Monday's mp3: Jazz from the Virgin Forest

The best African jazz I know of comes from South Africa and Cameroon. But Benin-born Lionel Loueke is making me take a second listen to other nations. Loueke's newest album, Virgin Forest, is just out on ObliqSound, and it's a tasty blend of African rhythms and melodies with contemporary jazz.

While the new album features guest artists including Herbie Hancock, Cyro Baptista, Gregoire Maret, Gretchen Parlato, and two Benin percussion troupes, it's got an overall similar vibe to this track from his 2004 album with Massimo Biolacati (bass) and Ferenc Nemeth (drums).

[mp3] Lionel Loueke Trio: Akwe
from the album Gilfema

Loueke's trio performs Aug. 7 and 8 at Jazz Alley in Seattle. Find his complete tour schedule on his website at www.lionelloueke.com