Kwanzaa music is as colorful as the traditional red, green, and black hues that are employed to celebrate the holiday. African in origin, the seven-day celebration is practiced by many African Americans. It takes place from December 26 through January 1. The Swahili word means "first" or "first fruits," and the holiday celebrates the first harvest. The lighting of a candle each evening focuses on one of the values revered by a traditional agrarian culture. These are unity, taking control of one's own life, collective work and responsibility, sharing money and profits, purpose, creativity, and faith. This CD is a compilation of music to help celebrate the holiday. The selections are performed by musical artists from both Africa and America. Among the African performers are some of the continent's most renowned musicians, including Mahlathini & the Mahotella Queens, Baha Men, Abdul Aziz El Mubarak, Oumou Sangare, and Thomas Mapfumo & the Blacks Unlimited. The American selections are an eclectic mix, ranging from the king of zydeco, Clifton Chenier's "Bon Ton Roulet," to James Brown's "Get on the Good Foot, Part One." Soul diva Aretha Franklin sings "Spirit in the Dark" and Clarence Brown does "Information Blues." The Mardi Gras Indians from New Orleans put in an appearance, with Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias performing the traditional "Coconut Milk." The pieces range in tone from joyous to humorous to reverential. The diverse traditions that go into the compilation's selections leave the listener with an appreciation for the richness of the cultural heritage that Kwanzaa celebrates. ~ Rose of Sharon Witmer, All Music Guide