World Music A Cappella Recordings

Aquabella : Nordlichter (Northern Lights)

Review: In search of new stories for their Winter concert program Aquabella discovered the Far North. Here they have set timeless Icelandic myths to music, with their own original texts. True to their World Music concept, they also sing pieces from Sweden, Iceland, Norway, and Latvia in their original languages. In these myths set to song a central role is played by the Islandic giantess Gryla, and her 13 Troll sons, who during the nights between the 12th nd 24th of December, appear in peoples' houses, exercising the very worst of human qualities; They scratch up the cooking pots, lose important items, steal anything edible, and frighten people with weird sounds and unexplained phenomena. They are never punished for their misdeeds, but rather the innocent children are unjustly accused. To compensate, the Trolls bring the children little presents in this season, and are each night anxiously awaited. After the 25th of December, the Trolls disappear again, one after the other, and once again become invisible to humans. Aquabella, with their wonderful original songs, bring the 13 Trolls unforgettably to life.

Songlist: Allen Die Willen Naar Island Gaan, Gryla, Familiengluck, Stufur & Pottasleikir, Askarsleikir, Hurdaskellir, Kling, Schedrik, Skyrgamur Giljargaur Stekkjastaur, Ketrokur, Thvorusleikir, Herr Mannelig, Bjugnakraekir, Kristallen Den Fina, Visur Vatnsenda Rosu, An Die Kerze, No Klokka

Ladysmith Black Mambazo : And Friends

Review: Since their earliest days in the 1960's, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has shared the studio and stage with scores of artists from around the world, representing just about every possible musical genre. The South African a cappela gospel ensemble's appearance on Paul Simon's landmark Graceland album is probably the most widely-recognized of the group's cross-cultural collaborations, but Simon's 1986 Grammywinning recording is merely the tip of a much larger iceberg. Over the years, the group has demonstrated its melodic, harmonic and rhythmic versatility in recordings with an array of artists representing folk, rock, pop, soul, country, classical, hip-hop and world music. In each case, they have taken the work of a great artist and made it even better. The group has assembled a two-disc set of recordings that capture Ladysmith Black Mambazo s reach across the cultural divide and joining hands with musicians from around the globe.

Songlist: Knocking On Heaven's Door, Weeping, Homeless, Diamonds On the Soles of Her Shoes, Shosholoza, World In Union, Passage To Promise, Amazing Grace/Nearer My God To Thee, Chain Gang, Rain Rain Beautiful Rain, Jabulani (Rejoice), Swing Low Sweet Chariot, Bread of Heaven, Dlondlobala Njalo, Homeless, Diamonds On the Soles of Her Shoes, Hello My Baby, People Get Ready, Abezizwe (Uniting Nations Together), Paradise Road, One Blood, Oh Happy Day, River of Dreams, Mbube, I'll Take You There, Inkanyezi Nezazi, Sohlabelela Hosana, Angimboni Ofana Naye, Mamizolo

Tenores di Bitti : Caminos de Pache

Review: Fascinating music from a unique choral tradition. The Tenores' singing is one of the more ancient ways of singing in the Mediterranean area. Nothing about its origins is sure, but the historians maintain that this traditional polyphony goes back to 3000 years ago. The singing is made by four male voices (oche, mesu oche, bassu and contra), the main feature of this polyphony is represented by 'bassu' and 'contra' because of their guttural and ancestral sound. The songs are profane poems speaking about the shepherds and their solitude in touch with the nature, or religious, referring to the popular world and its traditions. All the members have been learning the traditional singing since they were children.

Songlist: Ite M'Importa Sa Vida, Operas Divinas , Satiras de Remunnu, Un Ojada a Sa Pache, S'Isposu de Battorone, Muttos, S'Occabulera , Sa Bella Armonia, Battos Turritas E Unu Caddone, S'Iscravamentu, Sa Cella Umidosa, Sa Grobes de S'Annussata

Review: In the years since the western world discovered the 'Mystery of the Bulgarian Voices,' a fascination with the striking harmonies, exciting rhythmic effects and haunting melodies only continues to grow. This new CD goes one step further: important 'classical' composers such as Krassimir Kyurkchiyski, Nokolai Stoykov and Milcho Vassilev are represent here in work which incorporate the elements of fold music into a more 'legitimate' setting. The results appeal to both the mind and heart of the listener. The Academic Folk Choir of the Plovdiv Academy, founded in 1980, specializes in a vast repertoire of both folk classical works under the direction of Vassilka Spassova, professor of conducting at the Academy. They have met with great success throughout Bulgaria as well as on tours of Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Russia and other European countries.

Songlist: Mehmetyo, Sevda Golema (Mehmetyo, My Love), Ivan Kalinka Dumashe (Ivan Told Kalinka), Snoshti Si, Mamo, Otidoh (Last Night I Went Out, Mother), Trugnala Mi Elena (Elena Has Left Me), Tri Byulbyula Peyat (Three Nightingales Are Singing), Yankin Brat (Yanka's Brother), Pilentse Pee (A Birdie Is Singing), Malka Moma Dvori Mete (The Little Maiden Sweeps the Yard), Dva Pastorala (Two Pastorales): Winter Pastorale, Dva Pastorala (Two Pastorales): Summer Pastorale, Pesen-Improvizatsia (Song-Improvisation), Listni Se, Goro (The Forest Is Putting Forth Leaves), Marinko, Moe Doshtero (Marinka, My Daughter), Begala Rada (Rada Ran Away), Hubava Mavruda (Pretty Mavruda)

Review: Akasa, (pronounced 'Akasha'), means 'Cavity of the Heart/Ether, that which fills everything,' and it is four beautiful young women from Australia. This is their debut CD, as far as we can tell, and it features six spiritual songs, 'Trust,' 'Walking Song,' 'Walk With Me,' 'It's Love I See,' 'Yahwe' and 'Turn Back The Time.' There is light, non-vocal percussion on all the tracks. The spiritual focus of the songs is universal, and the women harmonize with conviction, energy and joy. The liner notes are lovely and contain all the words and some nice pictures. This is an impressive, touching debut CD, and we're looking forward to hearing more good stuff from this group from Down Under.

Songlist: Trust, Walking Song, Walk With Me, It's Love I See, Yahwe, Turn Back the Time

Review: Melbourne, Australia's dynamic all-woman quartet Akasa, Vicki, Andrea, Diana and Heidi, gifts us with their third recording. 'Views' is happily mostly originals by group members, with an activist, ecological theme. Favorites are Heidi's 'Not for Profit' ('Imagine if every business in the world operated not for profit'), 'Leap Out,' 'Council Coconuts,' 'Freeway' and 'I Won't Break;' Diana's 'Indigo Tails' and 'Need Some Care;' and Andrea's 'Runaway,' 'The Cycle' and 'Lullaby.' These four dynamic, beautiful young women have a lot to say, emotionally and politically, and they write and sing it with style and grace. 12 thought-provoking tunes with some non-vocal percussion, played by the group. 'Akasa' (pronounced A-ka-sha) is Sanskrit for brilliant/cavity of the heart/ether/that which fills everything, and we couldn't have described them better. Powerful words, powerful music!

