The band also moves into the decidedly rock territory of tsapika (my current favorite island pop sound) on "Mihetsika," with fuzzy electric guitars and full throttle electric bass facing off the kabosy and small percussion instruments in a crazy rhythm that will surely force the Americans and Euros on Tarika's next tour to pay attention to ther

Mihetsika (excerpt)

steps. The upbeat and anthemic "Fety" shows the real strength of this band. They can make a solid groove and a frenzied dance beat. They seamlessly mix jazzy saxophones and swinging folk fiddle with a heavy drum beat that is as dance-inspiring as any super-wattage pop band, creating music that is energized without being enervated by cheap tricks or crossover cliches. This has become the hallmark of the band in most of its work, both live and on record. They are determined to be popular, at home and around the world, but they are unwilling to make huge trade-offs to achieve fame. D is full of music that is accessible, to be sure, but it is first and foremost music that matters. - CF