JUNE 15 2007

Manu Chao "Rainin In Paradize" (Online Only Single / France) Manu Chao was born to Spanish parents in Paris and has long used his cross-cultural surroundings and background as inspiration for his music. "Rainin In Paradize" is the first single from his much ancipated new release called "Radiolina" due for release in September.

Pharaoh's Daughter "Haran" (Oy Hoo Records / USA) This highly anticipated release lives every bit up to expectations, and then some. With help from producer Fred Rubens, the album showcases the band's signature innovative Middle Eastern sound with modern-day grit and attitude. This music is exquisite but edgy, authentic but contemporary, and absolutely infectious. This is World Music at its best--intricate and nuanced, but utterly accessible, blending swirling, syncopated seas of polyrhythm with beautiful, singable melodies. -AMAZON.COM

Kenge Kenge "Introducing..." (World Music Network / Kenya) Kenge Kenge symbolose all that is great about African traditional music: they are the guardians and masters of an ancient but moving tradition. They breath new life into Kenya's Luo musical roots, continuing its evolution, from the hand-made instruments of the past, through the popular guitar-based benga, and now returning to both re-explore the acoustic origins of benga and embrace their Luo musical heritage.

Dobet Gnahore "Na Afriki" (Cumbancha Records / Africa) Widely considered one of contemporary African music's most exciting new talents, Dobet Gnahore has astounded audiences with her thrilling stage presence, appealing melodies and powerful singing. Gnahore's striking new CD moves from delicate ballads to upbeat African grooves, and serves as a resounding introduction to this voice of the future. -AMAZON.COM

Sanjay Mishra "Chateau Benares" (Akar Music / USA) Forty decades after George Harrison first twanged a sitar, Indian crossover is still going strong. Sanjay Mishra said that growing up in India he tried to be like Harrison, and he's been doing that since his debut, Blue Incantations, 11 years ago. More than Harrison, Mishra follows in the tradition of John McLaughlin's influential east-west fusion group, Shakti. Mishra, however, mixes in more western elements, playing his fretless guitar in raga modes atop rhythms that are sometimes free alaps and other times minimal electronica grooves. -AMAZON.COM