Truth

Truth

Justin Rakotondrasoa (called Vali after his main instrument) is one of Madagascar's best-known players of the <i>valiha</i> (pronounced "va-lee"), a box harp played upright, with strings on both sides of the box. He is a master of the tradition but is also a lover of innovation and exploration. With Doudou Tovoarimino on guitar and vocals and Clemrass Randrianantoandro on <i>kabossy</i> (a mandolin-like stringed instrument), vocals, and percussion, the Justin Vali Trio is an exciting, all-acoustic ensemble that sounds deeply traditional while never sounding stiff or studied. On many tracks they are joined by Italian percussionist Carlo Rizzo, who adds a uniquely Mediterranean sound to the songs on which he appears. The album features wonderful Malagasy vocal pieces and dance tunes, and one track also showcases an ancient, stringless version of the <i>valiha</i>. Lots of folk heritage is sparked by a contemporary air on "The Trut." <I>--Louis Gibson</I>