Songlist: Not For Profit, Bubazinho, Indigo Tails, Cry No More, Leap Out, Council Coconuts, Freeway, Runaway, I Won't Break, The Cycle, Need Some Care, Lullaby

Review: The Sanskrit word Akasa (pronounced A-ka-sha) means 'Cavity of the Heart/Ether, that which fills everything.' Vicki, Mihi, Heidi and Melanie, the four young women singers of this Melbourne-based group sing songs with an African flavor and rhythms. Their debut CD won 'Best World Folk Album' at the 2000 Contemporary A Cappella Awards in the U.S. They sing of the oneness of all people on the planet, of never leaving your dreams behind, songs of the pain of divorce, songs against rich developers, songs of the power of people acting together, songs against slavery, songs of revolution-messages of social change and activism. We hear various kinds of percussion on these songs, played by the women themselves, but the emphasis is on the rich voices of the singers and their message. There are 12 songs: 'World Citizen,' 'Eewoyi A,' 'Sweet Dreaming,' 'Power of the People,' 'Pin Ye Bo,' 'Slave,' 'Human Zoo,' 'Divorced,' 'Drifting,' 'Singing The Land,' Rere Ahu' and 'Walk With Me.' The liner notes are beautiful and include all the lyrics. Moving, powerful, rhythmic music!

Songlist: WorldCitizen, Eewoyi A, Sweet Dreaming, Power of the People, Pin Ye Bo, Slave, Human Zoo, Divorced, Drifting, Singing the Land, Rere Ahu, Walk With Me

Review: This recording is an eclectic mix of folk music from around the globe. Aquabella flows seamlessly from one piece to the next using stylistic singing appropriate to each. The songs are sung in close and often dissonant harmonies with a wide variety of vocal color. The only drawback is the lack of English translations in the liner notes, but the heartfelt and often dramatic singing provides us with musical understanding.

Songlist: Sto mi e milo, Wa Habibi, Ambalaba, Fosgail an dorus - Nighean bhuidh ruadh, Gorani, Mtiuruli Namgerebi, Jamm rekk, Froide unde friheit, Dorten is majn rueplats, Lamentatio, Batum, Cancion de la Madre del Amargo, Soneto a Constanza, Testimony, Satrpialo, Kaval Sviri

Review: 'Nani' is Armenian for 'mother,' and there are similar words in many languages. In Yiddish it is 'Nam'-wet nurse, in Hungarian 'Neni'-older sister, in Russian 'Njanja'-mum. 'Dschann,' from the original Persian, is a term of endearment which can be attached to any name. For their second CD, recorded in Berlin, the five German women singers of Aquabella looked for songs in which women tell their stories. Women seething with jealousy, women annoyed by midnight love serenades, women making fun of the village priest, women crying to their children or lovers, women who simply want to marry. The passion of Aquabella is filling these stories with life, in carefully but pointedly thinning out the song's prototype in order to enrich it with their own personal stories. These songs, most of them old ones, are thus sung to the world as responses. There are 15 songs here, all in languages like Russian, German, Armenian, Italian and Bulgarian, as we see in the beautiful full-color liner booklet. The sound is hauntingly beautiful and authentic; each song filled with spirit, feeling and passion!

Songlist: Ta na baid, El Chicolito, Makheuri Sakortsilo, Meine Aug'sind mude, Nani Dschann, Jerusalem, Der Pope, Asentada en mi ventada, Duerme negrito, Ikh bin a mame, Maria, Mari'!, Baxabene Oxama, Aye kerunene, Prechfr'kna ptitschka, Trost

Review: The talented singers of the vocal group Barbara Furtuna (meaning 'Cruel fate', it is the name of a traditional song about banned Corsicans) cover such prestigious bands as A Filetta and the like. Their repertoire is mainly traditional Corsican songs both sacred and secular, with a detour towards Georgian polyphony and a remake of the French song Le Temps des Cerises (A Bella Stagione). The great tradition of a cappella singing on the island is kept fresh and moving forward in this fine recording.

Songlist: Ave Maria Stella, Sanctus, Un Ti Ne Fa, Cantu D'Amore, Miseremini Mei, Fiure, T'Chemo, Agnus Dei , Furtunatu, A Bella Stagione, Barbara Furtuna, O Salutaris

Review: Barbara Furtuna is an all-male a cappella Choral quartet based on the Island of Corsica. Their chant is shaped by immoderate love for their country which they carry in their hearts, and which encourages them to continue their musical adventure with the same passion as when they were children. 'In Santa Pace,' their second album, refers to the way they sing and make their way through life, without rush and with a determination to enjoy every moment. Their repertoire is actually two repertoires, sacred and secular, remaining intimately linked, each nourishing the other. The 13 cuts segue seamlessly into one another and are sung mostly in Italian, although the liner notes are presented in French and English. 'Anghjulina,' 'O Salutaris Hostia,' 'Maria le sette spade,' 'Lux Aeterna,' the lively 'Veni O Bella' (lightly accompanied), 'S'he discitatu,' 'Suda Sangue,' the soaring 'Kyrie Eleison,' the lovely 'Lamentu chi ti cerca' (lightly accompanied), the plaintive 'Plavi putevi mora,' the haunting 'Tota pulchra es Maria,' the beautiful 'L'innamurati' and 'L'oru' (lightly accompanied), are all wonderful. We aren't sure of the translation of the lyrics for most of these songs, but the feeling comes through loud and clear. The powerful 'In Santa Pace' will touch and move you!

Songlist: Anghjulina, O Salutaris Hostia, Maria le sette spade, Lux aeterna, Veni O Bella, S'he discitatu, Suda Sangue, Kyrie Eleison, Lamentu chi ti cera, Plavi putevi mora, Tota pulchra es Maria, L'innamuarti, L'oru

Review: The Beijing Angelic Choir sings lullabies from Austria, Germany, Italy, England, America and more. The sweet voiced children's choir sings the many familiar tunes in Chinese. The children are accompanied by lightly synthesized backgrounds. It is very interesting to hear how western songs are interpreted by the Chinese. All of the translations are in Chinese.

Songlist: Lullaby (Mozart) (Austria), Lullaby (Brahms) (Germany), Lullaby (Italy), Children Are Asleep (Russia), Autumn Night (England), Sleep, Darling Baby (Mexico), Lullaby (Schubert) (Austria), Lullaby (America), Flow Gently Sweet Afton (J.E. Spilman), Lullaby (Japan), Yi-li Yi-li (Phillipines), Lullaby (France), Lullaby (India)

Review: Bernie Johnson Reagon should be declared a National Treasure. Since the days of the Civil Rights Movement there has been no voice so strong in musically exhorting freedom, justice and equality. Bernice was contacted in 1975 about recording some of her songs for a new record company, Paredon Records, which was formed to create recordings by singers involved in freedom struggles around the world. Give Your Hands To Struggle was the first recording on which she had used multi-tracking. She found, when she reviewed the original master tapes from Paredon which had been archived at the Smithsonian, that they were cut versions of her original recordings. As her desire was to have the original full length songs presented, she reconstructed them for this reissue CD. This a window on the soul of the Civil Rights Movement by the founder of Sweet Honey In The Rock.

