Search - FRATELLI MANCUSO, Antonio Marangolo :: Bella Maria

This is a challenging recording, both in its rough and ragged tone and in its mix of content. The bothers Lorenzo and Enzo Mancuso are from Sicily, but their music was sharpened by years as immigrants in England. Those years gave them exposure to many cultures from the Mediterranean, as well as a political viewpoint that subtly colors some of what you will hear on this recording. Using the devotional and folk music of Sicily as a starting point, the Mancusos and fellow traveler Antonio Marangolo merge their harsh vocal style with woodwinds, brass, strings, sax, accordion, and percussion in a soundscape as arid and yet as beautiful as the island. This is almost entirely mournful music, leaning heavily on religious themes in this strange and sometimes bittersweet tribute to the power of the Virgin Mary. This is a deep, richly layered recording that requires effort and rewards you for it. --Louis Gibson