Angélique Kidjo
Eve
Release Date: Jan 28, 2014
Genre(s): R&B, Latin, Reggae, Funk, Pop/Rock, Contemporary Singer/Songwriter, International, World Fusion, West African, African Traditions, African Folk, Afro-Pop, Afro-beat, Caribbean Traditions, International Pop
Record label: 429 Records
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Album Review: Eve by Angélique Kidjo
Very Good, Based on 6 Critics
Based on rating 8/10
Eve is Beninese singer/songwriter Angélique Kidjo's first recording in nearly four years. Its title is inspired literally by her mother Yvonne's nickname, and metaphorically for the Judeo-Christian heritage's first woman. It is "dedicated to the women of Africa: to their resilience and their beauty." Produced by Patrick Dillett, the album was recorded in the U.S., France, Luxembourg, and Africa.
Based on rating 4
There are few more revered or respected African musicians than Beninese singer Angelique Kidjo. Her recording career has spanned over 20 years and has seen her firmly champion the cause for Africa and its music across the world, culminating in a Grammy award for 2008’s album Djin Djin. Kidjo, who is also a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, has always been an inspiring figure, with numerous political and social campaigns running concurrent to her recording career.
Based on rating 7/10
Pride for one’s country and/or culture could be considered one of the most important characteristics or requirements of any citizen. Additionally, being a woman birthed from a storied, unique culture demands lofty respect and pride as well. Versatile world musician Angélique Kidjo doesn’t refrain from exhibiting her pride and love for her native country of Benin, located in West Africa.
Based on rating 3/5
Angélique Kidjo is an impressive lady. She deserves her celebrity status as much for her political courage and campaigning work as for her rousing and enjoyable live shows, but her recordings have often been depressingly brash. Her new album coincides with the publication of her autobiography, is dedicated to the women of Africa and named after her mum, who makes an appearance singing a childhood favourite.
Based on rating 3/5
An indomitable performer with an electrifying voice, a social activist and Unicef ambassador, Angélique Kidjo is a force of nature. This 11th album coincides with a memoir, Spirit Rising, and a concert with Philip Glass based on Yoruba creation myth. Eve pays homage to African women, with songs about arranged marriage and peace-making, most featuring female choirs from Kidjo's native Benin.
Opinion: Excellent
Angélique Kidjo has a tremendous voice — bold, energetic, clear — and equally strong social commitment. Kidjo’s magnetism is such that she can have Bill Clinton blurb and Desmond Tutu write the foreword of her new memoir, and feature jazz greats Christian McBride and Lionel Loueke, among others, on her new album, “Eve” — plus guests Asa, Dr. John, Vampire Weekend’s Rostam Batmanglij, and the Kronos Quartet.
'Eve'
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