Songlist: We've Come A Long Way To Be Together, There's A New World Coming, Room In The Circle, Old Ship Of Zion, Why Did They Take Us Away?, In My Hands, Joan Little, They Are Falling All Around Me, Freedom In The Air, I Won't Crumble With You If You Fall, Had, Took, Misled, Give Your Hands To Struggle

Review: If you lived in England and enjoyed having your spirit moved by music which captured the truth of freedom, love, and justice, all wrapped in beautiful harmony, you would be a Black Voices fan, eagerly awaiting their next show or recording. They are a collective of singers who exist to inspire but always perform as a quintet. For twelve years this group has been conducting workshops, concerts and recording with Carol Pemberton acting as the Music Director. This recording celebrate their tenth anniversary with a variety of quintets comprised of the current nine members of the collective. Some old standards are treated with respect but offered with unique arrangements. You'll find Ysaye Barnwell's 'We Are' leads off the selection of fourteen songs and it is a fitting beginning for the obvious spiritual kinship that Black Voices shares with Sweet Honey in the Rock. In the traditional realm are 'Poor Wayfaring Stranger' and 'Deep River.' Songs so familiar to be nearly standards are Carole King's 'Natural Woman' and 'Way Over Yonder' along with Tracy Chapman's 'Give Me One Reason.' Carol Pemberton's 'Rise Up and Praise,' and Monique Reid's 'A Song of Peace' and 'Always In My Heart' may well be covered by others until they become that familiar. Then one has to ask, who can actually cover one of Scott Leonard's tunes and not fall short by the standards set by Rockapella? You'll find out the answer to that question while listening to Black Voices arrangement of 'Nowhere.'

Songlist: We Are, Poor Wayfaring Stranger, Natural Woman, Hear our Land, Light At the End of the Tunnel, A Song of Peace, Deep River, Nowhere, Reggae D'Europe, Women Be Drumming, Always in my Heart, Give Me One Reason, Way Over Yonder, Rise Up and Praise!

Review: The five beautiful young women who are Black Voices bring us a rich and varied collection of traditional music ('The Lord's Prayer,' 'Amen,' the spiritual 'Steal Away,' the Scottish folk song 'Caledonia,' and 'In The Upper Room'), Contemporary music (the powerful 'I'm Goin' Stand,' Stevie Wonder's 'Love's in Need,' C. Pemberton's 'Living In a Real World,' 'AyiyaÐAn African Feel,' and 'Blues Strands') and Reggae ('Reggae Medley' of five songs. There is a lot of feeling and strength in this CD, in the choice of the music and especially in the harmonies of the perfectly pitched voices. There's some electric bass on 'Blues Strands,' otherwise all a cappella.

Songlist: The Lord's Prayer, History, Love's In Need, Steal Away, Living In A Real World, He'll Never Let You Down, Caledonia, 'Ayiya', Breathing Space, I'm Goin' Stand, Reggae Medley, Tings And Times, Work All Day, Uptown Top Rankin, Living On The Front Line/Do You Feel My Love, In The Upper Room, Amen, Blues Strands

Review: Wales is known by the phrase 'The Land Of Song', a fact underlined by the international success of artists of the calibre of Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey and Charlotte Church. Choirs are the base of this rich heritage andThe Blaenavon Male Choirwere formed close to a century ago in 1910. With member ranging in age from 15 to 80, the choir have enjoyed success in major competitions throughout the UK and successful tours of America, France, Norway and Hungary This rich collection of songs highlights both the traditional and modern and underlines their supreme vocal skills.

Songlist: Men Of Harlech, We Shall Walk Through The Valley, Ar Lan Y Mor, The Gypsy, Angels Watching O'er Me, Ty Di A Roddaist, What Would I Do Without My Music?, Nant Y Mynydd, There Is A Land, With A Voice Of Singing, Laudamus, My Love Is Like A Red, Red Rose, I'll Walk With God, Adiemus, Soldier's Chorus, Abide With Me, You Raise Me Up, Bridge Over Troubled Water, If I Fell, Let It Be Me, She, Take Me Home, The Rose, Love Changes Everything, Bring Him Home, Mame, The Impossible Dream, Bui-Doi, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, You'll Never Walk Alone, Jerusalem

Review: Blue Murder is a loose collective featuring members of the English folk group the Watersons,and has been around in various incarnations since the 1980's. 'No One Stands Alone' is a spirited and stalwart collection of American and English traditionals and hymns. Some of the vocal arrangements rely on strong vocal harmony throughout, while others have solo lead with backing vocals on the choruses. The five male and two female voices combine in a variety of textures, changing the mood from tune to tune. Some simple accompaniment. This CD is an infusion of good cheer!

Songlist: No One Stands Alone, Gown Of Green, Rubber Band, Blue Mountain, Standing On The Promises Of God, Banks Of Sweet Primroses (The), Land Where You Never Grow Old (The), Three Day Millionaire, Adieu Sweet Lovely Nancy, Bully In the Alley, Mole In A Hole

Review: A motley crew brings us this collection of sea shanties and ballads, 'motley' meaning 'of many colors,' which describes both the group and their songs. They are Tom McHenry, K.C. King, Bob Hitchcock, Jonathan Eberhart and Dave Diamond, who share a love of singing and the sea. There is a strong folk feeling to this CD, as most sea shanties are working songs, and there's the occasional light guitar or banjo accompaniment. Some of our favorites are: 'The Alabama,' 'The Seaman's Hymn & Eternal Father,' 'Dead Horse,' 'Truxton's Victory,' 'The Sailor's Alphabet,' and 'Shallow Brown.' Well-researched, authentic songs of the sea, vibrantly performed.

Songlist: Bristol Channel Jamboree, Haul Awa', Otho's Song, The Alabama, The Cruiser Baltimore, The Hogeye Man, Solid Fas', The Seaman's Hymn & Eternal Father, Come Down, You Roses, Dead Horse, Johnson Girls, Truxton's Victory, The Sailor's Alphabet, The Shanghaied Dredger, Shallow Brown, The Farewell Shanty

Review: After a singing 'voyage' of over twenty years, sea chantey-singing male quartet (originally a quintet) The Boarding Party, Jonathan, Bob, K.C. and Tom have come ashore to treat us to a 17-song collection of their authentic, testosterone-soaked songs of the sea. A couple of the chanteys, like 'Comin' Down The C&O,' 'Hudson River Steamboat' and 'The Old Peacock,' are lightly, and nicely accompanied by guitar, harmonica and banjo. Some of our favorites are the poignant 'Tommy's Gone to Hilo,' 'Let The Bullgine Run,' 'Mauling Live Oak,' 'Come Along Down,' 'Starbuck's Complaint,' 'Randy Dandy O,' 'C'est L'Aviron,' 'Saltpetre Shanty,' 'One More Day,' 'Lowlands Away' and 'Survivor Leave.' These are rare and wonderful, authentic songs, some of which would have 'died in the Folk archives' if the group hadn't discovered them and created music for them. We enjoyed every minute of 'Fair Winds and a Following Sea!' 

