Search - Bonga :: Kaxexe

One could say that Kaxexe doesn't sound much different than Bonga's Angola 72, but that's not really a criticism: the latter is known to be one of the finest albums to ever come out of Africa. Yes, Bonga is in classic form here, showing that his hoarse growl still has a warm roughhewn quality that is both gentle and passionate. Not surprisingly, the voice is the focal point as his quartet (on acoustic guitar, accordion, bass, and drums) provides lilting acoustic support in slow to medium tempos. On the slow tunes, the singer really stretches out to allow listeners to luxuriate in his world-class pipes. But there are also upbeat tunes like the galloping "Samania" and the driving "Kiamangongo" that infuse the album with energy, proving that the group isn't above showing people how to have a good time. This is definitely a must for Bonga fans as well as those with a taste for fado and morna. --Tad Hendrickson