<<

CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

WYCE Music Journal: Luminescent Orchestrii

Neptune's Daughter March 16, 2009 Neptune's Daughter, by NYC's Luminescent Orchestrii, is an intriguing blend of traditional Romanian Gypsy folk , rhythm, bluesy vocals, and improvisation. The Orchestrii, or small ensemble with orchestral intentions, is made up of a fiddler and guitarist from the NYC Theatre underground, a free-jazz bassist, and an old-time fiddler. The group toured extensively in for a time, gaining much. Their music is not something you would expect to hear in modern America, but certainly welcome nonetheless. – Matt Kwiek

Fula Flute

Mansa America March 9, 2009 Sure, opening cut "Obama" (#1) feels like a bit of a novelty after the 2008 election. But concentrate on the playing - especially Bailo Bah's and Sylvain Leroux's crazy good flute chops - instead of the foreign language words, and the track will win you over like everything else on the disc. This traditional-based Fulani music from the Fouta Djalon highlands of Guinea features complex balafon, kora, and flute solos that feel like the wellspring of American jazz, especially when paired with genuine jazz change-ups. But there's also a stateliness to the instrumentation that somehow seems classical. The two strains combine brilliantly on "Fouta Canada" (#5), thanks to a seamlessly integrated horn section. It's the Fulani flute that steals the show on "Lele"(#4) and "Boloba" (#6) via performances so physical, it's as if the flutist is trying to fit his entire body into the mouthpiece. The vocal interjections that punctuate these solos increase the crazy intensity of an already thrilling recording. - Bob Tarte

Mishka

Above the Bones March 9, 2009 Mishka's third , Above the Bones, is a socially charged album reminiscent of Bob Marley. Mishka appeals to his Bermudian heritage for a funky reggae feel, but cannot escape the folk and rock influences of his Canadian heritage. Above the Bones was an independent project produced by Mishka with the help of guitarist Darryl Thompson and the creative assistance of Matthew McConaughey. It's a free-spirited album, bringing new light to the reggae genre. – Intern Matt

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 1 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Liz Carroll and John Doyle

Double Play March 9, 2009 Two of the finest Celtic musicians, Liz Carroll and John Doyle have teamed up again to produce a beautiful collection of tunes. Carroll’s fiddling is as superb as ever, and Doyle’s (and voice on three tracks) complement it nicely. If you enjoy at all, this disc is for you. Of the three tracks with , my preference is “Down at the Wakehouse/The True Love of My Heart,” but you really can’t pick a bad track here. - Tim Smith

LOS FABULOSOS CADILLACS

LA LUZ DEL RITMO March 3, 2009 LA LUZ DEL RITMO Los Fabulosos Cadillacs has been described as “’s hippest musical export pumping Latin heat into punk, reggae and fun for a wild ride that demolishes borders.” I can’t agree more after a seven year absence LFC has provided us with this year’s ultimate party CD. Most tracks on this disc blend all the genres listed above into an infectious groove that would fill any floor with a lot of hot sweat drenched body’s. Most tracks are LFC originals with the exception of their masterful cover of the Clash’s “Should I Stay or Should I Go.” If the Jammies or Grammy’s adds a category for best party CD of the year this disc should walk away with the award. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur Quick Links: Los Fabulosos Cadillacs Home Page Amazon

MO' HORIZONS

TEN YEARS OF January 27, 2009 MO HORIZONS TEN YEARS OF Mo’Horizons music has always been a little hard to describe, so I am going to try; Sexy, Seductive, Bossa Nova, Jazz, Dance, Funky, , Caribbean Beats, Original and fun music are just a few adjectives that describe Mo’ Horizons. Located in Lower Saxony Germany or as they call Boss Hanover, the duo of Ralf Droesemeyer and Mark Foh Weizer have release 4 terrific studio discs over the past 10 years. This disc would represent a terrific place to start for the unfamiliar listener as it captures some of the finest on these discs. The bonus disc is also well done and will be a must for all fans of this duo. This disc should find a permanent spot in your CD changer for a long time to come. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur Quick Links: All Music Guide Amazon

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 2 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

ROKIA TRAORE

Tchamantche January 24, 2009 Singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, Rokia Traore describes her music as "something contemporary with traditional instruments". This is Ms. Traore's fourth release. Her first one was released in 1998 and received the Radio France International Prize for African Discovery of the Year. This is a pretty album. It is comprised of Rokia's pleasing voice, a Gretsch guitar, the n'goni (a tiny West-African ), classical harp, traditional percussion, and backing vocals. Human beat box, Sly Johnson, adds to the mix as well. I have to point out "Kounandi" as a nice piece featuring traditional harp and guitar keeping the beat for the lovely vocals. "Tounka" is nicely upbeat and features more of a pop sound with its kit drums. All these songs were written by Rokia, herself, except for the Gershwin piece, "The Man I Love", which was originally made popular by Billy Holiday. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth. Quick Links: Rokia Traore's Website Nonesuch Records Website

FEMI KUTI

Day By Day January 1, 2009 Femi Kuti, son of the legendary founder and political activist, Fela Kuti, takes up his father's mantle with this mixture of Afrobeat and jazz, backed by the 17-member Positive Force. Femi, like his late father, flirts with attracting the wrath of the Nigerian government as he decries corruption and encourages people to empower themselves. Some musicians face barriers that we can't imagine here. Femi mentions that he was particularly influenced by American jazz musicians in making this record, and that's most apparent in "They Will Run," "You Better Ask Yourself" and "Do You Know" (the latter is an instrumental after which he mentions many of the names of jazz greats). W-Africa 01/09 Michael J. Quick Links: Femi Kuti bio and music Femi's Myspace site

LUCKY DUBE

RETROSPECTIVE December 2, 2008 Inspired by Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, South African Lucky Dube brought Reggae to the land of apartheid and used his recordings to speak endlessly about the need to end corruption, racism, Aids, poor education and black-on-black violence. Ironically, in 2007, at the age of 43, Dube fell victim to the

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 3 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

violence that he preached against during a random car-jacking. While that tragic event stilled an urgent voice of change, the world is left with the 22 he recorded in his too short life. This set collects some of the highlights from his career. Disc one is a standard music disc while disc two is a dvd recording. The first two tracks, "Baxolelemi" and "Abathakathi" on disc one are representative of the zulu party music (mbaganga) that fueled his career before he switched to English fueled by a Reggae beat. The balance of the set has much the same exuberance but is aimed at both your hips and your head. With a large band and back up choir in tow on most tracks the music hits has hard as the lyrics. Worthy of much spinnage! Smitty

DELEON

– DeLeon October 27, 2008 To classify DeLeon in any one category almost doesn’t seem fair. They’re not rock, pop, or world. Believe it or not, monikers like those aren’t vague enough to explain exactly what it is that DeLeon does. The result, built on a base of haunted 15th century Spanish shepherding music, is creepy, and deliciously weird. Along the vein of and Gogol Bordello, DeLeon has taken an obscure sect of traditional European folk (this time Jewish, Spanish, and gypsy) and given it their own modern flavor, but instead of heavy punk infusion, there is an indie-ish hip-hop and dub presence that really sets them apart. It leaves the listener feeling cloudy and strange. The whole album plays like chocolate with chili pepper on a cold evening in the woods with no moon. It’s that kind of weird, and that kind of good. The lyrics bounce from Spanish to Hebrew to English incoherently at times, and as with most English translations, come out a little corny but the positively baleful and gorgeous voice of singer Daniel Saks more than compensates. This guy is their ace in the hole and has found the perfect nest amidst this mash-up of drum machines, electric , and more traditional sounds. Good to play front to back so you can enjoy it’s intensity and almost painful (think the Smiths a little) joy, DeLeon has come up with a sound that stays with you long after the album is over. Perfect for seducing an emotional exchange student, or your next foray into mysticism. Check out tracks 6, 10 and 12 especially. – Stef-alopogus

GAELIC STORM

- What’s the Rumpus? October 20, 2008 Another fine release from this international Celtic band. There are plenty of tunes to dance to, although there are a few slower, serious ones too, including tracks 2,5 and 11. Is track 2, Lover’s Wreck, actually a ? style, of course. Although I haven’t seen them perform these songs yet, I suspect tracks 1, 3, 7 & 12 will become crowd favorites. At

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 4 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

least they are mine. There are four fine instrumentals: tracks 4,8,10 & 13, with pipes being featured on 8 & 13. Beware, the 9th song is in Gaelic. The last song, The Night I Punched Russell Crowe, is a fun song of a true story about an encounter that singer Patrick Murphy had with The Gladiator. But remember, the name of an earlier song is Don’t Let the Truth Get in the Way of a Good Story! Plenty of lively, Celtic fun on this CD…….J.R.

GAELIC STORM

- Bring Yer Wellies October 20, 2008 More great stuff from this fun-loving band! As you might guess, most of the songs on this CD are upbeat. Track 10 is slow, but still nice work. My favorite sing-alongs are tracks 2,7,9,12 & 14. Track 3 is the continuation of the story of Johnny Tarr (from their earlier CD, “Tree”), while track 4 sounds like a sea-shanty. Tracks 2 and 14 have become audience participation songs at their live shows, with the crowd divided into two groups and singing different lines of the chorus on track 2. Track 14 , Kiss Me I’m Irish has been used by Hallmark on one of their “musical cards”, for St. Patrick’s Day of course! Track number 5 is sung in Gaelic, which makes it difficult to sing along. The following songs are instrumentals: Tracks 6 & 11 feature pipes, while the is prominent for songs 8 & 13. If you enjoy Gaelic Storm, you will find lot’s to like on “Bring Yer Wellies” (which is a lot easier to say than “Bring Yer Wellington Boots”). I like this release more every time I hear it……….J.R.

CURUMIN

- Japan Pop Show October 20, 2008 Luciano Nakata Albuquerque, is a Brazilian of Spanish/Japanese ancestry, early on he earned the moniker Curumin (Koo-roo-mean), a term reserved by indigenous Brazilians for their more precocious children. By the time he was 8, he'd already formed his first rock band with classmates, with pots and pans substituting for a proper . His intelligent assimilation and synthesis of American New Wave, Reggae/Dub, Afro-Beat and Brazilian Samba is too good to ignore. Flawless layers and samples BPM’s inundate the listener into Curumin’s truth and awareness. The palpitations of “Dancando No Escuro” stream cerebrally through soul and vibrate our earthen roots. Mal Estar Card drops in on everything with wide bass lines in an undertow below slinky guitar chops. Legendary San Franciscan Tommy Guerrero leaves his string work all over the Japanese inflected “Sambito” of track 11. Japan Pop Show is a shiny round one worth dropping coin for. – While Lee Notable Tracks: 2. Compacto, 4.Dancando No Escuro, 5.Salto No Vacuo Com Joelhada, 10. Mal Estar Card

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 5 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

JOHN BROWN'S BODY

Amplify October 6, 2008 John Brown’s Body has come a long way from my introduction to them at Bell’s Eccentric Café in 1999, at which point they were a group of skinny, kind of nerdy white kids pumping out some jaw-dropping, booty-shaking reggae thunder. Since then, their sound has matured and gained complexity. It has also taken a turn more toward the serious reggae-as-social-commentary angle – a departure from their earlier reggae-as-soundtrack-to- fun style. They’ve also added some rap lyrics (“Amplify, “Shake the Dice”). Those changes come, in part, through an overhaul of the band’s line-up. From the original members on 1996’s All Time, only drummer Tommy Benedetti and back-up vocalist (now frontman) Elliot Martin remain. Amplify is tight, well- produced and thought-provoking. It’s just not as fun as some of their older stuff. ::arthur longrapids::

John Brown’s Body

- Amplify October 6, 2008 John Brown’s Body has come a long way from my introduction to them at Bell’s Eccentric Café in 1999, at which point they were a group of skinny, kind of nerdy white kids pumping out some jaw-dropping, booty-shaking reggae thunder. Since then, their sound has matured and gained complexity. It has also taken a turn more toward the serious reggae-as-social-commentary angle – a departure from their earlier reggae-as-soundtrack-to- fun style. They’ve also added some rap lyrics (“Amplify, “Shake the Dice”). Those changes come, in part, through an overhaul of the band’s line-up. From the original members on 1996’s All Time, only drummer Tommy Benedetti and back-up vocalist (now frontman) Elliot Martin remain. Amplify is tight, well- produced and thought-provoking. It’s just not as fun as some of their older stuff. ::arthur longrapids:: Notes: All FCC-clean. Track #4, very slow fade out (ends 6:46) Quick Links:

PISTOLERA

~ En Este Camino September 29, 2008 While in a language I'd largely forgotten (despite my two years of Spanish in high school) isn't necessarily my thing, after a couple of listens to the sophomore effort of Brooklyn based Pistolera, I was widely impressed. Thanks to their website that offered a translation of their lyrics into a more understandable form, I was able to listen with new ears the second time around. The album kicks off with the catchy and hope-filled dance track Nuevas Ojos (New Eyes). While this optimistic view is heard throughout, the second track, Piloto

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 6 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

(Pilot) perhaps exemplifies this the most as it sheds some political light on border control by offering the following simple and yet heart-felt lyrics: "one door close and another opens. There is always a way out." Another standout albeit melancholy track is the driven Inquieta (Restless) which delves beautifully into reminiscing about the past. This is followed by the horn-driven and political Extranjero (Foreigner) that reminds us all that we are all foreigners so "don't forget it." As a fan of Bob Marley, I was pleasantly surprised to hear Pistolera tackle his Guerra (War) – yet another standout track on this recording. To hear raggae with the Latin percussion and in another language was truly a treat and proved to be a winner on all accounts. Overall, Pistolera's release En Este Camino was a pleasant surprise to me and I trust will offer you a bit of a surprise as well if you're willing to give it a listen. by Jeff Bouma Quick Links:

Various Artists – Absolutely Irish

Absoulutely Irish Soundrack September 23, 2008 Truly an amazing lineup in this one-time event. This release on Compass Records probably has something to do with their acquisition of . –P Luke Doucet And The White Falcon: Blood's Too Rich (2008) In his twenties, he was noted as the backbone of 's famed indie band Veal, where he first picked up his "guitar god" reputation, and now he's one of the most in demand guitarists in Canada. Three solo albums later, Luke has emerged as a champion storyteller and fearless musician. Produced by Luke himself, Blood's too rich features his band, The White Falcon, named after the model of his beloved Gretsch guitar. Take the weary eponymous hero of opener "Long Haul Driver", on the road for 2000 miles, or the in-crisis laser heading west in "Motorbike". These tales are married to Neil Young and Crazy Horse and The Band inspired swaggering stompers, loping, loose guitar showcases and delicate acoustic numbers. –Joe Parsaca Quick Links: Compass Records Website