Songlist: Tommy's Gone to Hilo, The Old Peacock, Let the Bullgine Run, Mauling Live Oak, Soran Bushi, Hudson River Steamboat (Allison), Come Along Down, Go It, Jerry, Starbuck's Complaint (Boarding Party), Randy Dandy O, C'est L'Aviron, Coming Down the C & O (Eberhart), Saltpetre Shanty, Heise, All (Eberhart), One More Day, Lowlands Away, Survivor Leave (Stevens)

Review: It's been too many years, but now my favorite group of singers/scholars/rowdies has rewarded our patience with another collection of water-songs. And a collection of great variety, too: favorite old chanteys, nautical gospel songs, a couple of original songs, a cable-laying song, a Bengali rowing song, songs from the rivers, lakes and canals, as well as the oceans, high and low. Some are tongue-in-cheek, some just good roaring fun, but most ring with the great dignity of sincerity., Some of these songs would have died in the archives had not Bob and Jonathan made new tunes for them, and many would be lost to us forever without the work and interest of these men. They're scholars and historians, and their big robust voices lift these songs into our present very well.

Songlist: Ten Stone, Heave 'er Up and Bust 'er, Tanqueray Martini-o, Goodbye Old Ship of Mine, Song for the Challenger's Crew, Rosie, Sheep on the Deep, Drifting Too Far From Shore, The Ward Line, Atlantic Cable Line, Down The C and O, 100 Years on the Eastern Shore, Oray Sujon Naiya, Rolling Down to Old Maui, Solar Privateer, Farewell to Grog, Last Cigar

Review: We got a chance to experience Brass Farthing, 8 authentically-costumed, hard-drinking, sweet-harmonizing men, at the recent Harmony Sweeps Bay Area Regional. Raising their steins to us, they belted out classic drinking songs that one could expect to hear at a college fraternity rush party, getting many of us to join in! Most of these, like 'God Bless the Human Elbow,' 'Red is the Rose,' 'All Among the Barley,' 'Boozin',' 'Babylon is Fallen' and 'Bellman,' the heart-tugging (sort of ) tale of a beloved hound dog, are traditional tunes. 'Another Irish Drinking Song' was written and composed by Da Vinci's Notebook's Paul Sabourin, 'She Was Golden' was written by Brass Farthing's Daniel I. Briggs, 'Glorious Beer' by Steve Leggett & Will Godwin' and 'Eat Bertha's Mussels' by John Roberts. There are 10 authentically hammered, very funny tunes here, with arrangements by the group. This is good old, testosterone-soaked material, the stuff of sea shanties, or sung in a drinking sessions in the cabin of a fishing boat while a 20-foot mechanical shark cruises the dark waters outside. Also, don't miss an opportunity to see BF live!

Songlist: God Bless the Human Elbow, Glorious Beer, Babylon is Fallen, Red is the Rose, Another Irish Drinking Song, All Among the Barley, She Was Golden, Boozin', Bellman, Eat Bertha's Mussels

Review: All male a cappella octet Brass Farthing, 'a group of stalwart lads brought together to sing songs, raise good cheer, and otherwise make merry in the company of friends both old and new.' We had the good fortune to catch the live show of these 8 authentically costumed and propped male vocalists at the 2011 Bay Area Harmony Sweeps Regionals in San Francisco's Palace of Fine Arts, where they easily won Audience Favorite and First Place, and have to say that these guys are amazing! Rory, Daniel, Chris, George (Director), Mark (Assistant Director) Jim, Tazz and Ben have found wonderful, hilarious, traditional English drinking songs like 'Itches in Me Britches,' 'Bass Ale,' 'Dido Bendigo,' 'General Taylor,' 'The Crayfish,' 'Barbed Wire,' the nearly bawdy, very funny 'Brasso,' 'Gamble Gold and Robin Hood' and 'Charlie Mopps.' They've also unearthed such gems as Fred W. Leigh's (1911) 'Mary Anne, She's After Me,' C. Frank Horn's 'Mrs. Fogarty's Christmas Cake,' Paddy Ryan's (1938) 'The Man That Waters the Worker's Beer' and Peter Bellamy's 'Oak, Ash and Thorn,' with lyrics by Rudyard Kipling. The boys have written a couple of their own: Daniel's 'The Rope' and Rory's 'I Love You More than Beer.'

Songlist: Itches in McBritches, Bass Ale, Dido Bendigo, General Taylor, The Crayfish, Mary Anne She's After Me, Barbed Wire, Miss Fogarty's Christmas Cake, The Rope, The Man That Waters the Workers Beer, Brasso, Gamble Gold and Robin Hood, I Love You More Than Beer, Oak Ash and Thorn, Charlie Mopps

Review: An old Balkan proverb goes, 'There are no limits to a song.' 'Balkan Passions' combines the talents of 20-woman Angelite and their conductor Georgi Petkov with guest musicians Maria Farantouri of Greece, percussionist Okay Temiz and pop star Sezen Aksu, both from Turkey, and Romanian brass band Fanfare Ciocarlia to create a powerful recording that touches and effects us across international boundaries. 'Sadba' (Our Destiny), the driving 'Damba,' the rhythmic dance tune 'Dilele,' the joyous 'Mi ideme preko pole' (We Are Coming Across the Field,' the Albanian folk song 'I Went to Elbasan,' 'Makedonsko devoiche' (A Macedonian Girl), 'Devoiche belo, tsurveno' (Hey, You Girl, All White and Red), 'Krai rekata' (by the river) and 'Sasedi' (in the neighborhood) are particularly fine. All songs are accompanied; most only lightly. Beautiful, full-color liner notes tell us about the groups and the music. 'Balkan Passions' is excellent - a spirited, romantic collection of music from another world.

Songlist: Sadba, Damba, Dilele, Mi ideme preko pole, Barisha, barisha, I Went to Elbasan, Vila sei gora, Bulgarian Pastorale, Jenala e Dyulber Jana, Makedonsko devoiche, Devoiche belo, tsurveno, Povdigni si milo libe, Vassilke, mlada nevesto, Zemiata na Orfei, An Ohrid Legen about Bilyana, Bouzuki taqsim, Krai rekata, Sasedi

Review: The much beloved Bulgarian Voices Angelite is a 19-strong, beautifully and authentically costumed women's World/Folk choir, which has performed practically everywhere in Europe. They have a new conductor for 'The Pop Album,' Ivan Topalov, and he takes the choir into new realms, of accompanied music, in this exploration of the common ground between generations. The group crosses over from Folk music to modern music, from the Orient to the Occident, pop song to disco, cryptic music to the computer. Some favorites are the funny (we assume, most of the lyrics are in Bulgarian), manic opening cut, 'Pippero,' the Folk masterpiece 'Devoiko,' the soaring, techno-pop tune 'Jana,' 'Guns and Paprika,' 'Sofia Sound Machine,' and the manic 'Plodiv,' All songs lightly to heavily accompanied. Good stuff!

Songlist: Pippero, Bulgarian Rhapsody, Devoika, The Voyage, Jana, Guns and Paprica, Dancing to the Bagpipe, Sofia Sound Machine, The Balcanic, Plovdiv, Pippero

Review: When Bulgarians, at the end of the 20th century, look back to find their national history, they saw the Bulgarian orthodox church with its canonic ritual and religious traditions that few people had access to under the socialist regime in Bulgaria. 'Mercy for the Living,' for a 'man's voice and a women's Folk Choir, places us in a seat in the early church, with beautiful music from the orthodox services, beginning with the lovely 'Great Litany,' 'Rejoice, Mother of God,' 'Great Song of Praise,' and 'Is It Honorable.' The four final pieces, 'Small Litany,' 'The Mystical Sacrifice, 'Holy God,' and 'Our Father,' are all very fine. Throughout, however, the sound is that of angels in this rarely-heard collection of Bulgarian orthodox church music. Beautiful and touching.

