For those of you who haven't made the acquaintance of these two beautiful young chanteuses, allow me to introduce you - please! You will not be disappointed. Héléne and Célia Faussart are Les Nubians, a delightful duo who have combined their talents to form a group which moves through the realms of R&B, Urban, Jazz, Hip Hop, and even gospel with dexterity and grace.

The Faussarts were born in France to a French father and Cameroonian mother. They learned to sing early on, and proved their talents, as an a cappella group. They lived for a while in Chad, learning more about themselves and their cultural roots. Their music brings together what they have learned and experienced thus far in their travels. The work is not commercially based. These ladies have a message, and they speak it eloquently. Les Nubiennes is an album of hope, experience, encouragement, and revelation.

"Demain" (Tomorrow), the first track on their album is a moving and insistent Jazz piece which echoes of Africa. Héléne and Célia forcefully put forth their message of working for a better future through this uplifting and encouraging song.

"Les Portes Du Souvenir" (Memory's Doors) is a sensuous blending of their very liquid silken voices in a sophisticated dance with violins, viola and bass. You don't need to understand French to hear the haunting pull of this lovely reflection on the universal question in the search for love.

"Sourire" (Smile) - Yes, and I did! This one moves to a cool conga-like beat. You can hear the jungle in this one. The birds, the monkeys are there punctuating their song with smiles and warm sun.

"Tabou" is a tribute to Sade and her classic "Sweetest Taboo". I love Sade's "Taboo" and was a bit skeptical at first when I heard the opening strains of this decidedly different rendition. They did carry it off though, bringing a freshness to this tune, along with a slight change in lyrics. As always, Héléne and Célia carried off the melody with their souls and their talent. The addition of Casey's rap artistry was not appealing, and even somewhat jarring, but then I don't care for rap, and feel that this song would've been better without it.

"Embrasse-moi" (Kiss me) by Mounir - "Kiss me slowly. Is this what my lips are asking?"... "I adore you".... "I want to sleep with you".... They beckon... They implore... They hypnotize... They seduce... Close your eyes .... Be transported.... I was.

"Sugar Cane" by Thierry Mane: The only English language piece on the album speaks for itself. It calls all to remember history, to not fall into its trap. It's conversational, a dialogue with an African harmony that blends with the decidedly European instrumentals. It literally covers the world.

"Si Je T'avais Écouté" - (If Only I Had Listened To You) More than just a song about abortion, it's about a young girl who faces an unplanned pregnancy. Change and the nightmare of realization; this song makes a statement about personal responsibility. The music is strong. The meaning is poignant and clear.

"Hymne Nubien" - an infectious beat and a soft chant give the listener a sweet interlude between the two moving and empowering "Si Je T'avais Écouté" and "Voyager;" voicing the need to travel, explore, and learn. Not to be daunted by barriers, because ultimately, we are all creatures of the same world. "I declare my citizenship of the Earth...... Deciding that all of the Earth is mine."

Overall, this album is a joyful, important, empowering journey in itself. The lyrics are beautiful, but at the same time, a translation is unnecessary to enjoy the music. Les Nubians have found their voices in harmony with excellent backup musicians, and a rich mixture of culture and beauty. Héléne and Célia are the audible expression of liquid silk, and strength. Forget that cup of coffee at the end of the day; drink this in. You'll relax, and revive.