Pop fightbacks come in many forms. This female collective of West African singers is dedicated to gender equality, and to raising funds for the Panzi Foundation, a Congolese hospital that treats abused women. The “Amazonian Republic” proves an exciting country, its music tumbling between languages (Mandinka, French, English), and African and western styles. Benin star Angélique Kidjo opens in strident form against a “Congotronic” setting from producer Liam Farrell (of Mbongwana Star fame), whose backings segue easily from spritely African kora to R&B and reggae grooves. There are anguished pyrotechnics from young Malian singers like Rokia Koné and Mamani Keita, sweet love calls and a restless, infectious energy to the album. A triumph.
