Nowadays, world music seems to be the most creative genre with the most fevered cross-pollinization of musical styles.  And nowhere is that approach more evident and effective than on than on the latest release from the Angers, France-based band Lo’Jo.  (No, it has nothing to do with “Jenny from the Block.”)

            This sextet’s live disc is a splendid recording, capturing the group’s versatile musicianship, spirit and flawless execution.  The band features sisters Nadia and Yamina Nid El Mourid on vocals, percussion and saxes with chief songwriter/lead singer/keyboardist Denis Pean.  If listeners can get past Pean’s gruff Gallic, Serge Gainsbourg-cabaret vocal style, this disc is a world music treat with lyrics rendered in French, Spanish, English and Arabic.

            Impeccably recorded, the CD captured the band during a recent swing through its homeland.  Rousing, you-should-have-been-there performances show off Lo’Jo’s French musical orientation that’s liberally spiced with Arabic, Hindi, Latin, African, Gypsy, jazz, chamber music and pop-rock flavors.

            So, roll up the rug and get ready to do the tarantella, tango, pogo, cha-cha and polka.  Lo’Jo’s party celebrates the world.

—Eric Feber, The Pilot