Ghana music reviews

Obo Addy is Ghana's musical ambassador. He has shared the rich musical traditions of his native country with Americans much the same way Babatunde Olatunji did with the music of Nigeria. Addy's recordings are eclectic, ranging from afropop to traditional and in this case, new age. "New age" can mean so many things nowadays and "the Rhythm of Which a Chief Walks Gracefully" is new age music of substance rooted in traditional music with hand drums, flutes and the balaphone. A featured instrument is the famed talking drum or Dondo as it is know in Ghana. The recording is a musical tour through Ghana and the songs are named after many of the country's most picturesque places. In "Shores of Elmina," one can almost see the seagulls flying over the old castle. "Evening at Kaneshie Market" paints a picture of one of the nation's busiest and largest markets. As background music, the disc creates a relaxing and spiritual atmosphere. This reverb soaked disc always makes for an enjoyable listen.