M'Bilia Bel - Belissimo

M'bilia Bel came to fame as the female vocal foil of the great Tabu Ley Rochereau, rising to become the Queen of Congolese rhumba -- a justly deserved title. This solo album does nothing to diminish her reputation. While the heart of her sound is rooted in the Congo, as it should be, this offers something a little more modern in Souzy Kasseya's production, which has something of a widescreen quality. There's a little more hip-hop in the rhythm at times, and Bel herself has a looser rein to soar, which she takes at times, flying above the music. Read More