After thrilling audiences worldwide for over 20 years with their dynamic stage presence (including women's music festivals), this dramatic, amazing trio of singing percussionists has finally released just as magnificent a debut release in 1998 -- crisp, exciting, and one of the finest releases we've added to our listings in years. Their use of different varieties of percussion instruments -- many hand-crafted by their leader, Madeleine Yayodele -- explodes the air with harmonious percussive beauty. Some of the repertoire is inspired by the ideals, stories, and history of this important African-American holiday, but this album clamors, and deserves, to be heard all through the year. With the exception of one track -- Lift Every Voice and Sing, featuring the Free Voices of Praise Choir -- every instrument and every vocal is performed by the 3 women of the trio, though you'll feel sure you are listening to a much larger ensemble. The group flows effortlessly from language to language on this trip through the African diaspora; you'll hear mbira (thumb piano), balafon (African marimba), steel-drum calypso, calabash rattles, and their harmonizing voices. Includes Nkosi Sikeleli Africa, the anthem of the African national Congress; Oshun Chant; Seven Principles, and more, with short informational narrations at the beginning of some selections. Highly recommended!