Mouth Music
Here's where world fusion really begins, with the marriage of Scots tunes (most notably in thepuirt-a-beul--mouth-music--tradition, which gives the band its name), African percussion, and dance beats. Instrumentalist Martin Swan and singerTalitha MacKenziemake a formidable and imaginative team, taking songs to places you've never dreamed of, all underpinned by a very fat 303 bass. While it all makes for great listening, "Seinn O!" is a true standout, as is "Chi Mi Na Morbheanna," with beautiful fiddle byMartyn Bennett. Out of this record comes the inspiration forAfro Celt Sound System,Transglobal Underground, and a host of other bands, but the album is more than a precursor. It's a joyous event in itself whose ideas and music still stand tall, with MacKenzie in particular emerging as a real star. Essential.--Chris Nickson