Laco Umbilico

The Portuguese empire has certainly left its mark. Brazil accounts for what seems like half the output of world music. Cape Verde is another musical hot spot. It has produced one internationally renowned singer and here comes another. Lucibela's voice is just as supple and sultry and more expressive than Cesaria Evora's. On this album she collaborates with two of her favorite singers – one from Algeria and one from Angola, making this truly a world gem

No FCC's; Favorite tracks: 1, 3, 6, 8, 12, 14 but all tracks are very good

*1—Chica di Nha Maninha – 3:55 – supple, limpid vocals in Portuguese with sweet island rhythm played on guitar and cavaquinho underneath; Cape Verdean genre called a “morna” somewhat like fado

2 – Sodadi Casa –3:51-- every lyric clearly sung, lovely strings and lively rhythm

*3—Sai Fora –3:32 – a different rhythm with syncopation, Sofiane Saidi from Algeria collaborates; catchy bandoneon-- conversation between Portuguese and Maghrebi Arabic

4—Dona Ana –4:14 – has that cool modulation that characterized Evora's songs; Bonga, from Angola introduces a scratchy voice quality that contrasts nicely with Lucibela's smoothness

5-- Stapora do Diabo – 3:39 – traditional with chorus

*6—Porto Nova Vila Crioula –4:09 – she caresses the lyrics with bossa nova type rhythm

7—Laco Umbilical –4:08-- another island rhythm a little reminiscent of slack key plus violins

*8 –Profilaxia –3:26 – quick dance rhythm again with crystal clear lyrics and great instrumentals

9—Mi E Dode Na Bo Cabo Verde –3:47-- quick tempo with chorus

10—Arku da Bedja-- 3:39-- slow violin intro, more contemplative

11—Novo Olhar –4:06 – pretty percussion beneath mellifluous lyrics

*12—Sant Anton –4:00-- composed by album producer-- cool French flavored accordion waltz with West African core

13—Violeiro –3:22-- especially well sung with bossa nova rhythm

*14—Ti Jon Poca –3:37-- evocative of Cesaria Evora