Songlist: Great Litany, Rejoice, Mother of God, Unto Thee We Sing, Kyrie Eleison, Great Song of Peace, It Is Honourable, Praise The Name of the Lord, Lord, Have Mercy, Blessed Be the Lord, Small Litany, The Mystical Sacrifice, Holy God, Our Father

Review: Bulgaria is a musical empire of ancient times. This unknown style of female vocal singing is finally receiving the recognition it deserves after years of isolation. Demonstrating mastery in advanced harmony and developed breath control, these women will amaze you with tonality and resonance that suggests a deeper look into the oppression and humanity of this mystical land of the Rhodope Mountains. 'There is a clarion purity to their singing which continues to express timeless sentiments of the human condition.' Created by contemporary classic composers the music is rich with traditional melodies yet complex in harmony and texture, using the distinctive vocal timbres and techniques indigenous to Bulgaria. This is a fascinating introduction to a musical legacy.

Songlist: Nov Den, Polegnala e Toudora, Pilentze Pee, Kalimanko Denko, Triptih, Utopia, Begala e Vena, Mechmetio, Sestro Dobriano, Jano, Hubavo Jano, Trista Pushki, Zavesata Pada

Review: The 19-strong Bulgarian Voices combine with two smaller instrumental groups, the Moscow Art Trio and Huun-Huur-Tu to create an authentic, eclectic collection of folk tunes that explore the similarities and differences between Russian, Bulgarian and Tuvan folk music. The 28 musicians create a surprising, spirited, energetic, all-accompanied sound on 10 songs: 'Midnight Tale,' 'Sunrise,' 'Early Morning With My Horse,' 'New Skomorohi,' 'Sad Harvest,' 'Mountain Fairy-Tale,' 'Dancing Voices,' 'Grand Finale,' 'Epilog' and '300 Pushki.' Often the all-women Bulgarian Voices reminds us of Solstice, who did a great set recently at the Bay Area Sweeps Regionals. Particularly nice is 'Dancing Voices,' when the soprano and tenor solos soar above the rhythmic bass chanting, the sweet, sensual 'Epilog,' and the lovely lament, '300 Pushki,' the story of the death of a hero. Some great pix of the group(s) in the liner notes, in authentic costumes.

Songlist: Midnight Tale, Sunrise, Early Morning With My Horse, New Skomorohi, Sad Harvest, Mountain Fairy-Tale, Daning Voices, Grand Finale, Epilog, 300 Pushki

Review: Melody Rhythm & Harmony was recorded live by the Bulgarian Women's Choir during their 1993 tour in Norway. The songs presented here encompass the wide variety of styles from the various Bulgarian regions. Many of the arrangements include those of Philip Koutev, who was largely responsible for preserving the folk tradition. These songs are largely a cappella with a few accompanied by traditional Bulgarian instruments. The diverse history of the country has lent itself to produce music which requires great skill and feeling. And its rich culture continues to be preserved by this group.

Songlist: Polegnala e Toudora (Todora's dream) (Philip Koutev), Grozda Moma (Young Groda) (Dimitar Dinev), Dragana i slavei (Dragana and the nighingale) (Philip Koutev), Bre Ivane (Hey, Ivan) (Anastas Naumov), Jano, hubavo Jano, Listni se goro (Green Forrest) (Stefan Moutafchiev), Tapan bie (Beating the drum) (Zdravko Manalov), Kazhi, kazhi, Angio (Tell me, Angio) (Philip Koutev), S'gaida na horo (Dancing to the bagpipe) (Peter Lyondev), Ozdole Ide devoitche (A young maiden is arriving) (trad arr. Dimitar Dinev), Tin vjater vee (The wind is blowing) (trad. arr. Stehan Kanev), Sestro Dobriano (Sister Dobrjana) (Krassimir Kroumov), Tri biulbiui pejat (Three birds are singing), Dimjaninka (Philip Koutev), Pilentze pee (A bird is singing) (Krassimir Kyurkchiyski), Lale li si (Are you a tulip) (Philip Koutev), Kalugerine (The monk) (Nikolai Staikov), Mechmetio (Ivan Spasov), Dyulmano, dyulbero (Krassimir Kyurkchiyski), Kalimanko Denko (Godmother Denka) (Krassimir Kyurkchiyski), Polegnala e Toudora (Todora's dream) (Philip Koutev), Vetchera I Rado

Review: The hearty harmonies of Cockersdale are the accompaniment to war, hard labor, precarious journeys, and the struggle to survive. Even when the subject matter is potentially grim, the settings can be hopeful; 'Left, Left, Right, Steady' is about a 'rear gunner... in the Spring of forty-four,' but the melody is anything but sad. Temporary pain relief can be found in 'Three Cheers For Booze,' before the mood turns melancholy - 'Hills of Mullaghbawn,' an Irish traditional, is a thinly veiled protest against occupation, and 'Raglan Road' is about love not meant to be. 'Cholera Camp' and 'Follow Me Home' are based on the poems of Rudyard Kipling, set to original music.

Songlist: Follow Me Home, Hills of Mullaghbawn, Jamie Foyers, Lost at 21, Three Cheers for Booze, Will Ye Go to Flanders, Cholera Camp, Raglan Road, St Aubin Sur Mer, Left, Left, Right, Steady, Race Against Time, Roll On the Day, Thames Lighterman, Farrow Song

Review: The folk music of England and its former colonies is a colorful patchwork of history, past and present. Not the least bit refined or pretentious, its primary elements are simple and fundamental, as is its style. These are tunes that anyone can sing or harmonize to, while hoisting a pitcher of ale. Many tell stories, such as 'Sykehouse Bridge,' about a company town and its industrial origins, or 'Barratt's Privateers,' about 'a broken man on a Halifax pier,' reminiscing about youthful adventures. The three members of Cockersdale, Val Marsden, John O'Hagan and Graham Pirt, arrange all of the songs, and have been featured as part of the BBC's 'Lateral History Programme.'

Songlist: Tree Song, Fit for Heroes, The Cuckoo, Poor Old Horse, Sykehouse Bridge, Ash and Oak, Anderson's Coast, Barratt's Privateers, Auld Fischer's Farewell to the Coquet, Us Poor Fellows, Long Long Road, Single Handed, Death Is Not the End, Tortoises Always Come Last, A Pilgrim's Way

Review: The five young women singers who call themselves Coco's Lunch have got rhythm, they've got music, and they've got that swing (the kind that it don't mean a thing if you ain't got it)! For the five years they've been together they've built a reputation as one of Australia's most outstanding and innovative a cappella groups. They weave earthy songs with driving (non-vocal) percussion (and there is your odd flute passage), drawing on the sounds of the world in a distinctly Australian way. 'Dressed' is Coco's third CD, following 'Invisible Rhythm' and 'Wally Wombat Shuffle.' The Songs (all written and/or composed by group members) are: 'Shine,' 'Thulele Mama Ya,' 'Nature's Vanishing Points,' 'All The Wild Wonders,' 'A Whole New Way,' 'Fly Away,' 'Shifting Time,' 'Sleepless,' 'Night Reserviert,' 'Unity' and 'Sister My Sister.' The words, all included on the nice-looking liner notes, are moving poems of freedom, love and wildness. 'Dressed' is a fun, refreshing, toe-tapper of a CD that satisfies on many levels!

