A classic case of truth outweirding fiction, the story of La Musica Della Mafia is sure to prove at least as interesting as the lively and deeply traditional folk music within. In a nutshell, this is the music of the Calabrian Mafia in Italy, played by its members for its members--frequently at parties celebrating milestones like someone getting out of jail--and chronicling the often vicious behavior of the Mafioso. Il Canto Di Malavita (literally, "songs of the bad life") has, until now, been deeply underground and it remains thoroughly contentious in Italy. Apart from the violence detailed in the lyrics, detractors argue that it glorifies those who live outside the law. While that may be true, the music"s historical and cultural significance cannot be overlooked. Ditto its appeal among the Mafia-obsessed in North America. The disc"s 18 musical tracks (there are also six spoken-word parts) range in style and sound from rollicking accordion-juiced corkers to brittle, haunting laments, all delivered acoustically, quite possibly from a cobblestone courtyard just past midnight on a languid August night. Non-Italian speakers will enjoy the music"s simple Euro vibe and vivid sonic textures. Anyone who speaks the language will marvel at its blunt references to murder in the name of honor. Artifacts seldom come this loaded. --Kim Hughes