Reviewed in Sounds From the Ground Up by Peter Manzi — Holiday 2006

Embalasasa
Samite
Artemis Records
212/433-1800, www.artemisrecords.com

The Ugandan vocalist Samite has likely had a harder life than most human beings.  It is hard to tell from the optimistic spirit of his new release Embalasasa, named for a beautifully colored but poisonous lizard indigenous to his home country.

The album’s songs are inspired by Ugandan folklore, the devastating AIDS epidemic, struggle, hope, civil war, and ultimately survival. The kalimba, or thumb piano, is both the skeleton and heartbeat of the music, adding a rhythmic and organic tap-your-toe quality (as best expressed in the track “Nawe Okiwulira”). Samite’s heartfelt voice is the soul of this work — it is warm, sad, expressive, and peaceful.

There are many great moments on this recording, making it a wonderful selection for in-store play. With pieces that highlight piano, flute, and guitar around warm and hooking melodies, Embalasasa should find a broad range of appeal. It is a must-have for any world music section.