*** Deep Forest

COMPARSA

(Sony)

Leaving behind the ethereal mystery of their first hit single, "Sweet Lullaby," and the melancholy of their second CD, Deep Forest opt for a more jovial mix here. The spicy, voluptuous flavor and sunny festivity of an outdoor celebration colors Comparsa -- which is a name given to bands that play in the streets of Cuba and South America. Indeed, Latin and African traditions are the basis of the album's seasoned mix of soulful, crisp vocals with percussion that is sometimes bold, sometimes as delicate as bare feet on the ground.

Deep Forest are more faithful to the world cultures they celebrate this time around -- with the exception of a few electronic enhancements, the group avoid surrounding ethnic voices with overly techno-ized riffs. "Noonday Sun" pulses with Afropop exuberance and dancing horns. "Madazulu" layers Caribbean rhythms and an undulating accordion with the gorgeous vocals of South African singers and Malagassy children. Weather Report founder Joe Zawinul lends a hand on one of few diversions, the jazz-rockish "Deep Weather." And Syria's Abed Azie appears on "Media Luna," a reed-and-string heavy blend of Arab and Andalusian music.

-- Laura K. Warrell