"Bhundu" is Shona for "Bush," which is where the Bhundu Boys' delightful music originates. Updating traditional African melodies, the Bhundu Boys make guitars and synths sound like African instruments such as the mbira (thumb piano) and balafon (a kind of xylophone). The band also tosses some tasty Caribbean flavors into the stew, including Latin-style horns and percolating polyrhythms guaranteed to put a spring in your step, while lambent guitar melodies and unison singing glide gaily over the top.

It's a shame the Bhundu Boys don't sing in their native Shona language, but if English lyrics help them reach an American audience, more power to 'em. They must also battle to be more than this year's trendy African ensemble. They are slicker than most of their counterparts, but the immaculate production doesn't obscure the earthiness of the Shona melodies.

The Bhundu Boys are Zimbabwean, and the joy of their country's 1980 revolution is still fresh in their hearts and minds. Eight years later they still sound deliriously happy to be able to play traditional music without fear of persecution. "Vana (The Children)" sounds like a straight-ahead party number until midway through, when the singer announces, "This song is dedicated to all our brothers and sisters who were fighting for our liberation in Zimbabwe, who fought and died in the bushes of Zimbabwe."

Here's upbeat, happy music that should appeal to everyone. How could you resist a bunch of guys with names like Biggie Tembo and Shakie Kangwena? (RS 539)

MICHAEL AZERRAD