Au Cabaret Sauvage—in the wild cabaret, indeed. This hardy troupe, founded by Denis Péan, has the verve of Gypsy buskers and a collective musical appetite that feasts on everything the world has to offer. Au Cabaret Sauvage takes the listener to a place where just about anything can happen and underlines this musical excitement with Péan’s intriguing lyrics. Witness “L’une des Siens”: “I am one of the characters in the handwriting of a woman/An echo of her voice/One of hers.” Employing a huge variety of musical instruments to create its distinctive vibe, Lo-Jo has the power to mesmerize and delight with every tune. Imzad (one-stringed violin), panniers (percussion instrument), and bendir (round-framed drum) weave their spell on “Petit Homme.” Members of the Touareg band Tinariwen bring their magic to “Le ‘Poème de Japonais.” This is one of the great world releases of 2002. Distributed by Harmonia Mundi.—PVV