Post #465725 by White Devil on Tue, Jun 30, 2009 8:54 AM

Two noteworthy modern acts that will fit nicely in between your Haole Kats and Yma Sumac spins. Toumani Diabate's "The Mande Variations" is a laid-back, melodic yet highly-sophisticated take on African styles (something I'm not normally a fan of), featuring his mastery of the kora--a 21-string West African harp, and an exotic yet classically-beautiful disc that anyone who claims to like music should enjoy.
I recently had the pleasure of hearing Cabezas de Cera live at NEARfest in Bethlehem, PA, who mopped the stage with the other acts. They are a trio from Mexico who incorporate tribal rhythms & voicings into their prog-rock format, with the result being "Ritual of the Savage" meets early-80's King Crimson Africa-inspired experiments. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of their sound is the home-crafted and home-designed metalwork stringed instruments they play, best shown off on their set "Metalmusica." Check out http://www.cabezasdecera.com.mx.
They're not surf, lounge or rockabilly, but they will expand your musical horizons. Give 'em a listen.