Kapka

The two singing cellists of Tara Fuki had quite a challenge: coming up with a convincing follow-up to their spellbinding debut CD. Kapka delivers on the promises held by Piosenki Do Snu (well, the few that weren't already fully realized on this surprisingly mature debut album) and adds a new element in the form of sampling work courtesy of Mario Bussi. The focus remains on Dorota Barová and Andrea Konstankiewicz-Nazir's dueling cellos and wonderful vocal interplay, but here and there Bussi's makeshift beats and textures push the music into different realms — particularly in "Oci," literally exploding after a quiet first half. Tara Fuki's music draws from the classical heritage of the cello, adding the Eastern European folk traditions and the options opened for the pop format by progressive rock. These songs are therefore unusual in their conception, but the intimate setting and the beauty of these two voices make them immediately appealing. Some pieces feature onomatopoeic singing ("Kapka," "Okamzik"), others are sung in Polish, Czech, and French. Highlights include "Cichy Placz" (ending on a frantic cello loop), the aforementioned "Oci," and the concluding "Na Lace." "Okamzik" ("Instant") is a funny little piece on a "tick-tock" motif with a surprise ending. If Bussi's samples occasionally startle, his contribution dresses up the songs nicely and introduces an element of change and unpredictability. Once again, the album has been kept short, eschewing any filler material that would lessen its impact. Recommended. ~ François Couture, Rovi