Search - Stella Chiweshe :: Double Check

While it is rare for Shonen women to play the mbira (thumb piano) in Zimbabwe, the lack of competition or forerunners has not held Stella Chiweshe back. She is the grand dame of the instrument and a cultural ambassador of her country and its native music. This double disc album is split into two parts. The Classic Hits disc is a greatest-hits effort where electric guitar, trap drums, and other modern instruments accompany Chiweshe's playing and singing. The Trance Hits disc is filled with new recordings of ancient music rooted in call-and-response singing and repetitive percussion patterns that are designed to draw players and listeners into a trance. It's ironically symmetrical that the modern recordings of old tunes are matched with old recordings of modern tunes; but regardless of origin and era, there is a myriad of experiences conveyed on the 22 tracks here, making it an honest and inspired take on this legendary performer's life and culture. -- Tad Hendrickson