On The Edge Of The Ituri Forest Northeastern Belgian Congo CD (Various Artists)

On The Edge Of The Ituri Forest Northeastern Belgian Congo On the Edge of the Ituri Forest Northeastern Belgian Congo, 26 selections from Hugh Traceys numerous recordings of the Bundu, Mangbele, Nande, Mbuti, and Bira peoples are presented. Originally collected in 1952, these field recordings were made in villages located around the eastern and northeastern boundaries of the Congo, close to the edge of the immense Ituri rain forest. On this CD one can hear Pygmies playing on a variety instruments that were stored for them by the sedentary Nande, Budu musicians performing a party songs on conical drums covered with elephant ear drum heads, the sound of flute encased in a shriveled up pigs tail, and a Mangbele percussion ensembles call for circumcision. Though Hugh Traceys inclination to at times conduct the performers he was recording gives his work less ethnographic and ethnomusicological authority, his detailed documentation of the performances should win him commendation. The detailed booklet that accompanies the CD is liberally peppered with vivid descriptions, photos, and many names of the performers. Stunning performances of exceptional audio quality to be heard by many around the world. John Vallier, All Music Guide Artist Various Artists Studio Sharp Wood Format CD