Angelique Kidjo - Oyaya!

(Sony 2004)

Born in Benin, and of the Yoruba people, Kidjo has been known for being adventurous with her music. This album really shows that sense of adventure at its best. Inspired by a trip to Cuba, and the Caribbean in general, 'Oyaya!' is both a personal trip and a philosophical moment. Songs such as 'Bala Bala' (translated as 'the essence of things' in Fon) or 'Adje Dada' show what a well thought out album this is. This is what Kidjo does best - something new, something old, something borrowed, and something blue.

Reviewer : Chino Odimba