This is Artist Projects Earth second attempt to make a charity album mashing world music with pop songs, and their second triumph. According to a statement from the founder Kenny Young: "Artists Project Earth is funded entirely by sales of Rhythms Del Mundo albums,” founder Kenny Young said in a statement. “Unlike most charitable donations, you get something tangible and enjoyable in return – as well as the knowledge that you are actively supporting some really well-respected organisations and projects. We are known as the ‘Fairy God-Funders’ of the climate change movement – please help us to continue spreading our magic!”
The album, Rhtyhms Del Mundo: Africa starts with a misstep, the Coldplay remix of"Viva La Vida" doesn't work and neither does Beyonce. But it is clear sailing after that, with Plan B a seamless meeting of forms and Mumford and Sons "Timsel" the highlight of the entire enterprise.
And while she can imagine R.E.M. working, Eminem? Well, African rappers do indeed rap and TS1 is very impressive.
While I am of the mind that if you wanna listen to West African pop, get into African Pop, still, this is not a bad way to get involved and to do some good.
Grade: B+
1. Viva La Vida (Africa Mix) [feat. Coldplay]