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Diskreetse Mango Trio : Prigadi-Pragadi

Diskreetse Mango Trio are a 9-piece Estonian folk band who play "mainly runo-songs, in the key of rock."

For those who've heard of Estonia, but aren't quite sure where it is (like I was), it's an independant country just across from Finland - they're separated by the Gulf of Finland.

They received the Estonian Music Award 2007 as Ethno/Folk Act of the Year and it's not hard to see why! Their tracks are all very powerful, most are upbeat and with 4 singers, the vocal lines are strong and lush.

The opening track of the album - Prigadi-Pragadi - starts off with Electric Guitar and Drums letting you know exactly what's in store from this vibrant band. Many of the tracks have a similar, danceable beat and driving rhythm.

Must naine introduces the Jaws Harp which sounds great and breaks up the texture. Õhtu-ilu features a beautiful Violin introduction and gorgeous vocal line.

The album rocks out at the end with Valge jänes (though there's a hidden-track later on called Taat, ära maga with a subtle arrangement which seems to move in and out of a few time signatures).

I found the music somewhat similar to two of my favourite bands - Värttinä and Garmana - so if you enjoy those bands, you'd certainly enjoy Diskreetse Mango Trio.

I've included a video clip of Must naine to give you an idea of what they're like. They're well worth checking out, so watch it and if you're interested, see their website link below.

> Find out more about Diskreetse Mango Trio at their offical website