Named for the traditional Jewish women's mikveh (ritual bath) -- the place of monthly immersion marking the cycles of women's lives, sexuality, and creativity -- this all-star Jewish women's ensemble was formed by Klezmatics violinist Alicia Svigals at the behest of the producers of Eve Ensler's Vagina Monologues. Engaging the experience and spirit of Jewish women, these 5 women combine rare historical and new Yiddish and English songs with ecstatic klezmer melodies. Among the topics are celebrations of fertility, a daughter's bas mitsveh, and forbidden love, to the terror spousal abuse, the quiet grief of miscarriage, and the spirit of Friday night table. One of the highlights is a fabulous cover of a Pennywhistler's song arranged by the great Ethel Raim.

Brody/Leverett/Parrott/Cooper/