Angelique Kidjo: Eve

Angélique Kidjo, from Benin in west Africa, is a powerhouse: Grammy winner, Unicef ambassador, campaigner for women's rights. Kidjo's live shows are extraordinary tours-de-force, as anyone who was at her 2010 Dublin gig will testify – she almost physically stood every member of the audience up and made them dance. Her voice is a colossal instrument that likewise brooks no dissent, and on Eve Kidjo carries all before her with a cast of thousands. There are 10 choirs from Benin and Kenya, Lionel Loueke at her right hand, and appearances from Asa, Dr John, Bernie Worrell, Rostam Batmaglij and The Kronos Quartet. The album is dedicated to African womanhood and, while all that power and passion can get strident at times, the rhythmic propulsion and chorus hooklines carry it through. And you'd better dance – right?! 429records.com
Download: M'Bamba, Kulumbu, Kamoushou