Songlist: Shine, Thulele Mama Ya, Nature's Vanishing Points, All the Wild Wonders, A Whole New Way of Getting Dressed, Fly Away, Shifting Time, Sleepless, Nicht Reserviet, Unity, Sister My Sister

Review: Invisible Rhythm received an ARIA award nomination for best contemporary album. This highly successful recording by Coco's Lunch was a finalist in the Australian World Music Awards and was featured as World Music CD of the Week in the Sydney Morning Herald. Featuring the brilliant harmonies with sophisticated rhythms of these five skilled musicians and composers, Invisible Rhythm transcends cultural borders. Their songs are in variety of musical styles with lyrics that are earthy and spiritual. Although many of the songs were written be one person, it is obvious that the final product is the result of the closeness and compatibility of the group. Try the soulful 'Seven Sisters' or the improvised 'Goodnight.'

Songlist: Sing of This Time, Journey , Mio Caro, Invisible Rhythm, Seven Sisters, Sleepy Harp, In My Room, Mama Mo, Gubaveeny, Five, Goodnight

Review: Sebastopol, CA's beautiful, etheric trio brings us their third stunning, poetic work of art. We have seen Copper Wimmin live at the Harmony Sweeps Regionals and Summit, and heard their pure, intricately woven harmonies and powerful modern chants of peace, feminism and justice, dressed as copper-clad goddesses. This is where we heard the opening cut, 'Freon Blue,' a post-apocalyptic/current vision of LA, for the first time, and remarked on its accuracy. 11 songs, most of them surprisingly, albeit beautifully, accompanied by cello, violin, guitar, bass and Wurlitzer. Some favorites are 'Ink,' 'Kito,' '1/5 Water,' 'Oasis,' 'First Breath' and 'Kinder.' Colorful liner notes with all the lyrics are enclosed. 'The Right' is a treat for the eyes, the ears and particularly the mind!

Songlist: Freon Blue, Bleeding Rivers, Ink, Kito, Winters Bleak, 1/2 Water, Oasis, Mirrors, Love Song, First Breath, Kinder

Review: The sound of Georgian polyphony is sure to please those who enjoy sacred choral traditions. Multiple unaccompanied voices blend together, weaving counter-melodies to create an awe-inspiring sound of sacred tradition. Georgian vocal polyphony is unlike any other vocal/choral music, Eastern or Western. There are many genres, both sacred and secular, and different styles in different regions. The selections of this CD are from the Kahetia region and are drawn from a large repertoire of ritual songs, carols, and traditional songs that abound in Georgia.

Songlist: Dianbego, Alilo, Garkakhuri Sachidao, Orovela, Shashvi Kakabi, Chakrulo, Zamtari, Shemozahili, Makruli, Tamar Kalo, Beri Katsi, Turpani Skhedan, Kakhuri Mravalzhamieri, Orovela (with Female Solo)

Review: Darach S Cathain said once, 'When you've music in you, you're hearing music always.' This recording enables us to have and hear the power and love of a singer who is known as a giant figure in Irish traditional singing. His unaccompanied vocals, sung in Irish, are revered as examples of the finest and purest examples ever documented. Most of the songs in this recording he learned as a boy from his mother who only sang at home or with friends. He was a poet born of poets and had been writing songs since he was twelve. A romantic, he fell in love at 19, raised his family by working as a farmer for twelve years before emigrating to Leeds where these recordings were made. Here is the real tradition!

Songlist: Tomas Ban Mac Aogain , Caoirigh Na Japs, Baile Ui Lai , Maire Ni Ghriofa, An Gabha Ceartan, An Beinnsin Luachra, An Sceilpin Draighneach, Caislean Ui Neill, Donnchadh Ban , Sail Óg Rua, Ta Na Paipeir Á Saighneail, An Caisideach Ban, Óro, Se Do Bheatha 'Bhaile!

Review: A musical journey through the Tongan islands containing authentic field recordings (1978-88). The album concludes with the astonishing new choral work Pacific Song: Chants from the Kingdom of Tonga - 'a work of musicological significance. David Fanshawe's Pacific Song is a model for how to make multicultural music accessible to everyone.' ACDA Choral Journal, USA.

Songlist: 'Ani lai 'a e , Welcome Song, Ma'ulu'ulu, Tau'olunga , Tongan Ceremonial, Sunday Morning in Taunga, Kava drinking song, Holonga Faikava, Hena Shark Calling / Makafeke Octopus Fishing, 'Utete mouth harps of 'Eua, Lakalaka Hihifo, Finesola, Me'etu'upaki, Faikava Kanokupolu, 'Old Timers' Dateline Hotel, The Nobleman Ve'ehala, 'Otuhaka opening, Oi inu i le'ava e, Muli tu pe, Hulo Hulo, Malua lau fanga e, Io ae e e , Moenga ngongo tau fea, The Singing Reef

Review: Music of the Nile is the companion source album to African Sanctus. This album contains the pure, original African field recordings on their own, without the composed settings of the Latin Mass. Features some of the glorious ethnic music of Egypt, Sudan, Uganda and Kenya, recorded between 1969-75. Some of the most energetic and exciting recordings of African traditions including full versions of all the original ethnic music used in African Sanctus, from Uganda, Egypt, Sudan and Kenya. Bwala Dance, Call to Prayer, Cattle boy's song, Dingy Dingy dance, Song of lamentation, Ritual burial dance plus many more important African recordings both musical and environmental, of the authentic sounds of the great waterway - the river Nile.

Songlist: Welcome Bwala Dance, Muezzin Call To Prayer, River Of The Pharaohs, Egyptian Wedding Luxor, Water Well Song, Abu Simbel Temple, Prophet's Song, Islamic Prayer School, Camel Drivers' Songs, Reed Pipe & Grass Cutting Song, Darfur Courtship Dances, Four Men On A Prayer Mat, Zebaidir Song, Hadandua Love Song & Bells, Shilluk Coronation Fashoda, Paddle Steamer Of The Sudd, Frogs & Zande Song Of Flight, Tamboura Song Liri, Edongo Dance Arua, Kabalega Falls, Busoga Falls Fisherman, Teso Fisherman, Bowed Harp, Acholi Enanga, Dingi Dingi Dance, Rain Song Of Latigo Oteng, Bunyoro Xylophone Madinda, Royal Acholi Bwala Dance, Samia Rowing Chant, Song Of Lamentation, Song Of The River, Karamoja Children's Song, Turkana Cattle Song, Masailand Milking Song, Luo Ritual Burial Dance, Aluar Horns

Review: If you wish to experience a wide cross-section of authentic Pacific island music - then this is it! This album presents highlights, personally selected by David Fanshawe the Pacific Collections. Represents many Pacific island nations, the Fanshawe Collection focuses on the rich variety of authentic music indigenous to Oceania;- traditional music of great beauty and contrast - - a musical source for us all to enjoy. Music from Cook Islands, Tonga, Western Samoa in Polynesia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu in Melanesia and Kiribati and Chuuk in Micronesia. Traditional chants, church singing, Bamboo and string bands, nose flute, love song, action dances and the wonderful voice of the legendary Aggie Grey in Western Samoa.

