The woman with the many voices: Lila Downs, of mixed Mexican and American origin, studied opera singing at university and uses her skills to patch a colourful album which centres her roots as well as the life of Mexican immigrants in the USA. From Mexican balladas, polkas ("Hanal Weech"), harp music ("La Linea") to American roots music ("Pastures of Plenty/This Land Is Your Land"). Let's accept this last title as being her strong and clear political statement. Nevertheless: this is an unmistakebly Latin-American album, that reminds us of Mercedes Sosa ("El Feo", "Tr?nsito") as well of Susana Baca ("La Ni?a"), but with a modern touch ("Soy Pescador"). A strong new voice has definitely entered the scene. You may have to listen more times to be caught by the strength and beauty of this album.
