Blue Tsapiky

Claude Teta is a guitarist and vocalist from Madagascar and here he is joined by a singer called Kirasoa, who also adds light percussion. The only other instrumentation is an accordion on one track. It's a minimal, beautifully performed album of Teta's compositions, plus one traditional song. The music is all influenced by tsapiky, the traditional music of the south, from the Mahafaly tribe from which Teta emanates. Clearly Teta also takes influence from other guitar styles and there is a nice jazz and blues edge to his fingerstyle playing.

Although living and performing in Madagascar, it is no wonder that Teta has become a popular guest on the European festival circuit. He might not be the sort of musician that will get everybody on their feet dancing; but he plays a captivating and highly entertaining style of music.