Mor Karbasi, “Daughter of The Spring” Le Chant du Monde/Harmonia Mundi (2011)
ALL TRACKS FCC CLEAN Reviewed by Abu Ramses

The 2nd album of Jerusalem-born singer-songwriter Mor Karbasi. Of mixed Moroccan-Persian heritage, she specializes in Ladino music – the language of the Jews of Spain before their expulsion in 1492, which they preserved in the Ottoman Empire, where they were welcomed. She also sings in Hebrew & European languages. Flamenco, Fado & the Arabic tradition are evident. Some Joan Baez too. Style is similar to Mariza & Yasmin Levy (lots of their CDs in the library). But her sound is softer & more delicate. She has lived in London & Seville with Joe Taylor, her guitar accompanist & partner. Many of the lyrics are by her mother, Shoshana Karbasi. Last 2 tracks show off her soprano voice beautifully.

Try 1, 2, 6, 11, 12

Tracks
1. La Hija de la Primavera (Daughter of Spring) – lilting Spanish ballad; guitar & piano backup - 4:35
2. Un Beso de Vida (A kiss of Life) – Upbeat, flamenco/bossa nova mix - 4:04
3. Yasmin (Jamine) – In Hebrew; soaring soprano; piano backup - 4:13
4. Niña de mi Alma (Child of my soul) – Typical of her style: soft, slow, acoustic guitar backup; electric & more energy towards the end - 3:00
5. Ay ke Buena – A capella with Arabic darbuka percussion & palmas - 2:08
6. Morenika Sos (Dark you are) – Haunting wail; electric guitar, new agey - 5:09
7. Dezile al mi Amor – high energy electric rock, Arabic percussion & palmas - 3:52
8. La Kantiga de la Madres (Mothers’ song) Delicate, pizzicato cello, piano - 2:59
9. Cuando Vuelvas (When you return) – slow acoustic guitar & voice - 3:23
10. Asentada en mi Ventana – a capella voice & palmas - 1:30
11. El Pastor (The shepherd) – Slow, guitar builds to ensemble crescendo - 4:46
12. Volveremos (Let’s return) – a Spanish style love ballad; guitar backup - 4:13
13. Arvoles (Trees cry for rain) – also a love ballad; piano backup – 3:57