“Smooth Africa” might be an alternate title for Putumayo’s latest compilation of music from the African continent. The hard-driving grooves of Afropop, soukous and juju music are de-emphasized in favor of gorgeous balladry built on lilting rhythms and lightly plucked string instruments. Benin’s Angelique Kidjo offers the previously unreleased “Sedjedo,” sung in the Fon language, a gem of call-and-response vocals, slinky guitar riffs and simmering percussion. Habib Koite’s popular “Baro,” translated as “The Chat,” is intimate and introspective, gaining much from the Malian singer/songwriter’s moody vocals and interlocking guitars. Also among the highlights are the commanding lead vocals, surging and falling chorus and glittering bamboo harp plucking of Madagascar-born Rajery’s “Misahotaka Ny Akama”; the airy, twisting Afro-Cuban grooves and tangy lead harmonies of “Bana,” from Congolese artists Faya Tess and Lokua Kanza; the entrancing, slowly turning “Tradicao,” from Cape Verdean singer Gabriela Mendes; and Ivory Coast performer Dobet Gnahore’s newly recorded “Palea,” sweet and hymnlike. A portion of the album’s proceeds will go to African charitable organizations. — Philip Booth
