Richardson, the band?s simply stunning lead guitarist, was at one stage lured away by British rockers "Free"). So it is perhaps true to say that Osibisa's studio output has been a little patchy since then, although their live concerts have never been short of marvelous, always led by Teddy Osei out front on drums, sax, fluttering flute, and vocals. This, their first album, is nothing short of a diamond. A must buy for anybody who likes a shot of fun with their music.

Pawed by Mott the Dog
Re-Chewed by Ella Crew

VERY NICE.......2004-01-06

Makes me think of Blood,Sweat&Tears mixed with Mandrill and a
drop of old time Santana for spice. Mostly in a language I don't
understand. Yet so much more. Loved it!
Thank you,
Tom

These Cats are OUT OF CONTROL!.......2003-03-29

I cannot BELIEVE this albun is on CD!My Mom used to rock it when I was only eight years old -- and I have been searching for it all of my adult life! "PHALLUS C" is my hands, down, favorite song in the entire World! I can sing the WHOLE guitar riff by heart! And I DEFY YOU to sit still during the drum sequence! These Cats give hyperactivity a new meaning! I'm wasted! This is damn good music!

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