FUNKADESI

– Yo Baba September 15, 2008 ’s Funkadesi is hard to fit into a little paragraph. Mashing music styles from the Carribbean to East Indian to Euro- American jazz and hip-hop, their third major release Yo Baba literally has something for every ear. Surprisingly enough considering the million different genres and sounds present, this album plays coherently, and frankly stone-solid, almost the whole way through. And it’s fun. Really fun. Every type of feel- good music is represented. Equal parts dub-style reggae and

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 7 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

East Indian vocals mixed with jazz (“No Leans”) and a little hip- hop (Chicago MC Anacron guests on “Galsun”) makes for a captivating listen no matter where you start. There are half- naked slow jams like “Dolare” and scorching bongo solos all over the place, so don’t expect to just do one thing while this is on. The opening track “Crash da Party” is most essential for Funkadesi’s (pronounced -a-dessee) mixed-up sound, and absolutely electric. I’m also really digging the unexpected vocal presence of lead singer Navaraaz Basati, who lends interesting and frosting-like Bollywood vocals over hip-swaying, bass-heavy instrumentals. My Pashti is a little rusty so I can’t tell you if the language is 100% radio friendly, but the tracks in English are clean and these guys seem to be focused on well-initiated fun, not profanity. Even during the quiet times though, these guys know what they’re doing, making the whole album and intricate and riotous ride. Just a warning though, if you’re listening while attempting to clean your house, there will be bad dancing so make sure you’re alone. – Stef Quick Links: Funkadesi's Official Website

RAM DASS & KRIECE

- COSMIX September 15, 2008

RAM DASS & KRIECE

- COSMIX September 15, 2008 This is a collaboration between Australian Electronic DJ Kriece and 60s psychedelic guru Ram Dass. Although less relevant today then in the 90s when “chill-out” music first enjoyed huge popularity, this LP conjures visions of all night, drug fueled parties on distant beaches. The music is a trance mix of /tribal beats, dub baselines and vocal snippets of Ram Dass chopped and looped. While Ram Dass’ spoken words are few, they create a powerful mood and combine nicely with Kriece’s percussion heavy grooves. With a sound similar to The Orb, or DJ Shawdow, the tracks all reasonable in length and broadcast friendly. Check out tracks #2, #3, and #4, a mystical mantra about drug use and eventual enlightenment Quick Links: waveform records website

Various Artists-Calypsoul 70: Caribbean and Calypso Crossover 1969-1979

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 8 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Calypsoul 70: Caribbean and Calypso Crossover 1969- 1979 September 15, 2008 The Caribbean is an incredibly diverse melting pot of cultures, and this collection of tracks shows not only the influence of various styles on Caribbean music (calypso, reggae, African, soul, and funk) but also the influence of Caribbean music on the world. Taking the listener on a non-stop island hop, the tracks go from steel pan rarities (#11 – Trinidad), third world social commentary (#5 by “” pioneer Lancelot Lane), Latin dynamite (#13 – Martinique legend Marius Cultier), salsa (#3), and Afro Beat political jump ups (#17 ). There are also a couple fusion tracks that get funky and sweaty (#7 – St Lucia & 19). This collection captures the sound and the feel of the era, and every selection is worth a listen. It is funky, tropical, and some of the greatest calypso performers appear in rare form. – Tim Morgan

NIYAZ

Nine Heavens August 18, 2008 has come very far, very fast. The trio’s 2005 debut made them standout amongst an over-crowded field. On Nine Heavens, Niyaz sets out to prove that producing well- arranged songs is the key to a solid album. This record is split into two, one being called “acoustic” although its hardly the simple voice and guitar approach. Its as sonically rich as the first disc. Drawing on some 300-year old Persian folk songs, this album not only transcends cultural and stylistic boundaries, but centuries as well. Reviewed By LaRae Quick Links: Niyaz's Website

BAJO FONDO

MAR DULCE August 18, 2008 Bajofondo has been a pioneer in what has been known as “electronica tango,” and the band quickly caused a stir in Argentina and all over the world with its unique genre. This eight-member band, with seven musicians and a VJ who triggers images in real time along with the music, has also started to integrate Latin American folkloric music into its performances. Mar Dulce was recorded all over the world which reflects the band’s cosmopolitan attraction, as well as the eclectic line up of guest artists such as and Mala Rodriguez. This album has a certain melancholy sound that has something to do with the cities’ of origins old traditional barrios, which one of the band members likes to call, “cosmic tango.” Reviewed By LaRae Quick Links: Bajofondo's Website http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 9 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Ayombe: The Heart of Columbia's Musica Vallenata August 9, 2008 This disc presents "musica vallenata" ("music of the valley"), traditional to northeastern Columbia. There are four forms presented: two tend to be faster paced (puya and merengue) and two generally slower paced (son and paseo). The accordion playing on the puya numbers is extraordinary -- hard to imagine playing all of those keys so swiftly! Two other instruments you will hear on many of these numbers are the caja, a single- headed conical short-bodied drum, and the guacharaca, a similar to a stick with notches cut into the wood. Another glimpse into the talent and tradition of another corner of our amazing musical world. MJVD 08/08 W- Latin (Columbia) Quick Links: Folkways site on Ayombe

ELJURI

En Paz July 7, 2008 Ecuadorian guitarist Cecilia Villar Eljuri --who goes by her last name as an artist -- delivers a strong set of Latin rhythms and vocals on this disc, devoted to her roots. Raised by a mom and dad famous in the Latin arts community of City, where she was raised, Eljuri was raised on until she became interested in her musical heritage. Reggae royalty Sly and Robbie assist on the opening track and vocalist Johnette Napolitano duels with her on "Jaula." Catchy guitar hooks abound, and even sounds Santana-ish on "Peligrosa." The closing "bonus" number is actually by her mom, Olga; daughter reworks the song earlier in the set. A great talent. 07/08 MJVD W-Latin (South America) Quick Links: Eljuri's home page Her Myspace page

CAPERCAILLIE

Roses and Tears June 7, 2008 The fifteenth release from this band which hails from and if you are a fan of their music. You will not be disappointed. Karen Matheson’s voice is only improving with time and still as crystal clear as it was the first CD they released. Personally of all the Celtic bands out there this is my favorite of all. There are a fair amount of Reels here so take your pick, they are all DAM FINE. But the cuts that grabbed my attention the most are number 3 and number 9. Maybe it’s the

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 10 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

dual front wars we are waging but they seem very pertinent to the current state of world affairs. If someone were to ask me to pick a bad cut from this CD my comment to them would be to choose another CD, there is just nothing here I did not like or listen to numerous times. I’m looking forward to seeing this one land in the rotation.

PATHAAN

Tandava Volume 2 June 5, 2008 Pathaan is a UK-based DJ. He's probably most famous in the UK as the host of a BBC show called "Pathaan's Musical Rickshaw". This is an album of songs by global artists that Pathaan has compiled and re-mixed. The album is basically electronica-chill- out music. All the songs blend together into one big groove. If you're going to play this on-air, I'd recommend the first song, "The Eternities". It has a nice mellow vibe that would be a nice late-night listen. Also, the fourth and fifth tracks are slightly upbeat songs that blend together, but could also be played on their own. Track #6, "To the Shore", in particular, is a favorite of mine. Due to the use of sitar and strings, it has a nice feel to it. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth Quick Links: Pathaan's website Pathaan's Myspace Sounds True Website

TREMOLOCO

Dulcinea May 29, 2008 A blend of Country, Mexican, Roots Music, and Americana make up this debut album. Some songs in Spanish some in English. Wyce friendly. I liked the Mexicana songs best. There is a real mixing genres on this cd. But what gets the wow factor going for me is the list of guest musicians.! INCLUDING: DAVID HIDALGO - (Los Lobos),COUGAR ESTRADA - (Los Lobos, Ricki Lee Jones, Latin Playboys),GREG LEISZ - (Dave Alvin, K.D. Lang, Tracy Chapman, Bill Frisell, BRANTLEY KEARNS - (Dave Alvin, Dwight Yoakam), JOHNNY LEE SCHELL - (, Taj Mahal, John Fogerty). JENNIFER CONDOS - (Ryan Adams, Don Henley), STEPHEN BRUTON - (, , IAN MCLAGAN - (Small Faces, Faces, Rolling Stones, ,) - (, Bob Dylan, Rosie Flores). - Anne Lamont Quick Links: Bands website - Tremolocos

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 11 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Scythian

Immigrant Road Show May 26, 2008 Rabble-rousing and raucous, Scythian play high energy music fusing gypsy, celtic, Americana, Klezmer, with a big rock sensibility. They've been tearing up the East coast for several years now, causing outbreaks of extemporaneous tambourine playing, spontaneous jigging, and all sorts of other trouble. - Grassroots Music Festival 2008 MI Appearances: Ann Arbor - August 5th, Bay City - August 6th Michigan Irish Fest – Muskegon MI – September 12-13 Quick Links: Scythian Website

Nortec Collective Presents: Bostich + Fussible

Tijuana Sound Machine May 19, 2008 First of all, '' is a combination of the words 'norteño' and 'techno'. Norteño being music that originates from North , near the border with the US, and music that commonly uses the accordion and bajosexto. They also sometimes sample traditional Mexican music. Pepe Mogt is the mastermind behind the sound on this album, and credited with being the inventor of the genre. He wrote most of the songs on this album. Mogt combined with some other like minded musicians form the Nortec Collection and make some very interesting and fun music. Nortec Collective's second album, Tijuana Session, Volume 3 was nominated for two Latin Grammys in 2006 and received much critical acclaim. On this album, you will hear both English and Spanish, but it's sparse, as in the techno music tradition with repetition and random phrases. Track #1 The Clap is a playful track full of the accordion, leaning toward the Norteño. Track #5 Shake It Up has electronic vocals along with some fun accordion and brass sounds. It leans more toward the techno. There are a lot of fun tracks on here, so have fun. ~Renae O. Quick Links: Myspace page

DJ DOLORES

1 REAL May 15, 2008 DJ Dolores (aka Helder Aragao de Melo) goes back to his Brazilian roots on this album full of percussive backdrops, politically astute global grooves, quirky humor and an eclectic selection of lyrical topics. The title is a pun on 's currency, the real. And Dolores is concerned, like many of his musical countryfolk, with the accessibility of his sounds, their relationship to the vast economic inequalities of his potential domestic audience, and their connection with outer foreign http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 12 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

styles. Pleasingly, all of this conceptualising doesn't interfere with the dancing. Electronic beats and clatterclaps cut across compulsive , and call-response vocals retain a local (Brazilian) feel. This album will keep you dancing as well as thinking. Reviewed by LaRae WYCE Programmer Quick Links: DJ Dolores' MySpace

SERGIO MENDES

Encanto May 15, 2008 This is Sergio’s follow up to this highly acclaimed album, Timeless, in which he also collaborates with many different artists. He gives this album a more global feel by bringing in international artists like Zap Mama, Japanese pop-group Dreams Come True, and even some American stars like Natalie Cole and Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas who butchers a version of Burt Bacharach’s “The Look Of Love.” All in all, Sergio stays true to the Brazilian sound and what you get here are addictive melodies and sexy percussive beats that always stay nice on the ears. Much of the producing credit going to will.i.am who also guests on the album. Reviewed By: LaRae WYCE Programmer Quick Links: Video For "Encanto"

Rupa & The April Fishes

Extraordinary Rendition April 28, 2008 One of the best things about Extraordinary Rendition (Cumbancha) by -based Rupa and the April Fishes is that the music doesn't sound the least bit like a product of the USA. Unlike most homegrown world beat, this blend of gypsy swing, French cabaret, tango, and other styles comes across with an oddly organic charm that never seems forced. That's because American-born Rupa Marya brings the fruits of her upbringing in southern France, the US, and , welding her wanderlust to a chanteuse persona. Peak tracks like "Plus Que Moi" (#9) are like little slices of a rousing, rollicking theatrical revue from a bygone era, full of tempo changes, mood shifts, and ungodly clatter. The pistonic throttle of "Poder" (#3) puts the ghost of Brecht-Weill in overdrive. Rupa and her Fish wriggle into not just the cleft between cultures, but also the fissure between eras. Even slow cooker "La Pecheuse" (#6), which drifts into a dreamy middle section with falsetto vocal, feels as if it's been sprinkled with nostalgia. -- Bob Tarte Quick Links: Myspace page

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 13 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

THINK OF ONE

Camping April 7, 2008 Think of One is an Antwerp-based band and this album is their attempt at bringing western and Arabic music together. By adding Moroccan musicians to their crew, they have successfully blended western electronic, rap, and with Moroccan shaabi. These songs vary from upbeat rock (with Flemish lyrics)in #3 "Wereld NI", to the traditional Arabic track #5 "Gnawa Power" with its call and response vocals, to the French pop of #6 "Fantome". Other highlights are the quiet and jazzy #11 "Sharia Orabi", and the Moroccan rock of #14 "Alela Minena". Check out the Flemish rap on track 10 "Trap het af". Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth Quick Links: Think of One Website

Puerto Plata

Mujer de Cabaret April 7, 2008 If you struggle to find music to play, this is a great CD to grab. It's got an international flavor, but is quite accessible to the average listener. His music is categorized as 'son', but this album also has tinges of merengue, , and more. This album claims to "take you back to the golden age of Dominican guitar music." Jose Cobles is the man behind the name Puero Plata for this, his first, album. Puerto Plata also happens to be the name of the resort town that Cobles grew up in. On this CD, you can also hear two other famous Dominican Republic musicians, Edilio Paredes and Frank Mendez. Puerto Plata has been playing music for a long time, has seen a lot of personal and political hard times, and finally has released his first CD. The liner notes are very informative, if you'd like to learn more. ~Renae Quick Links: Puerto Plata's Website

Vinicius Cantuaria

Cymbals March 24, 2008 As usual Cantuaria puts together a very listenable album from start to finish. The genre of bossa nova and Latin lounge music is one that often fades into the background, but don’t be fooled! The allstar cast of musicians will lay down a decent groove and then go from there. Listen for the virtuosity of the album, but also the surprises and flourishes that Cantuaria likes to use to accent his productions. - Pete

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 14 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Various Artist

Spirits In The Material World March 17, 2008 The spirits are still with one of the most popular rock bands of the 1980’s, celebrating the “Police” reunion tour & being paid tribute to by some of the biggest names in reggae music. This CD showcases how easy it is to bring ’s stripped down rock sound & turn it into a fine Reggae release. Notable artists on this disc include Toots & the Maytals, The Wailing Souls, Inner Circle, & Gregory Isaacs’. Joan Osborne & Big Chief Monk Boudreaux artist not normally associated with the world of reggae also make fine contributions to this disc. This is a fun disc that will have you & your listeners reminiscing too the fun they had in the 80’s. - Gregg Saur

