Examiner,
CD Review
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Well, it's another new music Tuesday and time for me to highlight another album that is pretty far off the beaten path. And again, loyal reader, I have to explain that I am not exactly an expert in the music I am presenting to you. Yes, it's true. I don't know that much about music from Ghana. But again, that doesn't stop me from enjoying the music of Mohammed Alidu and the Bizung Family.
The album Land of Fire (self-released) begins with the song "Zomnilanisala." My first impression is that this song reminds me of another African artist Oliver Mtukudzi. The guitar tuning provides the same bright sound that you would hear from the popular artist from Zimbabwe. I don't understand any of the lyrics of this song, but I don't feel it's necessary to feel the joy that bubbles from this tune.
Then there is the song "Salabe." When I listen to this song, it just sounds like a tune that is steeped in tradition. It is folky in that it feels like the sort of music that is passed down from one generation to the next. I'm not sure I could explain what about this song gives it that traditional feel, but I can't. I guess the best comparison I can think of involves three types of music from the south: Cajun, zydeco, and bluegrass. When you listen to those types of music, you know that the musicians are playing music that has been passed from one generation to the next. This is similar, but with a lot more history to back it up.
OK, so what is this music all about? Well, it's one part traditional African folk music, one part funk, and all soul. I don't mean sould like Irma Thomas or Marvin Gaye. What I mean is that you are sure to feel whatever this band is singing about. And you are pretty likely to get your feet moving when you listen to this. So since it is a new music Tuesday, why not add some music that is completely new to your collection? I'm willing to bet that you'll get your money's worth if you buy this album.
09/20/10
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