Volume 1: Sound Magic
Bodhranandkora? Talking drums and Uilleann pipes? Echoing ancient trade roots from a thousand years ago,Sound Magicreunites two seemingly disparate music traditions in a contemporary setting, reaching for a dance-oriented but spiritual hybrid that takes on a life of its own. Producer Simon Emmerson assembles some noteworthy artists including Ayub Ogada, Davy Spillane, Manu Katche, Caroline Lavelle, James McNally (of the Pogues), Iarla O Lionaird, and Masamba Diop to create evocative, clubby grooves that also incorporate samples and flavors from Armenia and the East. With its multilayered rich textures,Sound Magicgrafts cultural respect and urban hipness for the global village of the '90s.--Derek Rath