Toumast

Ishumar March 10, 2008 The kind of worldbeat that’s on display in Ishumar is one of trance-inducing complexity, where what’s important isn’t where the songs are going, but wherever they are currently. In general, middle-eastern music doesn’t treat melody as something absolute, but only as a guideline, a blueprint that the performer can feel free to modify on whim. This works well when paired with , a genre whose own philosophy isn’t that far removed from the middle-east’s. Ishumar is primarily a fusion of these two ideas, and the result works quite well – unpredictable and varied Arab vocals sit atop bluesy bass and guitar lines, lines that are just as likely to change at any moment as the vocals are. Ishumar isn’t perfect (the songs sometimes stretch on for too long), but it’s definitely worth listening to, if for nothing else than to witness how well two seemingly unrelated genres work together. – Adam Goran

VARIOUS ARTISTS

In the Name of Love: Africa Celebrates March 4, 2008 Bono's advocacy for the continent of Africa is well-known, so it isn't a surprise to see some of Africa's finest musicians pay tribute to his band, U2, in this innovative set of covers. Of course, album proceeds are going to charity. But the listener also receives much in the transaction: Benin's Angelique Kidjo fine rendition of "Mysterious Ways" (#1); 's Vieux Farka Toure marvelous take on "Bullet the Blue Sky" (#2); a hymn-like version of "Pride (In the Name of Love)" by the Soweto Gospel Choir of South Africa (#9); and the Sierra Leone Refugee All- Stars re-inventing "Seconds" (#10). And there's more where that came from. Each cut takes on some of the legacy of a different African country's musical culture, proving that the road from Dublin to Dakar isn't all that far to traverse. Here's a detailed road map. 03/08 MJVD W-Africa http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 15 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Quick Links: More information on the recording Shout! Factory store site Global Rhythm story on the making of the record

Adam Rudolph’s Moving Pictures

Dream Garden March 3, 2008 Adam Rudolph, originally from Chicago, is a hand drummer/ percussionist. Known as one of the early innovators of what is now called “world music”, he has been on the creative scene since 1979. He has been involved with various percussion groups, most notably, his percussion ensemble Vashti. He has also collaborated with legendary multi-instrumentalist Yusef Lateef and the late jazz trumpeter Don Cherry, among others. This disc starts out strong with the percussion-laden piece “Oshogbo”. The horn-driven melody of this piece is reminiscent of jazz great Don Ellis’ -centered pieces. Another accessible track is #3 “Twilight Lake”. This composition is almost other-worldly and mellow, as is track #8 (one of my favorites) “A Vision of Pure Delight”. Track#5 “Happiness Road”, with its various native instruments, has an African/jungle flavor. The track I favor most (besides the first track and track #8) is track #14 “Walking the Curve”. This piece is probably the most listenable with its lounge-like Latin feel. An interesting, but complicated piece is #4 “Scintilla”. This is more of a free-form piece with the thumb keeping the beat and the woodwinds and strings coming in short, quiet bursts. - Rebecca Behrens, WYCE Music Review Committee Quick Links: Adam's Homepage

Senor Flavio

Supersaund 2012 March 3, 2008 You may have heard Senor Flavio. He was the bassist and songwriter for the band Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, whose song “Matador” was featured in the movie Gross Point Blank. I don’t know what I expected when I first listened to this Argentine disc, but it certainly wasn’t the -influenced pop- rock it delivers. This is a fun album with lots of organ and guitar. Except for track #4, which has one line in English (for which it should be a no-play); the lyrics are in Spanish. Don’t let this keep you from checking it out. Highlights are tracks #2, #5, and #7. These are all upbeat tunes that just might find you doing a little dance. Track #9, entitled “Caumont” is somewhat mellow, but an outstanding track, nonetheless. Track #13 is another highlight as an instrumental. .- Rebecca Behrens, WYCE Music Review Committee

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 16 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

DENGUE FEVER

Venus On Earth February 7, 2008 Dengue Fever delivers a warm and toasty record with “Venus On Earth”. “Venus On Earth” does just what it should. Provide a smooth and relaxing soundtrack to the daily commute. There is something about Dengue Fever that reminds you of traveling. The sound reminded me of the music in the movie “Broken Flowers” and as it turns out, they made an appearance on the soundtrack. Dengue Fever is serious about the music, but has a little fun with the lyrical content also. With sentences like “It’s 4am, I check my e-mail” and “I’m at a party, in …(hey, where am I) man in the distance says “Echo Park” continues to sing “In Echo Park”, and “I take an Ambien”, you get the feeling they are just having fun. “Tiger Phone Card” is the standout track here. With playful lyrics about two lovers separated by 3000 miles of America, trying to stay together and day dreaming about what they will do when they see each other again. “Integration” has Ch’hom singing in her native Cambodian tongue, which she does on several tracks, sounding eerily similar to the lovely Indian singer . “Oceans of Venus” is a great instrumental that shows off the bands talent and detail to making great music to groove too. For all you Moped Army members out there, you can find a nice pic of a Puch Maxi in the CD tray.--Tim Warren for WYCE Quick Links: Dengue Fever myspace

Various Artists

Kalamazoo Community Rhythm Project January 20, 2008 Multiple Artists/ Kalamazoo Community Rhythm Project Vol. 1 An album not helping sway the stereotype of Kalamazoo as being a town I thought that, while at points dull and a little to wispy, there are some really solid tracks on this release. I did imagine the album to have a lot of spontaneous drum circle like jams and was a little disappointed to not find them but I think this release will fit in superbly when looking for an esoteric segue. I really enjoyed track four. Five is reminiscent of the African style brought to us in the 80’s. Number nine is a traditional sounding Native American number that I found to be a lot less pretentious than much of the album. Get into number ten, Zumbi, by the Skintones. I think that’s the best the compilation has to offer and it’s kind of a drag they only contributed one track. Eleven’s not half bad while I’m at it. Oh, track 14 is pretty alright too. Derrick.

Ramiro Musotto

Civilizacao & Barbarye January 16, 2008

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 17 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Ramiro Musotto : Civilizacao & Barbarye : Circular Moves Having worked with Brazilian music moguls Sergio Mendes and Caetano Veloso in the past, Argentinean-turned-Brazilian Ramiro Musotto paves his own way on one string alone. The string in question is the single string belonging to the berimbau, the instrument of choice for Musotto. Considered a defining recording for the instrument, one can liken this record to the berimbau the way Clara Rockmore’s Art of the Theremin can be likened to that ethereal, pioneering, electronic instrument. All tracks suitable for airplay. Reviewed by Trevor Edmonds : January 2008 Quick Links: Ramiro Musotto Online

ANTIBALAS

Security January 6, 2008 Brooklyn-based Antibalas … “bulletproof” in Spanish … ricochets from horn-heavy numbers like “Beaten Metal,” to the melancholy, almost funereal (B-3-laden) vibe of the final track, “AGE.” Their sparse yet clever, politically-charged lyrics amp up lengthier tracks like 2 and 3, “Filibuster X” and “Sanctuary,” 12 and 13 minutes, respectively, to prove these afrobeat aficionados pack heat with protest. Reviewed by Sara Cosgrove Quick Links: Antibalas Official Website Antibalas MySpace page

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Radio Noise Vol. 1 & 2 January 2, 2008 This radio only release highlights the best tracks from the record label that formed in 2006. “Asa Branca” by with is by far the standout track here. Another great track is “Rock the Rhythm” by Love Trio and U-Roy. “Asa Branca” has a kind of world beat to it, while “Rock the Rhythm” has a Techno meets Reggae mood. Wax Poetic has three tracks, while the Nublu Orchestra is also presented. Disc 1 is quite good and offers a good look into what Nublu can bring to the table as a record label. Disc 2 “The ” doesn’t fare so well. Most tracks are the generic “four on the floor” remixes. Nothing to imaginative or interesting happens here; mostly just the same beat that could spare having a few minutes cut of the end. --Tim Warren Quick Links: Nublu Nublu Myspace

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

Ilembe - Honoring Shaka Zulu

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 18 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

January 1, 2008 Even though the music on Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Ilembe – Honoring Shaka Zulu is completely a cappella, you’ll never miss the lack of accompanying instruments. The South African ensemble fills each song to the brim, sometimes with voice and just as often with judiciously placed silence. Less boisterous than some of the group’s other albums, and more emotionally direct than its collaborations with western musicians, Ilembe is exactly as involving as you choose it to be. Give them slight notice, and these repetitive songs seem to provide little more than a lovely background. But close listening reveals ample complexity, from the subtly shifting chanted sections of the English-language hymn "This is the Way We Do" to the harmonic richness of the choral singing, or the way Joseph Shabalala's solo parts on "Vela Nsizwa" and other tracks sometimes feels like a lead vocal and sometimes like ornamentation. The repetitive arrangements have an appealing organic quality, like the musical equivalent of waves washing on the beach. This adds a meditative almost hypnotic quality to the songs. While "Prince of Peace" and a couple of other tracks are obviously religious in nature, even the political commentary of "Let's Do It" has beautifully modulated spiritual energy.-- Bob Tarte

For over 1,000 world music CD reviews by Bob Tarte, visit BobTarte.com and click on 'Music Reviews.'

TABU LEY ROCHEREAU

The Voice of Lightness December 30, 2007 Beginning in the late 1950s, visionaries in the Congo began inventing a new kind of that would eventually sweep the continent. Combining Cuban rhythms, Congolese percussion, repeating figures, and gorgeous vocals, African rumba continues to influence African and Afro-Latin styles around globe. The Voice of Lightness, a career retrospective of legendary singer and bandleader Tabu Ley Rochereau, collects some of the most heavenly sounding music ever made. Opening track "Kelya" suggests some idealized tropical island, but even those delicate vocals are scant preparation for the fragility of the opening notes to "Christine". Also remarkable is Rocherau's vocal on "Mongali" a song told from a woman's point of view, which dispenses with the usual cascading electric guitars in favor of subdued acoustic accompaniment. Every track justifies its inclusion in this two-CD set, from the looping vocal line of "Savon Omo" that echoes the circular guitar lines, to the contrast between the simple, almost cabaret-style melody of "Pesa le Tout" and Dr. Nico's highly ornamental guitar. Rochereau and his band created some of the most sophisticated pop ever made, and if anything, it sounds better than ever now. -- Bob Tarte

For over 1,000 world music CD reviews by Bob Tarte, visit BobTarte.com and click on 'Music Reviews.'

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 19 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

YOUSSOU N'DOUR

Rokka Mi Rokka (Give and Take) December 30, 2007 I’ve often felt that Youssou N’dour was holding back on his albums by being miserly with the soaring, extended phrases that showcase his voice and bristle the neck hairs. I chalked up the apparent stinginess as catering to the different tastes of a Senegalese audience rather than pandering to America’s insistence on thrills. I also figured that Africans were hearing something in the short, choppy melodies he favored that flew right over my head. But I’m hearing it now on Rokka Mi Rokka (Give and Take), his quirkiest and most engaging album in years. "Bajjan" (The Father's Sister) is tough to resist with its herky- jerky meshing of computer rhythms and sabar drumming, caffeinated vocals, and unstoppable drive -- not to mention bits of vocal acrobatics. "Baay Faal" boasts highly dramatic singing, starting off in a folkie mode with xalam '' and local percussion before detouring north into the desert with a handclap beat and a string section borrowed from Egyptian film music. It's a great release, and the icing on the cake is "Wake Up (It's Africa Calling)" a duet with Neneh Cherry in the mold of their 1994 radio-friendly "Seven Seconds." -- Bob Tarte

For over 1,000 world music CD reviews by Bob Tarte, visit BobTarte.com and click on 'Music Reviews.'

CHEB I SABBAH

Devotion December 30, 2007 There's little on Devotion to connect it with Algerian-born producer Cheb i Sabbah's last release, a rhythmic blend of traditional North African songs. There is even less to suggest that this gorgeous meditation on the devotional is the work of one of Europe's most innovative DJs. In place of electronic beats and synthetic instruments, Devotion serves up Indian and North African percussion seamlessly blended with India's premier vocalists and instrumentalists. The genius is the distillation. Cheb i Sabbah conveys the scope and intensity of extended classical styles in fairly compact songs that nearly burst apart with drama. Opening track "Jai Bhavani" features stirring call and response singing, while "Kinna Sohna" sung by Master Saleem is a composition by the late, great Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan that pays fit tribute to this legend. "Qalanderi," is the first here to use full-frontal vocal loops and keyboards, but these meld nicely with North African instruments. If you've ever forgotten why you love music, this song will surely remind you. And if you can resist steadily increasing the volume, especially during the throttling coda, you're made of stronger stuff than I am. -- Bob Tarte

For over 1,000 world music CD reviews by Bob Tarte, visit BobTarte.com and click on 'Music Reviews.'

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 20 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

APHRODESIA

Lagos By Bus December 30, 2007 West coast American band Aphrodesia present their take on West African music with Lagos by Bus, featuring a blend of funky Afrobeat with the smoother style. Lara Maykovich and Maya Dorn sound larger than a vocal duo with their mostly chanted, occasionally interwoven singing, which wafts rich harmonies on the traditional Afro-Cuban hymn for healing "Ago Mado." Although their ecstatic voices open "Ochun Mi" massed horns and a stabbing electric piano straight out of Afrobeat founder Fela Kuti’s stylebook dominate the extended groove. “Holy Ghost Invasion” pits its English language invocation against fierce percussion, a theremin effect, and sonic collage in an energetic ditty that ends almost as soon as it begins. Best track honors go to instrumental "White Elephant," which beautifully modulates quiet tension and full tilt boogie, then erupts into Charlie Gurke's throttling baritone saxophone solo. -- Bob Tarte

For over 1,000 world music CD reviews by Bob Tarte, visit BobTarte.com and click on 'Music Reviews.'

