Customer Reviews

Ramano: Madagascar

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4 star:		(1)
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This is the CD that first interested me in the music of Madagascar. I have since found much more to appreciate about this diverse land and its people. The music has a folksy feel, the rhythms are tight, and the harmonies lush and beautiful. On first listening, I found intonation a little loose for my Western ears. Later, as I was drawn back again and again, it was hardly an issue. This is a "must" for anyone interested in exploring the richness of African music.

The group Feo-Gasy showcases some of the brightest talents in Malagasy music. Rakoto Frah was the greatest sodina (traditional end-blown flute) player in Madagascar. He passed away a very old man in 2001 and the country went into mourning for days. Eric Manana, who has been very successful as a solo artist, is a musical virtuoso and contributes his songwriting and voice in addition to the guitar he is so famous for. Everyone is in top form on this disc. This is highlands music, with a tendancy toward the mellow, and while it doesn't capture the energy possible in valiha music (such as Justin Vali's Ny Marina album), it is nuanced, beautiful and unique. Well worth a listen

To help you awaken to the complex simplicity of music from Madagascar, I recommend the David Lindley & David Kaiser CD: "A World Out Of Time" and any of its sequels and spin-offs. You'll be glad you listened.