World music recorded during the first half of the 20th century, once etched onto wax cylinders and brittle 78s, has been diligently rescued and revived for presentation on this, the first volume from
The Secret Museum of Mankind
. This CD opens with a late '30s recording of an alluring yet laid back performance by a Nigerian choral, organ, and drum ensemble. An impressive Sardinian launeddas (triple read pipe) solo rendered by an experienced player comes next. Circular breathing and lightning fast chops highlight the Herculean nature of this master musician's effort. Other noteworthy tracks on this CD include a rare '20s recording of Japan's serene
Imperial Household Orchestra
, a performance by Hindustani musicians that feature melodic clusters of suspended bells, a 1924 recording of a trombonist's "Jewish Jazz" band, and a Vietnamese string and vocal ensemble's graceful rendition of
"Worthy Gem."
The superb musicianship and creative approaches displayed on these varied recordings makes this CD a must-have for any real "world music" fan. ~ John Vallier