JAI UTTAL

Dial M for Mantra December 3, 2007 Sanctity and the sacred undergo a succulent treatment of electronica as the passionate chants are put under the knife of remix artist Rara Avis. In Jai Uttal's "Dial M for Mantra" the raw and powerful sacred Sikh hymns are set to the ambient whisperings of modern zen dance to produce an ethereal backdrop to the soul. Rara Avis found Jai Uttal's classic kirtan chants oozing with rhythmic appeal when he broke them down to provide a modern trip-out into Indian mysticism. Featuring a compilation from Jai's album "Kirtan!" and collaborations such as "Music for Yoga and Other Joys," this 10 song album takes traditional chants into uncharted territory. - Daniel J. Graeber Quick Links: About me

DJ BITMAN

Latin Bitman November 30, 2007 Thievery Corporation with a dash of hot sauce describes this spicy new venture by the DJ formerly known as Bitman & Roban. Infusing electronica with latin grooves, this freshman effort by 's chill-maestro offers a look beyond the first radio single "Shine." Taking a multi-lingual approach to hooks, the songs as a unit stands alone. While crossing genre's is http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 21 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

admirable and easy to appreciate, most of this album relies too heavily on a loop that makes one song indistinguishable from the next. A good backdrop, but no stand-outs on this lounge act. - Daniel J. Graeber Quick Links: About me

LENI STERN

Africa November 4, 2007 Another artist goes to Africa and gets changed personally and musically. This time, it is jazz vocalist/guitarist Leni Stern. She spent two years fusing African and Western musical styles together and the result is something new -- yet with the strong flavor of African rhythms. Highlights include "Simbo" (#4), "Aman Iman" (#7), "Dakkan" (#11) and the stirring "Childsoldier" (#12). Another interesting cut is "Ousmane" (#8), on which the late Michael Brecker does a serious solo (he died soon after recording this; he's also on #6). Stern so impressed her African musical collaborators that they gave her a special name: "Moussa Guitar Foe." 11/07 MJVD W-Africa Quick Links: More on the making of "Africa" Leni's homepage

KATCHAFIRE

Say What You're Thinking September 24, 2007 New Zealand based KATCHAFIRE’s 3rd album is a can’t miss mixture of jazz, pop, and rock informed reggae. Every track issues a calming vibe, the kind that make you feel that if this were the soundtrack to your life, everything would be ok. The solid grooves make it near impossible to not bob your head in time. With 5 different members of the band sharing lead vocal duties, the each song has a different feel from the previous one. The highlight tracks from the album are #2 “Now Girl”, #6 “This World”, and #10 “Meant To Be”. Ben Cook, WYCE Intern

Los Mono

Somos Los Que Estamos September 24, 2007 A Chilean Super-group, a collaborative among Cristian Moraga aka Funky C (founder of “Los Tetas”), Sebastian Silva (CHC), Gonzalo Gonzalez (“Los Prisoneros,” “Los Tres,” “Los Bunkers”), Vicente Sanfuentes (“The Hermanos Brothers,” and “Original Hamster”) and Nea (singer from CHC and Yaia). The album has a moral message throughout, promoting creativity, originality, positivism amd self-responsibility

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 22 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

AMIINA

Kurr September 24, 2007 This is the debut album from Sólrún, María, Edda and Hildur, four Icelandic women in their mid twenties. Soothing, trance- like sounds from Icelandic group Amiina, is a stellar debut. Compared with Sigur Ros, it’s no wonder why Amiina are receiving rave reviews. Not many vocals are present, with the exception of a few on various tracks, but it’s the music that really creates such a pristine and beautiful album. Check out tracks 1 “Sogg”, track 3 “Glamur”, track 4 “Seoul”, and track 9 “Saga”. – Lane Zoerhof

MANU CHAO

LA RADIOLINA September 17, 2007 As the enfant terrible of music, Manu Chao once again creates a frenzy by mixing rock, punk, salsa, French pop ... and by bouncing from Spanish to French to English. Chao bleeds enthusiasm and creativity and, in his first studio album in six years, he foregoes traditional (choruses, etc.) in favor of guitar scribble. Chao's anti-establishment, anarchist values are present in La Radiolina's 16 tracks (plus five bonus tracks). Track 3, "Politik Kills," is particularly potent, and track 7, "Tristeza Maleza" is a defiant message regarding "senor presidente." But this album is far from dismal. Track 3, the peppy "Rainin in Paradize," and track 7, the -inspired "Me Llaman Calle," are two danceable highlights. The accessability and worldwide popularity of Chao's work proves that no one blends protest and party quite like he does. - Sara Cosgrove

EASTERN BLOK

Folk Tales September 17, 2007 The music is a wonderful collective of East European melody, along with out of Chicago.I enjoyed each track. It is a bit out there for some, but I would hope you give it a chance to grow on you. There is clearly melodic structure that will aid you in memories of years gone by. -Tim Pieri

MANU CHAO

La Radiolina September 13, 2007 As the enfant terrible of Latin alternative music, Manu Chao once again creates a frenzy by mixing rock, punk, salsa, French pop ... and by bouncing from Spanish to French to English. Chao bleeds enthusiasm and creativity and, in his first studio album in

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 23 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

six years, he foregoes traditional song structure (choruses, etc.) in favor of guitar scribble. Chao's anti-establishment, anarchist values are present in La Radiolina's 16 tracks (plus five bonus tracks). Track 3, "Politik Kills," is particularly potent, and track 7, "Tristeza Maleza" is a defiant message regarding "señor Presidente." But this album is far from dismal. Track 3, the peppy "Rainin in Paradize," and track 7, the flamenco-inspired "Me Llaman Calle," are two danceable highlights. The accessability and worldwide popularity of Chao's work proves that no one blends protest and party quite like he does. Reviewed by Sara Cosgrove Quick Links: Manu Chao's Official Website Manu Chao's MySpace

DABY TOURE

Stereo Spirit September 10, 2007 Toure is from Mauritania in Africa originally but was raised by Parisian musicians. "Stereo Spirit" is a gentle set in which he plays all of the instruments and his voice, at times, is a bit reminiscent of early Cat Stevens. Only one song is uptempo ("Bibou") and a few are are midtempo ("Setal," "Banta" and "Yakaare"). The rest are softly reflective. His main theme is peaceful relationships, both with humankind and the environment. - MJVD

ANOUSHKA SHANKAR and

Breathing Underwater September 10, 2007 Shankar and Kale, both Indians raised in the US, have created a tasteful fusion among traditional and modern, Indian and Western cultures. Kale is the founding member of Tabla Beat Science. Anoushka Shankar, successful solo artist, is also Ravi’s daughter and sister. Guest singers not only include family members Ravi and Norah, but also , and Salim Merchant, Bollywood soundtrack composer. –Pete

TARAF DE HAIDOUKS

Maskarada September 10, 2007 In the early 20th century, many composers drew their inspiration from , often borrowing from Gypsy music to create theur vision o f an exotic, exuberant Orient. Things have now been turned around, as the Taraf have taken hold of works by Khachaturian, Bartok, de Falla, Albeniz, Ketelbey and more, and have re-gypsified them.

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 24 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

CECILE CORBEL

Songbook 1 September 10, 2007 This is a good crossover album for fans of Celtic music, and those who like Tori, Sarah McLachlan, Loreena McKennit, Enya, Sinead, and Kate Bush. Corbel was born in Britany, France, and spent her early years all over Europe with her parents, a couple of traveling puppeteers. She picked up the guitar as a teen, then discovered the . It all makes sense, trust me. The most colorful description I read is “a redhead fairy, just out of a Broceliande tale.” -Pete

KONONO NO. 1

Live at Couleur Café September 10, 2007 Konono No1’s Congotronics album introduced the world to electro-traditional mixtures which are being concocted in the suburbs of Kinshasa, Congo. This set focuses on a live performance recorded at the Couleur Café in Belgium recorded by Vincent Kenis by the original group of Bazombo musicians, dancers, and singers from the Democratic Repu blic of Congo

TOOTS & THE MAYTALS

Light Your Light August 27, 2007 Toots Hibbert is back! Derek Trucks on track 1, Bonnie Raitt on 2. Track 8 is a ray charles Cover, 3 is an Otis Redding cover; the rest are originals although some remakes from the 60’s version of the band. Grammy-winning Hibbert is also a member of the Rock n Roll hall of fame.

SUPHALA

Blueprint August 21, 2007 At once electric and accoustic, this release from tabla player Suphala (the first female recording artist in Afganistan since the fall of the Taliban) is an intricate and beautiful kaleidoscope of sound. Collaborating with a roster of talented musicians (such as Vernon Reid and Edie Brickell), Suphala not only wrote virtually all of the material, she also arranged, produced, and engineered it. A talented gal indeed! I think most (if not all) of the programmers here at WYCE will find a cut or three they enjoy enough to fit into their shows. Enjoy! –Carol

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 25 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

SUPHALA

Blueprint August 17, 2007 At once electric and accoustic, this release from tabla player Suphala (the first female recording artist in Afganistan since the fall of the Taliban) is an intricate and beautiful kaleidoscope of sound. Collaborating with a roster of talented musicians (such as Vernon Reid and Edie Brickell), Suphala not only wrote virtually all of the material, she also arranged, produced, and engineered it. A talented gal indeed! I think most (if not all) of the programmers here at WYCE will find a cut or three they enjoy enough to fit into their shows. Enjoy! -Carol- PS All clean Quick Links: Suphala's Official Page

TINKERS TEA

The Mummer's August 13, 2007 Some smokin’ good dance tunes on this one. Ah yes, I can almost hear the pitter patter of pretty little Celtic dancing feet as they go prancing into the sunset together. Seriously, whats laid down here is some rock solid tracks by Terry Lancaster playing guitar, fiddle, plectrum banjo, , and bodhran with a roaring train of an instrumentalist Jessie Macintosh playing guitar, mandolin, highland and small pipes, mountain dulcimer, all sorts of harmonicas and a mandola. You may be asking: What the hell is a tinker? Well, simply put, the tinker's are the gypsies of and the British Isles. They haven't been as popular in the New World but they still do exist here and there (try Canada). Anyway, a lot can be said about the Tinker's and their lifestyle/ethics but why go into it. Let's just say that they are a small marginalized population that are never really on anyone's guest list and are generally considered a troubled group of individuals that don't fit into a progressive social system. (Excerpt from website www.tinkerstea.blogspot.com) Teresa Jeanne Quick Links: Tinker's Tea Website

B-SIDE PLAYERS

Fire in the Youth August 13, 2007 The sophomore release by septet B-Side Players blends Latin, funk, soul and reggae, with emphasis on the Latin. Taquerito, the album's ninth track is uptempo and samba-esque, while Nuestras Demandas is a smooth, reggae number with lyrics to inspire a more global perspective. Warrior Culture offers a laid back groove, while openly addressing the issue human rights. The album brings thought provoking lyrics and horn blasts together while maintaining a consistency that is anything but http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 26 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

schizophrenic. Fire in the Youth is a complex blend of words and sounds, yet an amazingly easy listen. – Sarah Minnick

COREY HARRIS

Zion Crossroads August 9, 2007 Corey Harris has seldom let himself be conscripted to straight blues even while recording for such notable blues labels as Alligator. Instead, he’s freely incorporated elements of funk, R & B, reggae and hip-hop into his work. This disc, his first on the Telarc label, finds him leaving the blues completely on the shelf in favor of a percolating mix of reggae and ska. True to his roots as a teacher, Harris weaves tales about role of the 10 Commandments in Ethiopian culture, "Ark of the Covenant", the steep price paid by those who supply us with bargains on the clothing we wear, "Sweatshop", the joy and promise of a new day, "In the Morning", the wasted death of Guyanese historian "Walter Rodney" and the need for people of color to unite to improve their positions rather than simply lamenting how they got there, "Heathen Rage". While the subject matter is often serious, Harris avoids taking on the air of mirthless lecturer. Buoyed by the sinuous, horn-powered, reggae grooves the tracks will hook you and keep you on board for the tales that he weaves. This disc will fit nicely alongside the works of such socially conscious reggae bands as Steel Pulse but with the more accessible feel of Third World or any of the Marley clan. Smitty Quick Links: Telarc Myspace Page

SENTI TOY

How Many Stories Do You Read On My Face? August 6, 2007 Excellent mixture of many genres from a woman (full name is Sentienla Toy Threadgill) born in Nagaland, a tribal state in northeastern India. Senti sings about her homeland in a number of songs on this disc, which is described as an "unclassifiable blend of jazz, traditional folk and blues-tinged pop" (i.e., a "WYCE natural"). Half of the numbers relate to Nagaland (#2, #3, #4, #9 and #10), the best of which is "More Than the Fingers" (#3), a song about "learned" anthropologists speak in a demeaning manner about the intelligence of her people. Other gems on this disc (and there isn't a clinker anywhere) are the title track and "You Got Breath" (#7). Senti is currently working on a doctoral degree in ethnomusicology at New York University. I think she'll pass. -MJVD

SOMI

Red Soil In My Eyes August 6, 2007

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 27 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

She was born in Illinois and did most of her growing up in America, but the singer who calls herself Somi -- that's short for L. Kabasomi Kakoma -- is the daughter of Rwandan and Ugandan parents, also spent time living in Africa and, due in no small part to the extremes of that experience, has created a seamless merger of cultures, sounds and emotions with this richly textured recording. Red Soil in My Eyes is all elegance and awe, and attempting to reduce Somi's pan-globalism and command of her artistic environment to a single genre or purpose would be a fruitless endeavor. She skates easily between worlds, touching on both smooth and raucous neo-soul, nuanced jazz expression and more than a dollop of East African tradition until something else all together emerges. - AMG

BOB MARLEY

Roots, Rock, Remixed July 30, 2007 Reggae legend Bob Marley is being reintroduced to sound systems worldwide. Roots, Rock, Remixed balances the fine line of being respectful to the originals. Blessed by the Marley estate.

MARIPOSA

Eros July 23, 2007 Mariposa, aka Stephanie Naifeh, is a classically trained singer who once ran away to join the circus ... and she took her band, the Underthings, with her. She's now a trapeze artist/solo artist, and her impressive vocal range caught the attention of Danny Elfman, who included her in the music scores for "Men and Black," "Spiderman" and "Sleepy Hollow." In addition to , Naifeh also has a distinct flair for world beat and cabaret. The album's first track, "Such A Love," sounds like an unreleased track from "Moulin Rouge." Track 2 is her rendition of "Rock Me Amadeus," complete with hip, European chic sounds you might hear while shopping at Zara or dancing at the local discotheque. Then there are songs like track 5, "Ramo Ramo," that embrace Latin . For the album’s final track she chose Neil Young's "Love is a Rose," which doesn't really seem to fit with the rest of the album, though I doubt a woman with glitter in her hair spends much time worrying about fitting in with the crowd. – Sara Cosgrove

CULVER CITY DUB COLLECTIVE

Dos July 23, 2007 Dos, the debut full-length album from the Culver City Dub Collective, unites an all-star cast in a captivating blend of Jamaican roots reggae, Afro-Cuban rhythms and West Coast

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 28 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

bossa beats. It's an intoxicating breeze that rattles the brain in all the right places, a simmering soundtrack to a thousand road trips and hazy summer afternoons. Released by - based Everloving Records (Cornelius, Metric, Inara George), Dos represents a truly "collective" approach to music making. The album features stunning appearances from such luminaries as , , , Studio One vocalist Winston Jarret, and singer Jay Malinowski. Despite the group's amorphous nature, the Culver City Dub Collective (CCDC) is ultimately assembled, produced and creatively grounded by two individuals: drummer/songwriter Adam Topol and guitarist/engineer Franchot Tone.

