Everything Is Never Quite Enough

EVERYTHING IS NEVER QUITE ENOUGH is a greatest hits collection from one of world music's most respected and versatile artists. Senegal-born Wasis Diop may not be as well known as his countrymen Youssou N'Dour and Orchestra Baobab, but this retrospective will please fans and introduce new listeners to the stunning fusion sounds of this unique performer. Singing in various languages including French, English, and his native Wolof, Diop's voice is deep, dark, and sensual, pulling listeners into his polyphonic world. Culled from his two solo albums--NO SANT and TOXU--and his soundtrack to the film HYENAS, this compilation features some of Diop's best known recordings including his funky reworking of the Talking Heads' "Once in a Lifetime," which is in Wolof here and titled "DeFaal Lu Wor." Like his eclectic solo recordings, the music on EVERYTHING IS NEVER QUITE ENOUGH runs through traditional African music, French pop, American R&B, and even Japanese operatic vocals. The only new track on the collection is the stunning opener, "Le Passeur," a track that shimmers with long chords, sotto voce chants, and the circular rhythms of the mbira, or African thumb piano. A great recording for listeners who like a challenge and a surprise in their music, EVERYTHING IS NEVER QUITE ENOUGH will also charm and please.