Soul Makassar

Theirs is the music of Madagascar, the island that is home to a melting pot of traditions, some of them previously explored by the likes of Ry Cooder and David Lindley.

This album takes as its broad theme the connection between the home place and Indonesia, and is one of the most successful fusions that I've heard in many a long day, characterised as it is by a sense of joy and of . . . pure belonging.

This is music with rays of sunshine percolating its every pore, songs about sharing - 'Kingsong' - mixing with those about wifestealing - 'Baraka', the latter performed in a western swing style.

Consumerism, and its negative effects, are explored in 'Aretina', the whole kit and caboodle crowned by Hanitra's stunning voice.

This is music about ordinary mortals, made in heaven, and lit by the stars.

Beautiful.