KARLEX

Ghetto Fabulous July 17, 2007 An world album that combines elements of R&B, reggae, blues, rock, and funk, Karlex grooves a great sound. He has fun with this record and it shows. Check out tracks 1 “I’ve Got News For You…”, track 4 “Ghetto Fabulous”, track 5 “Farewell Angel”, track 10 “Kreol Woman”, and track 12 “Let’s Harmonize (A Bom Bom)”. by Lane Zoerhof

GOGOL BORDELLO

SUPER TARANTA July 17, 2007 If you take the punk sounds of the Pogues & mixed them with the Russian sounds of the Red Elvises you have a good description of Gogol Bordello. Gogol Bordello mixes Gypsy & Eastern European sounds with punk, & even may I say metal to create their unique sound. Lead vocalist Eugene Hultz a Ukrainian doesn’t sing the 14 tracks he shouts them with a fury. You mix his vocals with a Russian Fiddler, Jewish Guitarist & Slavic accordionist and you know this is not your traditional rock album. It is also not for the faint of heart. The biggest downfall on this CD is the inability to make out many of the lyrics as shouted by Eugene Hultz; I would have loved to have him slow it down at times so I could understand all his lyrics. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur Language Concerns: # 6 Goddamn #11, 12 &13 F-bomb.

DOBET GNAHORE

Na Afriki July 17, 2007 One of contemporary African music's most exciting new talents, thrilling stage presence, powerful vox...touted as the next, up and coming Angelique Kidjo!

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 29 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

SINEAD O’CONNOR

Theology July 3, 2007 Sinead O’Connor’s, Theology offers both acoustic versions, Disc 1 (Dublin Sessions), and versions with pop arrangements, Disc 2 (London Sessions). “Something Beautiful” on Disc 2 is a must listen. “Whomsoever Dwells” on Disc 2 is good although it does have an excessive 90 second intro. The acoustic versions give you a more intimate connection with O’Connor, and “Dark I Am Yet Lovely” and “Whomsoever Dwells” sound better acoustically because of this. You don’t lose a lot, if anything, with O’Connor by going from electronic to acoustic, and you can’t say that about a lot of artists. A great album no matter what version you go with. – Jerrod Willea (Intern)

R CARLOS NAKAI with UDI BAR-DAVID

Voyagers May 28, 2007 Multi-grammy nominee Nakai melds the haunting sounds of the Native American flute with the soulful expressiveness of the of Udi-Bar-David. Native American, Jewish, Arabic, and Turkish melodies are presented in diverse arrangements unified by two eclectic and iconoclastic artists who personify their respective peoples. Multi-Grammy nominee Will Clipman adds subtle percussion.

Stephen Marley

Mind Control May 24, 2007 From the sinewy first blast of the title track to the fade out some 11 tracks later, one thought is inescapable: why in the world did Stephen Marley wait so long to cut this fabulous disc? While comparisons to his famous dad are inevitable because of the uncanny vocal resemblance Stephen has also inherited his father’s social conscience which he uses to deal with the corrupting power of government on the title track and with antiquated laws that put too many young people in jail on "Iron Bars". He also advocates sending politicians for a hike on "Chase Dem". Elsewhere as on "Fed Up" and "Lonely Avenue" he deals with the heartbreak of broken relationships. As is par for the course with the close knit Marley clan, he pulls in his sister Cedelia Marley and brother Julian Marley on background vocals on a number of tracks. He also features younger brother Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley on lead vocals on a couple of tracks including the toast heavy "Traffic Jam" which hits the spot in Jamaican dance halls but will be a bit of a stretch for those whose Reggae tastes don’t stretch much beyond his father’s Legend collection. Also featured are various guest artists including Ben Harper on "Inna Di Red". Overall, a terrific addition to the Marley legacy. Smitty

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 30 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

BALKAN BEATBOX

NuMed May 14, 2007 Balkan Beat Box is the world’s music. They are Confusing and irreverent; taking influence from Gypsy, Jewish, and Middle Eastern traditions, dancehall, , dub, as well as American funk and hip-hop. This results in an explosion of creatively contrived hooks and beats. I have to see this band. Unfortunately look out for track 2, ‘Hermetico’ which is not entirely FCC friendly. Terrific, and radio friendly tracks, include the gypsy style instrumentals ‘BBBeat,’ and ‘Balcasio.’ ‘Pachima’ and ‘Joro Boro’ are amazing collages of genre. Another, more dub oriented, standout is number eight, ‘Quand est-ce qu’on arrive?’ MC Tomer Yosef has made his way into the BBB coalition and is highlighted on ‘Digital Monkey’ and ‘Mexico City.’ George Clinton, meet your Jewish cousins. – Derrick Mund

CHARLOTTE GAINSBOURG

5:55 May 14, 2007 Appealing to both French and American audiences is no easy task. But Charlotte Gainsbourg, Serge Gainsbourg's daughter, just might pull it off with her second album, 5:55 — the first album was Charlotte Forever, which was released when she was 13. Now Gainsbourg is 35, and she’s achieved the majority of her success as an actress … both in French films like Happily Ever After, and English language films like 21 Grams. She more recently starred in director Michael Gondry's The Science of Sleep. She’s re-entered the music scene, and her sexy voice and obsessive lyrics, particularly on track 6, "Beauty Mark," and track 10, "Everything I Cannot See," would surely make Serge proud. -Sara Cosgrove

EMILIE SIMON

The Flower Book May 14, 2007 From pop to electronica and English to French lyrics, Simon has experienced wide success in Europe and with this release sets her sights on the . Her background is avant, classical, jazz, string arrangements and soundtrack composition. The Flower Book is basically a compilation of the best of her first three European releases. As can be assumed, the album is not the most cohesive but has a variety of tempos and styles good for mixing it up track-by-track on the radio. The Stooges cover (2) reminds me of the Breeders or maybe Magnapop. Other sounds smell like Bjork, Kate Bush, and . – Pete

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 31 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

CORNELIUS

Sensuous May 14, 2007 Tough to spell but easy to hear (a.k.a. Keigo Oyamada), this guy is a genius--or maybe he just goes to the right nightclubs and has a good taste in gadgets. No, this release shows discipline, with each track building upon itself to smartly entertain. The loops contain significant presence of acoustic and electric guitars as well as the human voice. His third release. – Pete

JOE REILLY

Planting Gardens May 7, 2007 Local Joe Reilly, pronounced "Ry-Lee," a Kalamazoo native, now lives and works in Ann Arbor. The musical styles on his CD include folk, blues, hip-hop, gospel, world, and Native American. Many of his songs speak of his home state of Michigan or of Chicago, where he has also lived. His music is also influenced by his spiritual and activist callings. Joe has a degree in Environmental Justice from U of M. He has sung with a Native American drum group in Ann Arbor. He has studied and practiced Buddhism and is a follower of Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Buddhist Monk, teacher and peace activist, who appears on Joe's CD three times with spoken word segments. Seth Bernard appears on and co-produced this CD. Joe's band on this CD is "The Faith Project." He is also part of a group called the "Long Hairz Collective." Many gems on this CD with a variety of styles to please most everyone. My personnel favorites include: "The River", "State of the Possible" and "Infinite Hearts." Several pieces would be appropriate for "In The Spirit." "Tee" VanHammen

JEF STOTT

SoukSonik May 7, 2007 Part of the Six Degrees Emerging Artists in which the label is releasing new artists to the public over the internet (digital- only). Stott is a member of LUMIN and also STELLAMARA, and is now producing. He has worked with artists from Morocco, , Egypy, Iran and Turkey, and is accomplished in several traditional percussion instruments of the Middle East. “Souk” refers to a marketplace in Arabic. -P

ZAMAN 8 AND HAFEZ MODIR

Suryghati ep May 7, 2007 Part of the Six Degrees Emerging Artists in which the label is

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 32 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

releasing new artists to the public over the internet (digital- only). A San Francisco-based world-electronic duo in collaboration with Iranian-American sax master Madir. Draws on Persian and Indian classical traditions, , African rhythms and modern dance grooves. – P

TAFFETAS

Fanta May 7, 2007 Kora and guitar playing vs lyrical exploration. Vocalist Francesca Cassio’s wordless improvisations mixed with African instrumentation. – P

INDIALUCIA

INDIALUCIA May 7, 2007 A unique blend of Flamenco with classical , flamenco chords with sitar and Indian vocals. –P

BEBEL GILBERTO

Momento May 7, 2007 Bebel’s third release of graceful downtempo electronica and soothing vocals, while writing or cowriting most of the songs. Cacada, Tranquilo and Night & Day are covers. Recorded in London, Rio, and New York. “Momento” was a spontaneous creation by Gilberto and her longtime guitarist Masa Shimizu. –P

VARIOUS

PUTUMAYO WORLD PARTY April 30, 2007 Fun infectious & uplifting songs from all over the globe. Combining Zouk, Salsa, Reggae & more this disc is truly a musical celebration. This is a feel good disc that will put a smile on your listeners face & make you the ultimate king of the party. To make things even better, proceeds from this disc will be donated to Action Against Hunger, an international relief & development organization committed to saving the lives of malnourished children and families all over the world. So Party hard & know you are also being a loving humanitarian at the same time. - Gregg Saur

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 33 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

THE MOTHERS

Township Sessions April 30, 2007 The Philani Nutrition Project is a community-based nonprofit healthcare and nutrition program for kids based in township and squatter communities in a poor region of Cape Town, S. Africa. The Philani Mothers formed a choir and put out a benefit CD 12 years later in 1998, a collection of acapella songs. The master tapes have formed the backbone for this album, a Various Artists project formed to create awareness and funds for the Philani, while extolling the values of care, welfare, and optimism. –P

IBRAHIM FERRER

Mi Sueno April 30, 2007 The most famous of the revival, Ferrer puts out his final album. He passed away at the age of 78, three weeks before the final recording was due. On his death bed, he dictated a letter asking that this, his “dream recording,” be completed. Fortunately the high-quality demo tapes were produced. -P

Various

20 WAYS TO FLOAT THROUGH WALLS April 23, 2007 This is world beat at its best! This disc takes you way out from the United States. If your looking to go somewhere else for cheap this one will do it for you. It truly feels like a train ride around the world, like passing through a foreign countryside on your way to no where. At times it has a techno sound, but at times it's more jazzy, or bluesy so you get your fix no matter what genre you prefer. Enjoy! – MK

CHAMBAO

Pokito a Poko April 16, 2007 ¡§cham-BAHoh -- poke-EAT-oh ah POKE-oh¡¨ or¡K ¡§Little By Little¡¨ Malaga, Spain-based group that became synonymous with trailblazing the ¡§flamenco chill¡¨ sound. Fronted by female vocalist La Mari. The last release went platinum in Spain in 2002. Track 9 is a duet with famed Miguel Campello, the fiery lead vocalist of Flamenco fusion band ¡§El Bicho¡¨ (don¡t say that on-air ƒº). Aside from her successful career in music, La Mari is a breast cancer survivor who recently co-wrote a book with her sister Aurora, entitled Enamora De La Vida, Aunque A Veces Duela, translated: In Love With Life, Although at Times it may Hurt. -Drover

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 34 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

ANGELIQUE KIDJO

Djin Djin April 11, 2007 The four-time Grammy nominated singer from Benin, Africa has collaborated with a few well know pop stars in Djin Djin. Despite a few duets with Alicia Keys, Carlos Santana, Josh Groban, Joss Stone, , and Ziggy Marley this album prevails with true worldly vibe. How could someone fluent in four languages not come across worldly? I think the release of Djin Djin is the determining album that says Kidjo has "made it," where ever "it" may be. -MK

The Prodigals

Go On April 4, 2007 The Prodigal boys have returned and with them they have brought their high power interpretation of the traditional Irish music. Featuring Lamments, , Reels and . Gregory Grene leads The Prodigals on vocals and accordion (known as the button box in the auld country) along with Andrew Harkin, bass, Ray Kelly, vocals and guitar and Brian Tracy, drums, percussion and backing vocals. The opening song for the 12 song CD is a reworking of the cowboy song of the 50's Ghost Riders In The Sky, too Spancil Hill, a story of the Irish lad so far from home that he can only return through his dreams. With 2 instrumentals, The Open and Boru's March, Go On, has the contemporary sound behind the rhythmic boran beat. Are they rock, maybe so but not in the sense of U2, Cranberries and the such. The Prodigals pays homage to their native culture as only their name can imply. Slip Quick Links: The Prodigals official web site

NIBS VANDERSPUY

Beautiful Feet April 2, 2007 Global nomad, Nibs is a prolific and imaginative creative voice. Now based in London, Nibs is South African born. He does a cover of (13). This is his international debut and 3rd solo album. From British folk to a dash of India and Reggae.

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 35 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

VARIOUS

Backspin – Six Degrees 10 Anniv. Project April 2, 2007 All crazy-ass covers from crazy-ass bands. Six Degrees motto is “Everything is closer than you think.”

ZEB

Stop the Earth… April 2, 2007 Eastern dub, bossa, funk, afrobeat and more. Zeb was born of Italian and Gypsy parents.

