Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/106392
driven "Tease" is a mythological journey unto itself, its poetry heard in every note and lyric throughout. (Palmetto Records) —Derek Beres BAllAkÉ sIssoko At peace Malian kora player Ballaké Sissoko jumped onto the global scene with the quiet depths of his 2009 collaboration with cellist Vincent Segal, Chamber Music. Since that time, the duo has toured the planet showcasing their unique combination. Segal returns as musical director of At Peace, which Sissoko calls not a return but a "continuation" of his previous work. While predominantly oriented around the effervescent bubbling of the kora, 12-string guitarist Moussa Diabaté and balafon player Fasséry Diabaté offer a sturdy foundation for the masterful kora player to wander across. Segal of course joins in, with another duet, "Kabou," and the album's most far-reaching number, a cover of Brazilian musician Luiz Gonzaga's "Asa Branca." As stunning as all Sissoko's collaborative efforts are, it is his solo work—"Maimouna," "Nalésonko" and "Kalanso"—in which we hear the weightless gravity of his penetrating performance. (Six Degrees Records) art & soul KIRTAN IN THE VALLEY —DB medItAtIve mAssAGe mUsIC Healing Instrumentals for peace & Quiet White Swan's compilation of Meditative Massage Music is a compilation to help you create a relaxing aural sanctuary. Luxuriate in magniicent stillness with this calming collection of music speciically selected for its tranquil, soothing nature. The 16 tracks in this collection relect the breadth and depth of deep relaxation, peace and quiet. The artists may come from diverse backgrounds, but they share a common objective: by creating music that in some way brightens your life, they hope to make the world a more peaceful place. You'll hear ambient dream sequences from Shaman's Dream; the subtle power of bowls, bells, gongs and tones, as envisioned by Renee S LeBeau and Damien Rose, and Mozart as adapted for yoga and string quartet by acclaimed cellist Dave Eggar. Manose's melliluous Himalayan bansuri lute, delightfully contrasted with the low, earthy tones of Gary Stroutsos' Asian and Native American woodwinds, blends perfectly with the acclaimed raga-based guitar stylings of Stevin McNamara. Along the way, Prem Joshua's trademark East/West Indo-jazz fusion adds just the right amount of spice to the expansive proceedings. Meditative Massage Music is not simply a compilation; it is a wordless guide leading you to your own inner oasis. (White Swan) —Lloyd Barde Enjoy the bliss of chanting and live music in the San Fernando Valley every other Sunday with some of the best artists in the worldwide kirtan community. Admission by donation. Check website for details. Sponsored in part by Whole Life Times The Meditation Center 5530 Donna Ave., Tarzana 91356 818.217.2700 www.kirtaninthevalley.com A&S.indd 33 February/March201333 1/25/13 6:29 PM