From the Smithsonian sound archives, this recording from 1987 features all of the various styles of Tuvan throat singing (khoomei), popularized to some degree in the West by groups such as Huun-Huur Tu and the movie Genghis Blues. The five styles are all given equal time: kargiraa, sigit, borbannadir, ezengileer, and khoomei. As would be expected by such an enterprise from the Smithsonian Folkways arm, the musicians are all excellent at what they do and perform their works beautifully. The main detractor on this album is the ridiculous shortness of every track, with the longest reaching up toward a minute and a half. Other compilations (Deep in the Heart of Tuva, Tuva: Among the Spirits) provide a better exposition of full songs, instead of simply the techniques in use. Still, for any budding ethnomusicologist this is a worthwhile one to pick up. For a newcomer, please note that khoomei is generally something of an acquired taste. One should definitely listen to some, but should do so with caution (wear your helmets, kiddies). ~ Adam Greenberg