The Prodigals

Dreaming In Hell's Kitchen March 23, 2007 With St. Patrick’s day come and gone when I reviewed this album, I was please to hear the familiar sounds one would want to hear during this specific weekend each year. However, this album offers only reason for a listen once a year. The Prodigals play good Irish/Celtic folk/rock music, but there’s not much feeling to the songs as the performers seem to drag through the music. However, I would advise to check out tracks 3 “The Morning After”, track 6 “Jackie Hall”, and track 11 “One True Cause”. Lane Zoerhof

The Prodigals

Dreaming In Hell's Kitchen March 23, 2007 With St. Patrick’s day come and gone when I reviewed this album, I was please to hear the familiar sounds one would want to hear during this specific weekend each year. However, this album offers only reason for a listen once a year. The Prodigals play good Irish/Celtic folk/rock music, but there’s not much feeling to the songs as the performers seem to drag through the music. However, I would advise to check out tracks 3 “The Morning After”, track 6 “Jackie Hall”, and track 11 “One True Cause”. Lane Zoerhof

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 36 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Tony Tuff

Say Something March 23, 2007 Tony tuff is a reggae and dancehall veteran, born in Kingston, Jamaica composing roots reggae with groups such as the African Brothers alongside with reggae legend Sugar Minot. This album has a great bouncy dub and calypso rhythms, filled with soulful lyrics about life and population. - Mitch FCC: Track #1 Track #7 Tracks of Interest: Track #3, #4, #8, #12

GIPSY KINGS

Pasajero March 19, 2007 This is an incredibly fresh album for the 20-year-old band the Gipsy Kings. Since the release of the hit “Bandoleo” in 1987, the guys have sold about 14 million albums worldwide. For this recording, they brought in a new sax, trumpet, , accordion, dudoc, bass, and extra percussion, in addition to eight core members. -Pete

TINARIWEN

Aman Iman March 13, 2007 This is one of the only produced music groups from the Toureg Desert, a region of nomads in Mali. Why and how did these guys get together and think of making a band? Who knows. Very interesting and unique. Robert Plant and have shown their approval of these fellas work. Described as Hypnotic . –Pete

Turbulence

Do Good March 12, 2007 Turbulence (born Sheldon Campbell) is an up and coming artist from Jamaica. Featuring sounds ranging from seventies style Roots Reggae to Dub to Dancehall, 2Step, and Trip-Hop, Do Good is full of energy and colorful vibrancy. While his influenced by artists of the past, Do Good is a Reggae album for the 21st century and, in places, is equipped with swirling sound effects, crisp, clear vocals, and modern electronic instruments. Drug references on 6 & 14 Seth Allgaier

ANDY PALACIO AND THE GARIFUNA COLLECTIVE

Watina March 5, 2007 These soul stirring and vibrant grooves from the Garifuna

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 37 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

community of unite the music legacies of Africa and the Caribbean to create a powerful saga of exhile, longing, hope and celebration. Watina is infused with contemporary influences, yet firmly rooted in the rich musical heritage of this culture. – P.R.

YOUNG DUBLINERS

With All Due Respect: The Irish Sessions February 19, 2007 This is exactly what you’d expect of a Young Dubliners CD made up entirely of traditional Irish songs: upbeat, feisty and rockin’. These covers kind of strike the middle ground on the continuum between way-traditional and ultra-rockish. This version of “Rocky Road to Dublin” is a good example — it’s peppier than /Stones version, but not as hard-edged as ’ take on the classic. ::arthur longrapids::

OJOS DE BRUJO

Techarí February 19, 2007 In America, we have the , Verve and Savoy remix projects. In , it’s Fiamma Fumana. In Japan, it’s the Yoshida Brothers. Everywhere these days we’re seeing more blends of traditional national/cultural music with modern dance/hip- hop/R&B sensibilities. Such is the case with Ojos de Brujo (trans: Wizard Eyes). These young Spaniards combine traditional flamenco and gypsy roots with modern sounds to create a fun, upbeat, danceable mix. Techarí (“free” in the Gypsy language Caló) is their third release, and their first major attempt to enter the North American music world. So, what is Techarí? According to the band, it’s “nomadic, mixed-blooded music racing through the streets of the worlds’ cities like a pack of mad idiots, communicating, creating and celebrating”. It combines the aforementioned flamenco and hip-hop, but also includes Indian folk musicians, sounds, Senegalese rap and beatbox. Ojos de Brujo sing fun-sounding songs, but they’re not fluff by any means. This is a group of people seriously dedicated to fighting off global homogenization and to preserving the identity of Spain’s many cultural minorities. Too bad that’s lost on non-Spanish speakers! ::arthur longrapids::

VUSI MAHLASELA

Guiding Star February 19, 2007 Vusi grew up in South Africa in Mamelodi, a cradle of creativity. He is self-taught on a handmade guitar and an instrument made of tin cans and fishing line. His songs address issues of political significance especially peace, and was asked to play at the inauguration of Nelson Mandella. His first album was recorded in

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 38 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

1991 and is recognized as a South African classic. Guiding Star is a definitive collection that spans his recordings over the last eleven years. -P

Fat Freddy's Drop

Based On A True story February 14, 2007 Fat Freddy's Drop is just that. Fat in it's bottom sound, (maybe that comes from the fact that all 7 band mates hail from down under,New Zeeland) and Phat as in the street lingo of America (the best). It's varied styles take's your ear from techno soul funk to a bit of reggae as each track lays out the premise of what is behind "Based On A True Story", Fat Freddy's Drop, first independent CD release. Is it true or not? I'm not sure but the journey was worth the listen. Slip Quick Links: Fat Freddy's Drop Official Web Site

VIEUX FARKA TOURE

Vieux Farka Toure February 5, 2007 pronounced like view From Mali-Vieux Farka Toure is the son of the late Ali Farka Toure, Ali kept Vieux from going into the music business, insisting that he join the military, So he secretly practiced until he was old enough to enroll in the National Arts Institute.Now he emerges on the music scene as a guitar virtuoso, continuing in the “” tradition after his father. Toumani Diabate plays kora on this and Issa Bambaa appears on vocals. – Teresa

Pistolera

Siempre Hay Salida (There's Always A Way Out) February 1, 2007 The Pistolera (female gunslinger) comes out firing from all barrels on their 10 song debute CD "Siempre Hay Salida". Lead by San Diego born composer, lead singer and guitarist Sandra Lilia Velasquez. She weaves it's indie-pop sound through the traditional latin music styles with the aid of Maria Elena blasting out the melodies on the accordian to the powerful back beat of cousin, Ani Cordero on drums, percussion and background vocals and Inca B. Satz on bass. Slip Quick Links: Pistolera Web Site

OZOMATLI

Don’t Mess with the Dragon January 30, 2007

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 39 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

These guys couldn’t have come out with a better followup release to their 2004 studio release Street Signs. Don’t Mess… is a mature, easy-to-hear release that will get anyone dancing on the first listen. Upon further examination however, complications unfold evidencing the groups creativity. Some hip-hop and show the niche they are dropping into-- -they’ve been touring with some premier jazz///world groups and the end result in the diversity of this release draws all of these genres together—a good mix but still strongly Latin. See also CUT CHEMIST in the WYCE library, an integral founding member of this group, twelve years ago. -Pete

SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR

African Spirit January 30, 2007 Yet another release from SGC, with covers of Bob Dylan, Marley, Jimmy Cliff, and a version of “One” with Bono. You almost kind of expect Sting to be on here somewhere. Fans of Oprah, Leno, and Harpers bazaar are not among the mix who are familiar with this group. -Pete

NATURAL BLACK

Far From Reality January 23, 2007 A reggae album that continues the message of hope and fighting the powers of discrimination, Natural Black has a stereotypical reggae album. However, his positive outlook on the world is a refreshing breath of fresh air. He kicks off his album with the first track “Think Big” which is a really good, positive song. Though it sounds like a fun album, it should be taken seriously, as Natural Black’s message is just as important as anything Bob Marley, Michael Franti, or Matishyahu has done. Check out other tracks such as track 2 “Never Hurt You”, track 8 “Can’t Mix Intelligence”, and my favorite track, number 14 “Beautiful Place”. This is by far one of the most beautiful and positive songs ever created. - Lane Zoerhof

JOHANNES WELCH, DAVID HESS AND PAUL HINGER

Stunderthorm January 23, 2007 Like listening to a bunch of critters in the middle of the swamp. Lotsa noise. Turan throat, didj, every percussive trick—loops – Teresa Jeane

TARTIT

Abacabok

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 40 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

January 23, 2007 A tuareg band consisting of five women and four men residing in the Timbuktu region. The women sit and play the rhythm while the men, veiled, sing and play instruments. Tuareg society is one of the few in Africa that allow women to choose their husbands. Produced by the Congotronics guy in his mobile studio in the middle of the desert.

SERGIO MENDES

Timeless January 12, 2007 Sergio Mendes does Santana doing Supernatural, sort of. In collaboration with Will.I.Am of the Black Eyed Peas, Sergio orchestrates a very interesting transgenre -- jazz -- CD. Mendes' jazzy piano arrangements and the Black Eyed Peas hip hop provide the thread that holds this album together with the likes of Justin Timberlake, Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott, Q-Tip, Marcelo D2, and more adding their signature licks. Very easy music that gets the fingers and toes tapping. Highlights: 2- That Heat: beautiful mix of Black Eyed Peas hip, the sweet voice of Erykah Badu, and more; 3- Berimbau/Consolacao: Stevie's harmonica in tight with the Mendes chorale makes this one; 5- Let Me: more jazz, less hop with some nice overlapping vocals, sax and Sergio's piano…very nice; 10-Timeless with India.Arie vocal; Timberlake's multifaceted 11-Loose Ends; 12- Fo'-Hop cuz it is intricate and more up tempo than most of the others; 13- Lamento (No Morro): a nice jazzy piece with the signature Mendes chorale; 15- Yes, Yes Y'All: best all-around piece on the collection… catchy bosa hip hop nova…or was that samba? Michael Burgwin

KATCHAFIRE

Slow-Burning January 12, 2007 Katchafire kicks off this album with a slow burning reggae tune that harkens the fuller ensembles of Mr. Bob Marley and the Wailers in their late 70's hey days. Solid rhythm and horn sections allow for some soulful simmerin'. Katchafire has a lot of love to give. Many of these odes are a hybrid of old school reggae, dub, and old school R&B. Some bonus tracks included with remixes from Mad Professor and Basscamp. This is a strong effort and definetely exhibits some quality new reggae, soaked in the 70's. Stand Out Tracks: I and I, Roots Music NO FCC Issues - Oliver

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 41 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

HAZMAT MODINE

Klezmer Blues January 8, 2007 New York’s Hebrew blues band. Definitely a wild ride without a boring moment. If you feel like nappin’ don’t put this one on. Some fine harmonica and slide guitar throughout and just enough tuba and hollerin’to make it funky..Reminds me a bit of Tubablooze , an old album we have around here somewhere. It’s nice to hear a different take on blues and swing. TD

KRISTO NUMPUBY

Assiko City January 8, 2007 Kristo Numpuby’s City is a true depiction of Assiko music. Being brought up in , Numpuby was drawn to the sound of the Bassa people who made music with everyday ordinary items. This album definitely offers something different, with not only great guitar but other interesting sounds produced from knives, forks, spoons, and empty bottles! If you’re looking for something completely different this is it for you.-MK

ALOE BLACC

Shine Through January 8, 2007 Right out of So Cal, Aloe Blacc doesn’t exactly fit in any one genre. Some of these songs really mix it up. At times you’ll hear rap with a kind of techno key board, or just singing along with a choppy beat. This album opens the idea of really being who you are. Aloe Blacc does many things from rap to piano. All in all it’s a welcome change and maybe the start of something new.- MK

ASTRID WILLIAMSON

Day of the Lone Wolf January 8, 2007 Williamson is a true and effective “” writer. Her songs at times can be very powerful, reflective, empowering sounds. At times Williamson sounds a bit like Alanis Morissette. After being dropped from her record label, she’s really bounced back writing and producing her own songs, distributing, and designing her own album. Just knowing that, you have such a higher appreciation for the moving sounds you here on this one.-MK

VARIOUS

One World Many Cultures December 11, 2006

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 42 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Great tracks, but we already have a lot of these. Still, they get lost in the shuffle. p

HABANA ABIERTA

Boomerang December 11, 2006 Eight-man collective that debuts in the US with this release of Cuban, jazz, brazilian, funk, rock, hip-hop and pop. A fun upbeat release. p

RAHIM ALHAJ

When the Soul is Settled: Music of Iraq December 11, 2006 Traditional Arabic music. ALHAJ plays the “,” which is similar to the lute, and is accompanied on this album by Souhail Kaspar, an acclaimed Lebanese percussionist. This is the musical form of “maqam.” Each piece incorporates improvisation followed by a rendition of a distinctive Iraqi tune. p

FORRO IN THE DARK

Bonfires of Sao Joao December 11, 2006 The band leader also plays with , David Byrne and Caetano Veloso. “Forro” is a traditional style of music from the Northeast of Brazil, and this is a modern jazzed-up take. Album features vocals from Gilberto, Byrne, and also Miko Hatori.

RODRIGO Y GABRIELA

Rodrigo Y Gabriela November 27, 2006 Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero met as teenagers in a Mexico City band and have been playing together ever since, mostly acoustic duo guitar. Now based in Dublin, the two have gotten the attention of Irish pubs, radio stations and music labels, opening for artists as diverse as folksinger Damian Rice, jazzman Courtney Pine and the Buena Vista Social Club. They're known for their lightening speed on the guitars, heard best on "Tamacun" (#1), "Vikingman" (#3), "Ixtapa" (#5) and 'P.P.A." (#9). In addition, check out their versions of "Stairway to Heaven" (#6) and Metallica's "Orion" (#7). MJVD

VARIOUS

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 43 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Rhythms Del Mundo November 20, 2006 album consisting of a variety of hot Afro-Cuban sounds contains a number of today’s biggest artists, such as U2, , Jack Johnson, and more, as well as collaborations from members of the Buena Vista Social Club. This album was arranged by Demitrio Muniz, Miguel Patterson, and Kenito, putting together a “melting pot of rare sounds, taking mainstream artists and remixing their music to the sound of . The project was sparked by the devastating Tsunami of Christmas 2005, and continued to evolve when more environmental disasters occurred, which is why the album aids the Artists Project Earth, which supports awareness fro Climate Change and Natural Disaster Relief.

THE IDAN RAICHEL PROJECT

November 13, 2006 While recent headlines are dominated by conflict and war in the Middle East, this Israeli music collaborative has achieved success by celebrating diversity, blending traditional Ethiopian folk music, Arabic poetry, Yemenite chants, Biblical Psalms and Caribbean rhythms. The IDAN RACHEL PROJECT is the brainchild of an Israeli keyboardist and producer who invited over 70 musicians with a wide variety of backgrounds to take part in the recordings. Raichel has been fascinated in particular by the growing population of Ethiopian Jews in Israel, and many songs feature members of Israels Ethiopian community. The record also features traditional Yemenite vocalists, a toaster and percussionist from Suriname and a South African singer. -P

MOSHAV

Misplaced November 13, 2006 A Jewish folk/rock/pop act with flavors of traditional Hebrew music scattered throughout. Comparisons to Matisyahu are unavoidable here, but Moshav focuses more on guitar driven tunes having more in common with acts like Ben Harper or Jack Johnson than with reggae or hip-hop. (Though those influences pop up occasionally as well, most notably on tracks 6 and 7, respectively.) A strangely pleasant and upbeat cover (?!) is a nice highlight (Track 9) and the rest of the Album is satisfying at least, and quite enjoyable at best. No FCC issues, so play away! - Calin

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 44 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

CONECTOR

Conector November 6, 2006 Great worldbeat! This music makes me wish I could speak Spanish. All of the tracks were pleasant to listen to. The music has classical feeling guitaring, sometimes tribal beats, with a strong electronic background. It’s a unique blend. There’s quite a variety in vocals too. Some possible playables are 1 “Troncoroca uientomar,” 4 “Musica Somos,” and 6 “Altisimo.” Jake

ATERCIOPELADOS

Oye October 31, 2006 Aterciopelados is one of the first bands in Columbia, as well as is among the Latin American country’s top groups. Los Aterciopelados, whose name translates as "the Velvety Ones,” were recipients of Grammy award nominations in 1997 and 98. The band has created its own sound by combining a rock-solid approach with a variety of Latin American musical traditions, which include , bolero, and much more. -Ben Buteyn

JACKIE MITTOO

Wishbone October 31, 2006 Jackie Mittoo was born in Jamaica in 1948 and died in 1990. He was a Jamaican keyboardist who learned to play piano at the age of 4 and grew up to be a triple album creator. He immigrated to in the end of the 60’s and it was there were he recorded his three albums, which expressed his roots with reggae feel. This album is a reissue of Mittoo’s 1971 “hello kiss.”

