In this lively album dedicated to “the women of Africa” and “to their resilience and beauty,” West African pop star and UNICEF ambassador Angélique Kidjo sings with women’s choirs, chiefly from her native Benin. Traditional call and response patterns are enlivened by an energetic band, with special appearances from such artists as pianist Dr. John, the Kronos Quartet, and the Nigerian singer Asa. Kidjo sings here exclusively in Beninese languages, but her soaring voice crosses all boundaries. (429 Records)
