The Alluring Finnish Kantele
The kantele is a traditional Finnish musical instrument that belongs to the family of string instruments known as zithers. Specifically, zithers are characterized by a…
Alexandre Elias Presents a Familiar Yet Adventure-Seeking Bossa Nova
“Wave” is at once familiar and adventure-seeking bossa nova by Alexandre Elias, a Brazilian who knows how it should go.
Omara Portuondo’s “Vida” Secures Latin Grammy Award 2023
In a remarkable turn of events, Omara Portuondo, who recently returned to her cherished Cuba for a much-needed vacation, has been honored with the prestigious…
Guillo Espel Cuarteto Crafts Songs that Transcend Boundaries
Guillo Espel Cuarteto – Souvenir (Guillo Espel Cuarteto, 2022) Souvenir is the fifth album by the Guillo Espel Quartet, marking a pivotal milestone in Espel’s…
Kennya Macedo, a Lifelong Explorer of Black Brazilian Music
Kennya Macedo is a singer with over 30 years in music. She has been and is part of several projects such as the Orchestra Paulista…
Switzerland’s Celestial Ground Reveals ‘Zeitgeist’
Switzerland’s Celestial Ground has a fairly unusual but engrossing piece called “Zeitgeist,” built mainly around the sounds of a metal tongue drum.
Uruna Redefines Cantabrian Folk Music with ‘El Primeru’
Uruna – El Primeru (self-release, 2023) Spanish folk music ensemble Uruna recently released their debut album titled El Primeru (The First One). This recording skillfully…
Ghatam: The Enchanting Clay Pot that Shapes Indian Rhythms
The ghatam is a narrow-mouthed earthenware water pot percussion instrument that is widely used in Indian music, particularly in the Carnatic music tradition of South…
American Artist, African Soul: Yemi Love Soars in ‘Only You (Abouboku)’
She’s an American, but Yemi Love comes across like a true African songbird on “Only You (Abouboku).” Infectious despite being a bit too short.
Seattle’s Balkan Fusionists Kultur Shock s Unleash ‘Acoustic Live’ Album
Kultur Shock — Acoustic Live (Old Age Recording Co., 2023) Seattle’s Kultur Shock, a popular band known for their eclectic fusion of Balkan melodies, punk…