Africa: Never Stand Still

This ambitious three-CD collection is quite simply the best introduction to the diverse popular music of Africa that there is. While it stands by itself as the perfect instant African music collection, it also serves as a fine jumping off point for exploring Africa's myriad musical cultures. The producers have done an excellent job selecting outstanding tracks by a broad variety of Africa's premier groups and recording stars from all over the continent. This compilation offers maximum diversity and impeccable sound quality throughout. The lushly illustrated and annotated 48-page booklet that comes with this set is rich with information about this crucial musical continent. --Jeff Grubb