Songlist: Imenetuki Mangaia, Manihiki Action Song, Pukapuka Drum Dance, Romonum I, Wagi Brothers Bamboo Band, Rymoka Strind BAnd, Sepik Flutes Kanengara, Pan Pipes Of Buma, Pan Pipes Langa Langa Lagoon, Gilo Stones, Fenes String Band, Orchid Island Group, Lali Church Bell, Hymn Viseisei Church, Rukua Church Methodist Choir, Taralala Dance, Warwick Vocal Group, Vakamalolo Yaroi, Lakalaka Hihifo, Fiafia At Agie Grey's, Te Kamei Tewai, Te Kamei Batere, Romonum II, Fangufangu Nose Flute, Faikava Love Song, The Singing Reef, Reureu Drum Dance

Review: David Fanshawe presents important highlights from his monumental Pacific Collection, recorded over fourteen year (1978-92). The album focuses on the rich variety of authentic himene (hymns) indigenous to Tahiti, the Cook Islands, the Society Islands and others. The 44-page booklet provides extensive information about the music, transcriptions and translations of the lyrics and is richly illustrated with colour photos.

Songlist: Himene Tarava Point Venus, Himene Tauraatua , The Signing Reef , Imenetuki Mangaia, Imenetuki Oneroa, Imenetuki Aitutaki , Imenetuki Penrhyn, The Singing Reef 2, Himene Tarava Pirae, Himene Tarava Taunoa, The Singing Reef 3 , Legend of Maupiti , Himene Tarava Ucjg, Himene Tarava Betelehema, Himene Tarava Faaha, Himene Tarava Anau , Himene Tarava Vaitape , The Singing Reef 4 , Marae Arahurahu , Otea Te Maeva, Return to Point Venus , The Singing Reef 5

Review: Featuring music from Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands & Papua New Guinea. Recorded in the Pacific by David Fanshawe (1978-86) The final part of the Pacific Trilogy of albums features ancient chants, delightful hymns, pan pipes, Gilo stones, String Bands and some beautiful songs.

Songlist: Sepik Flutes Kanengara, Pan Pipes Of Buma, Club Dance, Meke Rara Nakelo, Meke Seasea, Vakalolo, Nabua Methodist Church Choir, New Year Celebration, Grog Song Lakeha, Singera String Band, Naghol Land Diving, Lifou Mouth Pipes, Spirit Song U'ula, Shell Money Making, Spirit Song Ia Ia Ia, Gilo Stones, The Awakening, Funeral Song, Karop Pipes, Yule Island Festivities, Mt. Hagen Singsing, Mendi Girls Chant Alipuli, Wagi Bros. Bamboo Band, Rymoka String Band, Karawari Initiation, Kamanibit, Timbunke Garamut Drums, Wundubu Bangu Ceremony, Kanengara War Dance, Bisorio House Building Kilao War Party, Singsing Bodif Headhunting, Waskuk Yam Harvesting, Misa Yaroma Wewak, Secret Place

Review: Chants, hymns, dances from Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk, Yap and Palau. Recorded in Micronesia by David Fanshawe. The second in our trilogy of albums compiled from the Fanshawe Pacific Collections, stick dances, Star Path navigating chants, marching songs and historical chants from the Republic of Palau. An important and fascinating musical document. Great booklet, lots of text & photos.

Songlist: Te Kamei - Standing Dance, Te Kamei Batere, Tibwereri, Te Katake Chant, Te Bino - Sitting Dance, Te Orobaoki - Strike The Box, Te Karuo - Love Song, Toddy Cutting Songs, Te Kawawa / Te KAmei, Aeroplane Song, Morning Star Choir, Presentation Of Food, Jebua Stick Dance, "Beet", Sunday Morning Service, Micro Palm, Seamen's Dance, Kepia / Dokia - Stick Dance, Ordination Song, Navigators Of Pulusuk, Death Of Titilap, Conche / Outrigger / Storm, Puluwat Hymn, Navigators Of Puluwat, Men's Standing Dance, Launching A Canoe, Dances Of Satawal, Songs Of Lamotrek, Song For Sick People, Star-Path Chant, Cradle Song, Night Revelry, Ulithi Sailing Chant, Chants And Dances Of Yap, "Wul" Bird, Palauan Chant, Birds Of Helen Reef

Review: Traditional chants, dances & other music from Rapa Iti, Fiji, Hawaii, New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa, Tokelau, Niue, Nauru, Tuvalu, Marquesas, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Cooks and Easter Island. A comprehensive and fascinating anthology of the exciting drum dances, hulas and awe inspiring chants of the Polynesian islands. 38 tracks. 'It's all suffused with a great sense of exuberance and excitement.' Includes great booklet with lots of text & photos.

Songlist: Aitutaki Drum Dance, Himene Tarvava, Poipoi - Tara Pounding, Song Of Papa Teora, Himene Ruau, Bird Dance Hula, Haka Maori Welcome, Song Of Papa Kiko, Kai Kai Of Mama, Hoko War Dance, Meke Wesi Spear Dance, Tau A Alo, FanguFangu Nose Flute, Faikava Love Song, Cheifs And Orators Sasa, Tagi Lillaby, Tawhoe - Oar Dance, Copra Bugle Call, Mokaone's Harmonica, Song Of Anili, Frigate Bird Dance, Funafuti Chorus, Tuvalu, Imenetuki - Gospel Chant, Mire Of emamaki, Ute - Cutting Nuts, Tapa Cloth Beating, Palmerston Shanties, Imenetuki, Mako Of Mama Lultangi, Canoe Racing & Wrestling, Children's Games, Akaatikatika Drum Dance, Mako Chant, Himene Tarava, Himene Nota, Otea Drum Dance

Review: Dis Moi (Dees Mwah) is French for 'Tell Me,' and we were touched by this all woman trio's performance at the 2005 Harmony Sweeps Regional at SF's Palace of Fine Arts. There is a wealth of original material by group members in these 15 tunes: the poetic 'Birds,' 'Solstice Reverie' and 'Between Us' by Samantha, 'Lumin Solare Fiat,' 'Memoria de Amor,' 'Flame,' 'Real' 'Mariah's Song' and 'Now is the Time' by Heather, 'In Depth' and 'Together' by Tamar, and 'River Song' by Samantha and Heather. The Middle East folk song 'Ana Tumba' and the Nigerian rite of passage song 'Samagwaza' are also very strong. These are powerful, thought-provoking songs of peace, freedom, justice and love from the sweet, honest voices of these three beautiful, talented women.