NATALIE MACMASTER

Yours Truly October 30, 2006 Following Natalie MacMaster’s critically acclaimed 2003 release Blueprint which combined her brilliant fiddle playing with the best of American roots instrumentalists and won her “Best Female Artist of the Year” and “Best Roots/Traditional Solo Recording” at Canada’s East Coast Music Awards in 2005 comes Mac Master’s 10th full-length release Yours Truly. Natalie has recently been named the youngest member of the Order of Canada—Canada’s highest civil honor—for her extensive contributions to Canadian culture and her tireless efforts to bring the music of Cape Breton to an ever-increasing number of listeners. Born into an inspirational musical family in Cape Breton, an island off the east coast of Canada, and niece of the

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 45 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

influential fiddler Buddy MacMaster, Natalie naturally picked up the fiddle given to her by her great-uncle at the age of 9 and hasn’t looked back. The internationally renowned, passionate, Celtic phenomenon has kept her compelling tap-dancing/fiddling killer combination spinning by doing such gigs as performing for an audience of 80,000 as opening act for Carlos Santana, and opening for the Chieftains. Her fiddling has also been heard on television commercials for Tim Horton’s Donuts and General Motors Pontiac. -Jake Burritt

MARISA MONTE

Universa ao Meu Redor October 13, 2006 “Universo Ao Meu Redor” “Infinito Particular” Monte has been around for years, from her discovery by David Byrne in the early nineties to several releases and collaborations since. Now, after four silent years she’s back with a splash, and the simultaneous release of her seventh and eighth albums on Blue Note Records. Well, sometimes doing something crazy is what it takes to get on the radar—but, does the music stack up? “Infinito Particular” keeps it nice and slow, with simple Instrumentation, for a samba type of feel. “Universo Ao Meu Redor,” as evidenced by the cover, is a bit poppier, but stays simple and well-crafted. All in all, these seem like a great effort. -Pete Quick Links: Marisa Monte

ARCHIVE

Into the Light October 13, 2006 (Local) This is from Jim Spalink of PUCK FAIRE and Fred Willson of AMADAUN. These long-time local collaborators sat down together put out an album that could be described as classical, Celtic, Renaissance, Swing, or Folk. Take your pick! (get it —“pick?”) – Pete

BRAZILIAN GIRLS

Talk to La Bomb September 23, 2006 ' sophomore album "" explodes with a booming fusion of electro, dub, pop, punk, and dance music to more edgy and elaborate arrangements. Front-woman Sabina Sciubba manages to alternate between five different languages-English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish-often all in one sentence. The band got together to record their second album in a New York City Studio and created most the songs out of an improvisatory, spontaneous mind set. A surprise to most would be the fact that the title track "Talk To The Bomb" was essentially a first take, with the drummer and bassist laying down a slippery foundation of cymbal hits, snare rolls, http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 46 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

and bass fillips, while lead singer affects a stiff-upper-lip delivery atop their animated groove. Tracks to listen to are 1 "Jique," 2 "All About Us," 3 "Last Call," 8 "Talk to the Bomb," and 12 "Problem." Talk To La Bomb is sure to blow you away with its in-your-face intensity and sporatic dialect variations. Quick Links: Brazilian Girls-Home

SI SE

More Shine September 11, 2006 This album can get a little on the dancey side, please try to play the more “WYCE” tracks Quick Links: Si Se-myspace

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Explorations September 11, 2006 Verve’s done it, Savoy’s done it, now Concorde. Why not?? Quick Links: Concorde Music Group-Explorations

THE ELDERS

Racing the Tide September 11, 2006 A continuation of their infectious sound mixing traditional Celtic Jigs & Reels with Rock sounds & as always a good sense of humor. It is impossible to listen to this band with out moving your feet & singing a verse or two. My advice is to just grab a Guinness or some good Irish Whisky raise a toast & enjoy a band that continues to raise the bar when it comes to modern . - Gregg Saur Quick Links: The Elders Official Website

AZAM ALI

Elysium for the Brave September 4, 2006 This is Ali’s second full length solo release, and first release where she sings predominantly in English. She brings in musicians from across the globe to collaborate on this effort that is balanced between the traditional soundscapes of her Iran-born, India-raised roots, and that of her current residence

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 47 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

in LA and the modern electronic sound of global fusion. She is from the bands “Vas” and “Niyaz.” -Pete Quick Links:

BLACKMORE’S NIGHT

The Village Lanterne July 24, 2006 Think medieval times when you listen to this album that features ex-Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and the soothing vocals of Candice Night. The songs range from Fleetwood Mac-esque beauty to Irish folk ditties that may seem bizarre, however are very interesting to listen to as the music really does capture the essence of emotion as sung by Candice Night. Not only is Blackmore’s guitar work essential to this project, but Night’s vocals range from Madonna a la late 90’s to Lorenna McKennitt making for a beautiful sound. The album is a steady mix of instrumentation and vocals with a aforementioned medieval time sound. Track 3, “I Guess It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is the standout track with upbeat catchy lyrics and Blackmore’s signature guitar licks and arrangements. Track 9, “Mond Tanz/Child In Time” is another classical piece that suggests more rock then traditional music. Also listen to track 10, “Streets of London” and track 12 “Olde Mill Inn” and from the bonus tracks, track number 16 “Street of Dreams” which features Joe Lynn Turner accompanying Candice Night on vocals. Overall a good album that is a little out of the ordinary, but is definitely worth your time. Lane Zoerhof Quick Links: The Official Ritchie Blackmore and Blackmores Night Website

THE KLEZMATICS

Wonder Wheel July 24, 2006 There has certainly been a revival of American Roots music & this CD represents one of the most unusual parings one could imagine. Combining the still timely lyrics of the Great with the most popular Klezmer Band of the 21’st Century the Klezmatics. The CD starts with 3 Woody Classics starting with “Come When I Call You”. With the current political climate the lyrics of this track feel like they could have been written yesterday. “Mermaid Avenue” represents one of the finest interpations I Have ever heard. The Klezmatics are joined on several tracks with the beautiful vocals of Celtic musician Susan McKewon check out “Gonna Get Through This World” as a fine example. Some of the later tracks on this Disc with the more traditional Klezmer sounds were fun, but eventually lost my interest. That being said this CD offers something for everybody. - Gregg Saur Quick Links:

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 48 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

The Klezmatics-World Famous Klezmer Music

SUNI PAZ

Bandera Mia-Songs of Argentina July 24, 2006 Suni Paz's "melodious musical mosaic" is a tribute to her homeland and source of inspiration. Because of the emotions Paz puts into her singing, one does not need to understand the words to appreciate the songs. The album includes tango, , bailecito, carnavalito, , , and vidalita. "Her voice is strong and supple, her rhythmic instincts are sure and her repertoire of original songs... includes several affecting, straightforward celebrations of life and love." - Quick Links: Suni Paz children's music and folk music Smithsonian Folkways-Suni Paz

RADIO MESSIAH

Radio Messiah July 24, 2006 Winner of the Intersection's High School Battle of the Bands, Radio Messiah is an upbeat blend of rock, blues, jazz, and reggae. The band consists of four members who met in the summer of 2005 at Jimmy Dillon's Blue Star Music Camp. Their influences are Eric Clapton, Santana, Allman Brother's Band, , , The Band, Bob Dylan, Pearl Jam, , Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin, and Neil Young. – Ben Kleine Quick Links: Radio Messiah-myspace

LOS LONELY BOYS

Sacred July 19, 2006 The three Garza brothers of Los Lonely Boys are still standing strong with their second album. Lead singer, Henry, likens the trio's music to a burrito or mosaic. "It's just a mixture of everything we've learned: music from our father, Richie Valens, Stevie Ray, Willie. All the music that we've gathered... Fats Domino, Santana, Skynyrd." "On 'Sacred', Los Lonely Boys sound so comfortable and at ease, it seems as if every song just rolled off their fingers and out their mouths." - Guitar World guest sings on track 11. 4. "te quiero baby all night long" - Ben Kleyn Quick Links: Official Site Site

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 49 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

LENINE

Lenine July 19, 2006 After three "remarkable" Brazilian albums, Lenine (pronounced Leh-NEE-nee) makes his debut in America with his self-titled U.S. release. In the past, he's won "Best CD," "Best Male Vocalist," "Best Song," and two Latin Grammys. His music has been compared to Ry Cooder, , Silvio Rodrigues, Stevie Wonder, Massive Attack, and . All in Spanish. – Ben Kleyn

GORAN IVANOVIC GROUP

Self-titled July 5, 2006 This group from Croatia based out of Chicago plays a mix of Eastern European folk tunes and jazz influenced compositions, flamenco, classical, blues, and jazz. Ivanovic is a guitar virtuoso and talented band leader. -Pete “The group’s repertoire is loaded with dynamics, and they move from soft contemplative interludes to wholly original, speed-driven Balkan jazz.” – Downbeat Magazine Quick Links: GoranIvanovicGroup.com

ZIGGY MARLEY

Love is My Religion June 26, 2006 "This album is from my heart," says Ziggy Marley, son of the late Bob Marley. Full of inspiration, Ziggy’s second solo album blends the sounds of blues, R&B, hop-hop, and reggae. Themes from his debut, Dragonfly, are revisited and further explored. Yet the album, as its name suggests, centers around universal brotherhood, a message that “people need to hear.” 1. “light it up” 3. “love is the song we make tonight” the song is about sex 4. “Before I met you, I was real low, now everyone know / now that I know you hey I’m real high” 6. “Pakalolo” (Hawaiian word for marijuana) -Ben Kleyn

THINK OF ONE

Trafico June 23, 2006 Have you ever wanted to call everywhere home, cavort with wanderers, have techno parties til dawn, and pass out daily with a cuica* in your lap? This may be your band. “Think of One” is a gang of wandering Gypsies that emerged from a squatter’s camp in Belgium many years ago and continues to roam, having lived in an RV for over 9 years. The members: Guitarist, singer and driver David Bovee helps move the RV http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 50 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

every three days. Ganga “the Bulldozer” Barreto, is nicknamed for how hard she hits the drum. Dona Cilia, now 67, the mother figure of the band, specializes in traditional coco singing. Percussion wizard Carranca built his drum kit from old barrels. The band is rooted in the traditional music backgrounds of coco, ciranda, and forro, and incorporate modern sounds. Enjoy! -Pete *drum

BANCO DE GAIA

Farewell Ferengistan June 23, 2006 Toby Marks aka Banco de Gaia is a brilliant ambient/dance composer and producer. His music has much less lyrics than rhythm and sound, which in this case is a meditation on humanity’s global predicament, of greed, commercialism and self-servitude destroying itself. In Central Asia “Ferengistan” refers to the home of fat greedy Westerners. Thusly the album title means, basically, down with “The Man.” –Pete Quick Links: Official band site

THE LASH

Fire Under Grace June 23, 2006 (Local) The Celtic folk-rock quartet The Lash is from Lansing, Mich. (seems that Moriarty's Pub in that town is their home base), and on this third release from the band, another helping of their blend of rock and Irish music is served up. Three are instrumentals (#1, #6 and #9); the rest blend traditional influences with commentary of life as we know it today. They call their brand of music "Celtic Mayhem." I wouldn't say anything here will blow the doors off the studio, but they do emphasize a more power-driven style of Irish tunes than most in the genre. "Ghost World" (#2) has a reggae beat and "The Voice" (#5) uses cell phone rings, but "Newry Highwayman" (#8) is the gem of this set. - MJVD Quick Links: The Lash on CD Baby MySpace Profile

Jehro

Jehro June 2, 2006 This French Artist’s (nickname: J-Ro) American debut is pretty good, bringing to mind recent releases from Amadou and Miriam, Seu Jorge and Jack Johnson. Overall, pretty easy on the ears. From the label: “As a child Jehro’s imagination was fueled by the dreams of his Greek-Italian-Corsican mother, and the songs of his Georges Brassens-inspired singer of a father…” -Pete

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 51 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Natacha Atlas

Mish Maoul May 8, 2006 Born in Belgium of Middle Eastern decent, globetrotter “Atlas” (her real name) creates a body of work that refuses to be categorized (yet still must be), mishing Western urban electronic beats with traditional Afro-Arabic sounds. Mish Maoul brings Atlas “back to her roots” in collaboration with Count Dubulah with whom she first worked in “Transglobal Underground” and on her debut release back in the early ‘90s. The new album targets the sound and traditions of the music she grew up with in the Moroccan suburb of Brussels, particularly when the Golden Sound Studio Orchestra of Cairo makes an entrance. She’s also a good belly dancer, and was the goodwill ambassador to the UN Conference Against Racism in 2001. -Pete

Cibelle

The Shine of Dried Electric Leaves May 8, 2006 “see-BELL-ee” Cibelle makes use of a variety of elements to create a unique sound. Imagine a collaboration among Tom Waits, Madeline Peyroux, Bebel Gilberto and Architecture in Helsinki and you’re halfway there. The album is packed with acoustic instrumentation, shaped by electronic processing, with creative use of miscellaneous items like kids toys peppered throughout. -Pete

Rin'

Inland Sea May 8, 2006 Rin’ are Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, Class of 2003 graduate trio - Mana, Tomoca, and Chie - who dramatically collaborates traditional Japanese musical instruments (Koto, Jushichi-gen, Biwa, Sangen, and Shakuhachi) with modern, pop-like musical elements, creating a unique traditional music & culture like never before. Their unit name comes from the English word ‘Ring' , the Japanese word ‘Wa’ (meaning ‘Ring’ and ‘Japanese-style‘), and their aspiration to create a ‘Ring’ (in other words, ‘Circle’) of music.

