Various Artists: (Nascente)
Subtitled "20 years of essential folk, roots and world music", this double CD and its companion (see below) are invariably short on comprehensiveness but long on entertainment, especially the argumentative kind. Even with over 160 minutes of music, this collection, which deals with music from Britain, Ireland and North America, could be criticised more for what is not there than for what is. That, of course, is the nature of compilations, even those compiled by such luminaries as Folks Roots editor Ian Anderson. But Irish acts certainly get little play, with only Altan, The Pogues, Alias Ron Kavana, Afro Celt Sound System and Elvis Costello getting a look in. Chauvinism aside, the selections from the likes of Taj Mahal and Ry Cooder are a little obvious, though there is much that will be new to many ears.
By Joe Breen
Various Artists: (Nascente)
The companion compilation to Roots (see above) is more challenging and interesting, if only because much of the music is new, at least to these ears. As compiler Ian Anderson states in the informative sleeve notes, both of these collections are not definitive genre samplers: "If they send you scurrying off to hunt down more recordings by an artist you'd never heard, thought you didn't like or forgotten was so good, they've achieved Anderson's First Aim of Compilations." He can rest assured. This broad sweep of music from Africa, Europe, Asia and the rest of the world contains enough gems to brighten up any collection. Take your pick from Ali Farka Toure, Buena Vista Social Club, Maryam Mursal or any of the lesser known acts. Best of all, both double-CD collections are budget priced at £16.99.
By Joe Breen
More CD reviews in tomorrow's Weekend supplement
