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The polyphonic singing of Sardinia is one of those art forms that hits you like a lightning bolt the first time you hear it. You sit and ask, "What is that sound? How do they do it?" It is ancient (maybe dating back as far as 1,000 years), with a dependence on dark, not-quite minor-key harmonies and rich overtones. Key to the sound are the rough-hewn su basso and sa contra singers, whose guttural quality defines everything else about the music. That is countered by a crystal-clear third voice and a classic tenor lead vocalist. The blend is unique in the world of singing. It's an acquired taste for those who are used to simple harmonies and tight choral arrangements, but given a chance, the sound can be quite addictive. Although less known and hyped up than the Tenores di Bitti, Tenores de Oniferi are every bit their equal. --Louis Gibson