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 52 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Yoshida Brothers

III May 8, 2006 Domo Records Not your father’s Tsugaru Shamisen…

Various Artists

Congotronics 2 – Buzz ‘N’ Rumble From the Urb ‘N’ Jungle May 8, 2006 All of these seven bands draw on traditional dance music to which they have incorporated heavily distorted sounds generated by do-it-yourself amplification to form this “electro- traditional” sound. As musicians come from diverse regions, they use diverse rhythms, timbres, and instrumentation. Electrified thumb and megaphones are joined by an array of buzzing drums, swirling guitars, and hypnotic balafons. The subtitle of this album draws on the legendary Ali-Foreman boxing fight which took place in Kinshasa in 1974, nicknamed “Rumble in the Jungle.” , BB King and Myriam Makeba performed around the event, which had a deep impact on a generation of Congolese musicians and fans. All Things Considered, March 27, 2006 • A CD series called Congotronics showcases urban traditional bands in Kinshasa, Congo. The first Congotronics CD was a hit in Europe and the United States, especially popular with DJs who work the music into their club mixes. Now, Congotronics 2 is being released.

Shrift

Lost In A Moment April 19, 2006 Lost in a Moment is the debut album from a pair of veterans on the electronica and club scene working together: Dennis Wheatley, better known as part of Atlas, and Nina Miranda, a roving British vocalist. The combination of the two for a single sound becomes an interesting exercise in organic music. The vocals are enveloped in electronica, but Wheatley is careful to take care with them. Miranda's voice is soft and often unadorned. She has a naïveté to her delivery that evokes (along with touches of Portuguese in her lyrics) the work of Astrud Gilberto. At the same time, in combination with Wheatley's instrumentals, the sound comes close to the trip-hop of Portishead at times. This is a fine example of electronica as accompaniment, but more. Normally, the production wizards spend so much time devising new tricks and hooks to show off that the end result doesn't seem quite put together when a vocalist is added. Here, the total is a fine piece of work, with the components complementing one another well. -AMG http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 53 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Lila Downs

La Cantina April 5, 2006 The rhythm loops and subtle electronic effects weave in and out of the traditional instrumentation over which Lila sings this wonderful program of Mexican songs. Downs' dark, smoky voice is the perfect vehicle for these songs, which juxtapose the deep emotion of fado and mariachi music with norteño and tejano influences. Everywhere you turn there are deeper complexities lurking beneath the already complicated surfaces of the songs: the quietly wailing clarinet that follows the distorted guitar solo on "Agua de Rosas" or the ska-funk inflections that are constantly hovering around the edges of "Tu Recuerdo y Yo". -AMG

Salsa Celtica

El Agua De La Vida April 5, 2006 is a solid, hard-swinging salsa band that just happens to be from Scotland. Their recordings have incorporated elements of Celtic music (both Scottish and Irish), and they have employed some instruments that are typically heard on traditional Celtic recordings (including , Uillean pipes, , and whistles). But the instruments that really do the most to define their sound--Latin percussion, piano, horns--are standard salsa/Afro-Cuban instruments. -AMG

Stephin Merritt

Showtunes April 5, 2006 Ever been off the edge before? This is where you end up. This is indescribable, but certainly has a feeling to it, and some points of interest. Its funny, tongue-in-cheek, and serious. One could liken this to TMBG, but only if you are able to throw in a little Woody Allen and some Lin Xu. The 26 songs that make up this collection are culled from three collaborative productions between Merritt and Chinese theater director Chen Shi-Zheng. Try to resist the urge to play track 4.

CESARIA EVORIA

Rogamar February 28, 2006 The legacy continues. Now in her early sixties, Evoria still carries the same distinctive honey-toned, soft-burred voice. This album means literally “praise the sea, pray to the sea;” the unpredictable Mar Azul that poets sing about and seamen fear. This about sums it up: “My talent is to sing.” – Cesaria Evora -P

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 54 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

ANGA

Echu Mingua February 13, 2006 Miguel “Anga” Diaz is a Cuban percussionist known for his work with Irakere, as well as backing stuff for the Afro Cuban Allstars and Buena Vista Social Club. This is a fusion of styles, sometimes a bit random, sometimes leaning more traditional sometimes avant-garde. His signature setup is 5 differently tuned , sometimes adding one or two additional drums. Lots of guest artists from the who’s who of Cuba, including his past bands. This album is intriguing—some of it is just too cool. What a nice surprise! We need this. -P

THE COTTARS

Forerunner February 13, 2006 Precocious Canadian Celtic quartet the Cottars formed in late 2000 on the Nova Scotian island of Cape Breton. Comprised of siblings Ciarán and Fiona MacGillivray and Jimmy and Roseanne MacKenzie, the small collective of 15- to 17-year-old multi- instrumentalists, singers, and step dancers burst onto the traditional music scene in 2001 with nary a glance back. They have shared the stage with and played for everyone from Altan and John McDermott to Wayne Gretzky and Senator Edward Kennedy. -AMG

APOLLO NOVE

RES INEXPLICATA VOLANS February 7, 2006 Brazilian producer Apollo Nove has played a crucial supporting role for many of his country's talented young artists, such as the singer Cibelle, who featured his arrangements on her entree into the U.S. market two years ago. On Apollo Nove's own debut, he mixes in disco, psychedelia via an electric sitar, traditional Hawaiian refrains--and also includes a new composition from Rita Lee of the legendary Tropicalia group Os Mutantes. The high point in this quiet collage is Seu Jorge's deep intonation of "Ensaboar Voce" over an acoustic guitar and beats that convey both trippy atmospherics and concerted hesitation. - Chicago Tribune

VARTTINA

Miero January 31, 2006 Varttina, Finland’s most successful folk group, started out in 1983 when sisters Mari and Sari Kaasin and their mother Pirkko began to revive traditional Karelian songs and present them in http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 55 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

new ways. They were soon joined by 18 other singers and musicians. Over the years the group has experienced many transitions and today only two members of the original group of 21 musicians and singers remain. The roots-based vocal and instrumental style on Miero (Outcast) is unusual, with alluring and haunting female harmonies. Although most of the songs have an airy, lullaby quality to them, the English translation of the lyrics reveals the terrible circumstances and negative emotions of ‘outcasts’ including despair, poverty, misery, loneliness, rejection, hopelessness, anger and a desire for revenge. For example, "Mataleena" tells of a woman who kills her three babies by fire, water and earth. "The Sin" sounds light and danceable, yet the words include "May death eat them, eat them, death eat up the males." This new CD is released on Peter Gabriel’s Real World label and it’s debut coincides with the North American premiere of Lord of the Rings Musical (in Toronto) featuring music co-composed by Varttina. Victoria Aka Vudu

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

Long Walk to Freedom January 21, 2006 Ladysmith Black Mambazo was founded over thirty years ago and have averaged the release of an album a year. This compilation of re-worked L.B.M. songs begins with the first song founder Joseph Shabalala ever wrote for the group, which came to him in a dream from the voice of God. The album also features contributions from several other famous artists. -Pete

PATRICE LAROSE AND JULIA SARR

Set Luna January 21, 2006 “A solo album with two people;” Sengalese-French singer Julia Sarr with French flamenco-inspired guitarist Patrice Larose. Prior to this, each had been a backing musician. Youssou N’Dour , who appears on track 3, called Sarr “the fresh face of African Music. They begin from African roots and go from there. ”Africa is in motion,” Sarr explains. “Because in Africa we now have cable TV…My generation is one that is emerging with a mix of Africa and world sounds. -P

CANTUARIA~VINICIUS

Silva January 16, 2006 One chillin’ Brazilian. He has collaborated with Laurie Anderson, David Byrne, Brian Eno, Bill Frisell, and Arto Lindsay, but I promise he is not a total weirdo! Cantuaria’s main gig for 10 years was backing drummer/percussionist for Caetano Veloso.

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 56 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

His style has been called “post-electronica acoustic.” is a significant contributor on this album. -Pete

IARLA O LIONAIRD

Invisible Fields January 9, 2006 This solo release from lead vocalist is full of rich Celtic songs rooted in tradition. The album has a solemn yet poetic feel, a “love song to the Irish language.”

Jerry Gonzalez & the Fort Apache Band

Rhumba Buhaina December 3, 2005 Originally a member of Dizzy Gillespie’s band, Gonzalez has played trumpet and flugelhorn with many bands as well as having produced over ten of his own albums since the late 1970s. In this recording, his Cuban roots put a new spin on the music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers.

Curumin

Achados E Perdidos December 3, 2005 São Paulo's Curumin (aka Luciano Nakata Albuquerque) brings us a confluence of cultures on his infectious debut album Achados e Perdidos. The album recalls 70s samba funk at its best, channeling musical greats like Jorge Ben, Milton Nascimento and Tim Maia, but peppered with modern flourishes from jazz and funk to hip hop. You'll hear egg shakers, Juno synths and scratching all in the same introduction, and later on an operatic chorus, an overwhelming orchestra, his raspy Portuguese croon conveying the urgency and passion of the .

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Africa Calling: Live 8 at Eden December 3, 2005 On Saturday July 2, 2005 10 took place around the world as part of Live 8 in support fo the campaign to Make Poverty History. One of these concerts was Africa Calling, organized by Peter Gabriel and held in the Eden Project in Cornwell, South West . This disc holds 8 excerpts from a live DVD produced of this show.

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 57 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Toto Bona Lukua

Toto Bona Lukua August 8, 2005 Two parts Africa and one part Caribbean Islands combine for this new project that features vocalists Gerald Toto from Martinique, Richard Bona from Cameroon, and Lokua Kanza from the Democratic Republic of Congo. This vocal treat is the result of a "No Format" Paris studio session that was planned only to be as spontaneous as possible. Quick Links: Sunnyside Records

Shooglenifty

Live - Radical Mestizo August 1, 2005 Scotland’s six-piece band began their journey in 1994. They’ve toured the world since, expanding their Celtic roots to include rock n’ roll, drum programming and a variety of influences from around the World. Their latest disc was recorded in Mexico City as part of the 20th Festival of Mexico and comes to us from Compass Records. Quick Links: Shoogle Compass Records

Shooglenifty

Live- Radical Mestizo July 7, 2005 Scotland’s six-piece Celtic fusion band Shooglenifty began their journey in 1994. They’ve toured the world since, expanding their Celtic roots to include rock n’ roll, drum programming and a variety of influences from around the World. Their latest disc was recorded in Mexico City as part of the 20th Teatro de La Cuidad in Mexico City as part of the Festivale Internationale. Quick Links: Nifty Compass

Kiran Ahluwalia

Kiran Ahluwalia June 28, 2005 The international debut album from this Indian-born, Canadian- raised vocalist. The new self-titled album holds a batch of remixed highlights from Kiran’s two previous independent releases - the most http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 58 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

recent of which earned the 2004 for Best World Music Recording. Ahluwalia is essentially an interpreter of “”, an ancient poetic style of sung verse popular on the Indian sub-continent. Two new tracks featuring Cape Breton fiddler Natalie MacMaster help to broaden the global scope of the effort. Quick Links: Kiran's Site Featured

Femi Kuti

Live at the Shrine June 28, 2005 Femi Kuti is the heir to the throne of the “Africa Shrine”, the mythical temple of Afro- created by his late father Fela Kuti. Fela merged music and activism in his 30-year struggle against injustice in post-Colonial . In October of 2000, three years after his father’s death, Femi Kuti created a physical center for Afro-Beat ideology, The New Africa Shrine in Lagos, Nigeria. Every Sunday night, people from all over the world gather at The Shrine for music and inspiration by Femi and his band. The cultural phenomenon of the “Sunday Jump” is now the subject of the Documentary film - Femi Kuti: Live at the Shrine - now available in a dual CD/DVD release from Palm Pictures. Quick Links: Femi Fela Femi @ Palm

Matisyahu

Live at Stubb's June 15, 2005 Cultures collide once again on the debut release from Hasidic Reggae newcomer Matisyahu, a live recording from Stubb’s in Austin, . Matisyahu was once known as Matthew Miller, a suburban Jewish kid with a taste for hippie culture. Following a dramatic spiritual transformation, Matthew devoted himself to his faith. He also discovered a love for reggae and hip-hop. The rest, as the cliche goes, is history. Quick Links: Matisyahu

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 59 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Shukar Collective

Urban Gypsy June 15, 2005 Shukar Collective share a fresh extension of folkloric tradition - this coming from the mountains of Romania. Their sound is based on ursari music - the music of Romanian bear handlers. Traditionally, the men would sing and play percussive instruments like barrels and spoons while the bear would be made to dance. Shukar Collective has combined three famed ursari vocalists with six of Romania’s finest producers. Each producer brings his own contemporary electronic flavor to the mix - minus the dancing bears. Quick Links: Collective Culture.com Feature World Music Network

Nouvelle Vague

Nouvelle Vague June 14, 2005 So, two producers, Marc Collins and Oliver Libaus, realized that no one had ever recorded Bossa Nova versions of the songs of , The Dead Kennedys, Killing Joke, Sisters of Mercy, The Clash or any number of Post-Punk and New Wave artists. See, "Nouvelle Vague" actually means "New Wave" in French and "Bossa Nova" in Portuguese. Crazy. So they managed to talk a group of young French female singers who had never actually heard the original versions songs into laying down vocals for them. I guess we’ll try anything once. Quick Links: Home

Celso Fonseca

Rive Gauche Rio June 6, 2005 This is just the second international release from Celso Fonseca, easily one of Brazil’s most influential musical figures. Fonseca’s name can be found all over the works of Brazil’s top Bossa Nova artists. Fonseca’s name can be found all over the works of Brazil’s top Bossa Nova artists. His songs are often covered, he’s won awards for his production skills and, in 1998, Fonseca took the Samba scene to London, producing the show Since Samba Has Been Samba, again featuring Brazil’s best.

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 60 of 61 CMC | 88.1FM WYCE 4/2/09 11:05 AM

Quick Links: SELL-so Music of Brazil Review Biografia

Lin Xu

Exuberance October 16, 2003 Accordion music from China? Yep, and to make it even wilder, the 21-year-old currently lives in Grand Rapids! As a youngster, the multi-talented Lin appeared on Chinese TV shows and movies, and also learned the accordion, but it was in the U.S. that he took up the difficult instrument in earnest. Since then, he's won numerous national competitions on the instrument. This debut CD shows a range of styles, from jazz-inflected to music from his homeland to classical to haunting gypsy-inspired. All this and a sense of humor: his website, features a page of accordion jokes. Different --- and cool. Quick Links: Lin's Site

Tiny Tim with Brave Combo

Girl December 31, 1969

http://www.grcmc.org/radio/music.php?genre_letter=W Page 61 of 61