Mano Suave

Yasmin Levy has proved herself to be the leading exponent of Ladino song (Ladino is the language of the Sephardic Jews whose roots are in Spain). However, her previous albums have never quite captured her potential. This time, though, she's hit the spot, finding both the intensity of performance and delicacy of arrangement that's been her hallmark. The style is a mix of influences that blend perfectly — listen carefully and you can hear traces of flamenco nestled alongside Middle Eastern music, with influences from around the Mediterranean liberally scattered across the sound. Her voice is in glorious form, with a depth of purity that illustrates just how she's matured and fully grown into her ability. Her own band, now well bedded-in, is superb and sympathetic, but there are some surprising additions (Paraguayan harp, anyone?). Natacha Atlas weighs in for a duet on the title cut, which becomes a gentle contest between the two singers, both of whom work out of their skins on the track. This is a disc of real beauty, with plenty of heartbreak, and it demands intense listening. But the rewards are more than worth the time.