Jaojoby, Malagasy (Discorama/Harmonia Mundi) (Madagascar)

On the international scene, the musicians of Jaojoby are kings of the super-charged, mostly 12/8, salegy dance pop genre from the north of Madagascar. If the grooves here seem a little more fast and lashing than in the past, and the guitar breaks a little more raucous and flashy, it may reflect competition from younger groups back home. Still, when it comes to the mature, polished sound of this living genre, it's hard to beat the soulful, sunny voice of Eusebe Jaojoby and his band. And they aren't above a romantic ballad either. --BE