Eclipse

LURA: Eclipse
Lusafrica, 2009

PORTUGAL / CAPE VERDE – Lisbon-born singer gets back to her roots with a lively acoustic session, blending strains of African rhythm and island dreaminess, folk-pop and jazz, optimism and heartbreak. Her voice is strong and warm, the music sumptuous and welcoming. And check out the wondrously poetic lyrics, translated in the booklet. Nice!

* * * * | Fo’s Picks: 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 14

1. 4:25 – upbeat: deliciously buoyant groove: direct vox like rays of sunshine
2. 4:25 – midtempo: gentle island ballad with harmonica, sweet backing vocals
3. 4:22 – cool percussive pulse, near-monotone, touch of Brazil & farm sounds
4. 5:36 – traditional Cape Verdean ballad, rich & emotional à la Cesaria Evora
5. 3:54 – slow, aching melody stretched over a gentle bounce, changes at end
6. 3:50 – bright afro-pop bounce, tricky vocals ride the rapids, sparkling guitars
7. 4:39 – relaxed vocals, stark against shimmering patterns; taunting ending
8. 4:02 – jazzy pop song, bigger sound: strong soulful vocals, horn section
9. 4:27 – quick pulse with accordion, great vocal and nifty rhythms
10. 4:26 – ballad: relaxed backing, slow, lingering vocal drips like honey
11. 3:49 – uptempo island rhythm: vocals chop, roll and soar
12. 4:12 – upbeat island-jazz feel, rich guitar carpet, soprano sax accents
13. 3:27 – sweet, sunny and flirty folk-pop, cute backing vocals
14. 5:49 – slow, nostalgic tango with dreamy electronics/effects… lush!

[ Fo ] 07/12/09