Julia Sarr and Patrice Larose create an unusual type of fusion music: a blend of African song and flamenco guitar (with bits of jazz, Brazilian, etc.)

Sarr, a Senegalese French singer, and French guitarist Patrice Larose started at the top.  Their first important appearance was at Carnegie Hall.  The October 2005 concert was billed as “Youssou N’Dour Presents The Fresh Face of African Music.” At that time, Sarr and Larose had only played five shows together. N’Dour makes a guest appearance on the title track on the duo’s new album (on Sunnyside Records) “Set Luna,” which means “So I’ve Observed” in Wolof.

The two write all their songs and apparently Sarr is responsible for most of the lyrics, since they seem to represent her point of view.  The subjects are an immigrant’s nostalgia for her African homeland, a lullaby for sick children another to cheer up a depressed friend, a song for Sarr’s teenage son (whom she raised alone) and a piece about her hope of finding love. 

Their music is entrancing and Sarr’s voice is irresistible.  Sarr and Larose will appear at Makor on January 23 at 9p.m. and at Joe’s Pub on February 7 at 7:30p.m.