Songlist: Solstice Reverie, Flame, Real, Together, Oj Djevojko Moja, Between Us, Mariah's Song, Ana Tumba, Now is the Time, Samagwaza

Review: A thrilling project, it has an interesting story behind it. Pokrovsky's group is referred to here as a 'living laboratory' -- a hub of musicians and scientists who tested their theories about the dynamics of village life by touring outlying towns in the Russian countryside. A portion of the entrancing vocal polyphony they picked up is enthusiastically performed here, without a hint of academic reserve. Robust men's choirs are followed by equally gutsy female solos, interspersed with small vocal groups and a raucous mixed chorus ends this all-too-brief treasure chest on a high note

Songlist: Mosquito, Oak Forest, Slow Kaluki, Pine Tree, Porushka, Lullaby, Geese Fly, Fasst Kaluki, Sadko, Where Have You Been, Three Sisters, On The Street

Review: The five men who call themselves Eddies were a book club before they became a singing group. They live on St. Paul, MN's famous West Side, on the banks of the Mississippi River. 'Eddies' are whirlpools or currents that run contrary to the mainstream, which describes these five male voices, who sing testosterone-soaked sea shanties and traditional sailing songs, often a cappella and occasionally with instrumental backup of acoustic guitar, accordion and mandola. They choose music that is 'well enough know that we actually remembered it and thought we could make it sound good.' There are 16 songs here, our favorites include the a cappella 'Fire Down Below,' 'Blow the Man Down,' the drinking songs 'Roll The Old Chariots' 'All For Me Grog' and 'Whiskey Johnny,' 'South Australia,' 'Cape Cod Girls,' 'Bully in the Alley,' 'Rolling Down To Old Maui,' 'Haul Away Joe,' 'Roll The Woodpile Down,' 'Boney Was A Warrior,' 'Fire Marengo,' the slightly racy 'A Rovin' and 'Bold Riley-O.' A number of these authentic, fascinating songs are new to us, and it is all the more enjoyable to hear them for the first time. 'Hold Fast' is a well-crafted, spirited collection from a group that is always fun, in their live performances and on all cuts of this debut recording.

Songlist: Fire Down Below, Blow The Man Down, Roll The Old Chariots, South Australia, Cape Cod Girls, Bully In The Alley, Whiskey Johnny, Mingulay Boat Song, Rollin' Down The Old Maui, Haul Away Joe, Roll The Woodpile Down, All For Me Grog, Boney Was A Warrior, Fire Merengo, Bold Riley-O,

Review: 'Sind'' is the second album of Apulia's (Southern Italy) Faraualla, and is the 'organic development of it, a real chapter two,' as described in the liner notes. A photo of the group shows a total of seven musicians now, 5 women singers and two male percussionists; not surprising with the emphasis on strong percussion in the group's first recording. This emphasis is even greater on 'Sind'. Gabriella Schiavone once again has written most of the group's original material, including 'Domina De Miseria,' 'Arecuriurie,' a co-writer on 'Uarandero,' 'Masciare' the joyous 'Orangutan' and the rhythmic 'Maat Dance,' the title tune and 'Ninnage.' Schiavone also arranged the Russian folk-flavored 'Popoff.' The album finishes strongly with the traditional Albanian song 'Viktori' and a remixed, throbbing 'Masciare Witch Mix.' Faraualla impresses us again with another energetic, rhythmic winner!

Songlist: Domina, Arecuriurie, Uarandero, Masciare, Sind', Popoff, Ninnage, Maat Dance, Orangutan, Viktori, Masciare With Mix

Review: The name of this New Hampshire women's septet literally translates 'woman, my friend.' From soaring harmonies to full voiced choral arrangements, they choose to share a woman's view of the world. The diversity of material is wonderful. Of the original songs, our favorite is 'Sea Glass' which is a glorious piece of music and a marvelous metaphorical view of the possibilities of life. In feel, it is a modern classical composition. You will find a madrigal ('Amaryllis' Lament) about menopause! It's hysterical. A couple of Linda Hirschhorn's rounds are presented. One of our favorite songs of hope was written by Fred Small, 'Everything Possible,' It is treated with a simple elegance. A wider cultural excursion into the world of the spirit is the arrangement of the traditional Sanskrit chant, 'Om Namo Bagavatae' which is sung in a harmonic complexity of unsurpassed beauty. Live free or die!

Songlist: When I Hear Music, Don't I Deserve, Miriam's Slow Snake Dance, Gabi Gabi, Johnny, I Have A Million Nightingales, Sea Glass, Amaryllis' Lament, Everything Possible, No More Silence, Touching, Fiddler's Hymn, Om Namo Bagavatae, Good Mothers, Yonder Come Day

Review: Fifteen most traditional songs, many sung in this Canadian trio's folk a cappella harmonies. Includes 'Bright Shining Morning,' 'Shepherd of the Downs,' 'Sweet Forget-Me-Not,' an a cappella arrangement of Bob Dylan's 'The Times They Are A-Changin',' plus a great version of Carole King's 'Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.'

Songlist: Bright Shining Morning, Fair Maid Walking, At the End of A Long Lonely Day, The Ten Dollar Bill, The Maple Leaf Forever, As I Roved Out, Jack the Jolly Tar, Shepherd of the Downs, John Barleycorn, Sweet Forget-Me-Not, Shepherds Arise, Blackest Crow, The Painful Plough, The Times They Are A-Changin', Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow

Review: The North Carolina-based a cappella quartet Fleur-de-Lisa, Sarah, Deborah, Andie and Sylvie, has been writing music based on poetry and poetic themes since 2008. The 20 ethereal songs in this collection, all written by Sarah Shunk and Sylvia Freeman, represent one complete life cycle, from its spring-like beginnings of the first flowers and budding romance all the way through to the winter of life. In the Spring/Summer group are 'Crocuses,' 'Fireflies,' 'Me and Frog,' 'White Feather' and 'Old Pond;' in Relationship Songs are 'Slowly,' 'She Reads Her Letter,' 'Early Spring,' 'A Thousand Half Loves,' 'Wild Rose,' 'Unworn Necklace,' 'Wild Lupine,' 'Rainy Season,' 'Slicing' and 'Sound of the Name;' and in Autumn/Winter are 'Dog's Day Off,' 'One Leaf,' 'One Moon,' 'Rumors' and 'Time to Go.' These are sometimes playful, sometimes poignant vocal poems that touch and move us, leaving us always wanting to hear more. Just beautiful!

Songlist: Crocuses, Fireflies, Me and Frog, White Feather, Old Pond, Slowly, She Reads Her Letter, Early Spring, A Thousand Half Loves, Wild Rose, Unworn Necklace, Wild Lupine, Rainy Season, Slicing, Sound of the Name, Dog's Day Off, One Leaf, One Moon, Rumors, Time to Go

Review: Sarah, Deborah, Andie and Sylvie of North Carolina-based Fleur-de-Lisa, have been writing music based on poetry since 2008. In 'Willow Songs' the poems are from the non-rhyming verse genre Haiku, a Japanese word meaning 'Light Verse,' which consists of one 5-syllable sentence, a 7-syllable one, and then a final 5-syllable sentence. There are 27 poems here, with names like 'atop the feeder,' 'credit card bills,' 'drifting,' 'family reunion,' 'summer rain,' 'sunny side up,' 'cicadas,' 'harborside mall,' 'so cold,' 'spinning tops,' 'summer gossip,' 'green green room,' 'willow tree,' 'butterfly face' and 'windows down;' all put to a cappella music by the group members. Each song is a little gem, a musical gift that makes us see and consider things through other eyes, and enjoy.

Songlist: kayak, atop the feeder, credit card bills, slow day, slow steady, beavers, drifting, family reunion, indigo bunting, summer rain, pick up, sunny side up, rooster, cicadas, harborside mall, commencement , Shiki, so cold, spinning tops, summer gossip , leaf to leaf, vintage airshow, resolution, great green room, willow tree, butterfly face , windows down