Album: Joana Amendoeira, A Flor da Pele (Chant Du Monde)

Amendoeira's fado-singing is wonderfully subtle.

Each song has its own character, and each phrase is exquisitely shaped: several of the lyrics are newly written for her, but all draw from that well of inspiration which has nourished fado since its inception a century and a half ago. As these lyrics reflect, the trick is to keep things simple and direct. "I planted a carnation by my window to give to my love, and I created spring round that flower..." The accompaniments – on Portuguese guitar, Spanish guitar and bass – warm the heart.