"Somaiko Somainao"

Madagascar's jaunty, driving salegy pop has never sounded better. Recorded in 2000, and at last being released in the U.S. in 2004, Jaojoby's fourth international release is plainly the band's best, both in terms of repertoire and production values. The boisterous opener "Somaiko Somaino" combines jangling, joyous electric guitar interplay, and a rootsy hand-clapping break that puts a distinct village flavor into a decidedly urban pop sound, all over as pumping a rhythm section as any Afropop band today can offer. From the start, the message is clear: this band is serious about celebration.

"Somaino" is a very appealing reworking of an old Malagasy folk song. "Alima" is a remake of a Jaojoby classic with an added South African flavor--an easy, soulful pace, and beautiful pennywhistle breaks. "Aza Arianaio" also has a soft, melancholy lope, with Eusèbe Jaojoby singing in his highest register over a gentle wash of electric and acoustic guitars. Also on the softer side, "Mangala Vajavy" offers an easy malesa salegy groove, the calmer side of 12/8 time. But most of these tracks are more like the lashing "Tokony Ataontsika," a ecstatic rhythm festival.

The guitar work, arranging, vocal harmony and overall sound on this album is all superb. But it's really the warm personal quality of this band's music--the tone being set by lead singer and composer Eusèbe Jaojoby himself--that seals the deal. Aza Arianao appears just in time for the band's first U.S. tour (see dates below). Snap it up quickly. You'll enjoy the show that much more. Also, you'll need to make room on the shelf for a brand new Jaojoby release, just completed, and due out later this summer.