Forêt Sacrée

Joel Nya is a singer-songwriter who clearly takes his influences not just from the popular bikutsi style but also from French chanson, jazz, pop, Latin and world music in general. This is his debut and it is a welcome potpourri of eight songs recorded in the Cameroonian capital Yaoundé. He has a pleasing voice, which is embellished by some good ensemble playing. A great horn section runs through the lively title-track. Surprisingly, the second track is a sensitive ballad with acoustic guitar and lone trumpet. The mood alternates from ballads to gentle dance songs – all performed with charm and self-assurance. Joel Nya has been compared to Blick Bassy and will hopefully find similar international recognition.