"'Tis but our foolish natures producing all the world's want and suffering, for in truth we inhabit a veritable paradise." This quote by Chadwick Merlowe closes the liner notes of Fools In Paradise's new CD, The Other Side of the Sky, and opens up the world that this group embraces. 72 minutes of upbeat, enjoyable, and thoroughly infectious rhythms and melodies jump off the CD, with music that warms the room and livens the spirit. Fools In Paradise is Portland's six piece band led by Kite Giedraitis, playing traditional music of Zimbabwe, South Africa, Guinea and Ghana. The authentic sounds of African instruments, many of which were handmade by Kite, include marimba, mbira, congas, djembe, dundun and hosho. Saxophone, pennywhistle and guitar coexist with the traditional instruments, seamlessly blending the colorful palette of ancient and new. Several members of the group trade off lead vocals, keeping the sound varied and interesting, from the rich soulful tone of Saffire Bouchelion's velvet vocals, to the playful and forthright styling of Kite Giedraitis. Fools In Paradise specialize their performances for children and families, but when Kevin Finkle cajoles everyone to "Jump, jump, jump! Jump, jump, jump! Shake, shake, shake! Shake, shake, shake!" in the catchy "Hama Dzedu", it's hard to imagine anyone of any age sitting still. Erin Middleton, Noah Peterson, Eric Orem, along with special guests Sherry Costar and TJ Arko also add their vocal and musical gifts to the album. Fools In Paradise are popular performers in festivals and and in schools, where they are part of the Youing Audiences' "Run for the Arts" program. One can imagine that the uplifting listening experience on this CD is even more enhaced in a live performance, where their ethnic attire, exotic instruments, and high-energy music offer an engaging gateway to African history, language, and culture.
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Playful! Relevent! Clever! Wonderful musicianship!
Like the others who have submitted a review about this CD I can't help but gush!!The music brings a smile,the words, reminders of what is important in life, and immediately gets me on my feet dancing.The combination of African rhythms and western voices and lyrics is really well done. I highly recommend this cd. Lynda Cole
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Hi Kite, I just want to tell you how much I am enjoying the new Fools CD -- I think it is absolutely brilliant. I really like the two new songs, too -- especially "Maybe." Your singing is really honest and authentic, and your marimba leads are outstanding -- especially on "Ecstasy." I really like Saffire's vocals, too, and all the harmony vocals. And Noah's horn playing is just amazing. I don't mean to gush but this CD is just really a tour-de-force of brilliant music and brilliant musicianship!
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I love this CD, I listen to it everyday!  The tunes are catchy, the words simple but relevant, and there's a lot of variety to the music.  It makes me want to sing and dance--It's just plain fun! 
I like to put it on when I'm driving, cooking, cleaning the house, doing the yardwork--Pretty soon I'm done and I've had a really good time.
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