THE RELEASE OF ERICO NOIR'S KALIMBA DREAM:
THUMBNAIL SKETCHES

Inspired by his recent East Coast tour with Samba Ngo and Mahala, Erico Noir envisioned a collection of kalimba melodies that shimmer with mellifluous, bell-like tones of the instrument from Southern Africa. Thumbnail Sketches, Erico's new cd, is that vision.

Southern Africa, the birthplace of the kalimba, has known its intimate charm for hundreds of years. Erico brings that kalimba warmth to the fore in this enchanting compilation of music including originals by himself and Mongezi Ntaka of Mahala.

Erico Noir has worked with Mongezi Ntaka and Mahala, for several years. The group specializes in Township Jive from South Africa. Says Erico, "Township Jive is the gleeful essence of a people determined to party despite their annoying public officials."

While touring with Mahalla, Erico has worn many different musical hats including piano, accordion, and backup singer. Erico found his musical voice in the kalimba. He says,"the piano is very heavy, the accordion is heavy too--but the kalimba is light and just right."

Although blind from birth, Erico designs, builds and performs with his own kalimba creations. He achieves a variety of unique tone color from a cornucopia of discarded materials such as cigar boxes and clock springs. "My right index finger tip is shorter thanks to a table saw, and my thumbnails know the tork of a drill bit. But good music is a pain killer."

Erico admits, "I'm just learning the kalimba. I owe a great debt to so many masters of music in many genres. Can I do as the masters have taught and share the gift? If Thumbnail Sketches leaves you with a light heart, a little introspection and a smile on your face, that's a start."