Hadouk - Le Cinquième Fruit

Review by Michael Pearson

Le Cinquième Fruit, the latest album by the French world music group Hadouk, is a mesmerizing journey through a myriad of musical cultures and genres. From the opening track "Nuit des Temps" to the closing piece "Le Chant des Sables", the album takes the listener on a sonic adventure that blends traditional Middle Eastern, African and European sounds with modern electronic beats and textures.

The musicianship on display here is nothing short of stunning. Multi-instrumentalist Didier Malherbe, who has played with the likes of Gong and Soft Machine, showcases his virtuosity on the duduk, bansuri, and various flutes, while guitarist Loy Ehrlich adds a touch of rock and blues to the mix. Bassist Jean-Luc Di Fraya and percussionist Steve Shehan provide the rhythmic foundation, with Di Fraya's fretless bass lines adding a fluidity and depth to the music.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "L'Arbre à Palabres", which features guest vocals by Malian singer Mamani Keita. The song is a beautiful blend of Malian and Middle Eastern sounds, with Keita's soulful voice adding a haunting quality to the music.

Summary by Michael Pearson

Le Cinquième Fruit is a masterful work of world fusion that showcases the talents of Hadouk's members and their ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles into a cohesive whole. It's a must-listen for fans of world music and anyone looking for a musical journey beyond the borders of their own culture.