This strong debut from Senegalese singer
Cheikh Lô is a healthy hybrid of African and Cuban rhythms.
Lô's high, reedy vocals are immediately evocative of countryman
Youssou N'Dour -- no surprise since
N'Dour helms as producer. But the acoustic aesthetic here is warmer than
N'Dour's usual high-gloss pop. If you're looking for an album to turn winter to spring, darkness to light, this disc is a safe bet. ~ Tim Sheridan