MALI

Home to many of the best known names in African music.

This page was last updated on 12/1/10.

ARTIST	TITLE	NUMBER	FMT	PRICE	BUY
ABDOUL GAOULO N'DIAY	GNORON VOLUME 1	SAM077292-4	TC	7.50	COL
My limited literary skills just can't do justice to an album that is this good. Suffice it simply to say 'IT'S B$@@&Y MAGIC' from end to end. It overflows with the sounds of balafon, kora, n'goni and percussion and as an instrumental album it would have been superb. However it isn't and Abdoul has an incredible voice that effortlessly surfs over the music frothing below. In his turn he is backed by the equally gorgeous voices of the girls who compose the chorus line. It's hopeless to try and pick out the best tracks so just have a listen to Kena Boure, the others are all equally as good! (F.T.Index: Kena Boure ) [8T/55M]		1. GNORON 2. CISSE BABA 3. KIGUE BANDA 4. DOUBE FATOU 5. M'BOLOBILA KISSO 6. KENA BOURE 7. SAMBA TOURE 8. BANDIRABE
ABDOULAYE DIABATE	BENDE	09287-2	CD	13.85	COL
		1. BENDE 2. BALANI 3. MASSAYA 4. SENE 5. FORONTO 6. GNOKO 7. MONZON 8. DJORO
ABDOULAYE DIABATE	NAMAWOU	SYL83135	TC	6.50	COL
Gorgeous album of traditional songs mainly played on Ngoni and Balafon with a bit of help from guitar played by Djely Moussa Kouyate. Abdoulaye's singing is really smashing and the girls backing him include Mah Damba and Assa Damba. As it's recorded in Paris they also got Jean Philippe Rykiel to do the keyboards and balafons. More Malian magic, wonder if 'Men of Wassoullou' is on Sterns mind? If it is, then I bet the absolutely fabulous tracks 'Yaala' and 'Tall' will be on it?		1. FANTANYA 2. DJIBI 3. MASSASSI 4. SIKI 5. YAALA 6. NAMAWOU 7. YAYAN KONO 8. TALL
ABDOULAYE DIABATE	TABALE	83178	TC	6.50	COL
Produced in Paris by Boncana Maiga with a line-up that includes vocalists Sekou Kouyate, Mah Damba, Assita Keita and Mama Kouyate - guitarists Djely Moussa Kouyate, Saffre Coulibaly and Hilaire Penda - percussionist Mare Sanogo and last but not least that famous horn trio of Hatot, Bolognesi and Slominsky. Abdoulaye turns in a masterly performance with some lovely singing especially on the title track reminded me a bit of Salif Keita's 'Soro'. (F.T.Index: Djiriyo, Kanou Saba, Son Fon, Tabale. ) [6T/36M]		1. BIMOU 2. KANOU SABA 3. DJIRIYO 4. SON FON 5. TABALE 6. DJIRIYO (Instrumental)
ABDOULAYE DIABATE AND KENE STAR	KASSIKOUN	38765-2	CD	12.65	COL
[8T/41M]
ABDOULAYE DIABATE AND KOUTIALA ORCHESTRA	SAMORY	09354-2	CD	13.85	COL
Real dance floor throbber this one with pounding bass heavy percussion and a great mix of string sounds behind the upfront vocals. ( F.T.Index: Sere, Kounandi, Soyere-yere, Sounou, Syako, Samory, Karamokole, Samalole. ) [8T/M]
ABDOULAYE SARRE	LA BELLE	1078	TC	6.50	COL
The title track has to be unique as far as Malian music goes, when Abdoulaye's traditional hunters story is interupted by a dispute between Shakara and Rokia Sangare which ends up in tears, absolutely terrific. The rest of the album is just as good as the music flits between Malian traditional and the more modern Wassoulou sound but this time it's the amazing guitar playing of Brahima Konate and Bakary Traore that's outstanding. Just listen to the lovely bluesy message coming across on Woye Sangaye. Also in there is ace drummer S. S. Rougeot taking time off from his own group (tapes coming) and a lovely chorus line up in the shape of Oumou Sissoko, Fatoumata Diabate and Maimouna Kouyate. Wonderful. (F.T.Index: La Belle, Ndiagni Ba, Woye Sangaye, Banamba Kaw, Ngana Ke.) [8T/38M]
ABLAYE DIT DOSSIN TRAORE	CENAAJANI - VOL II	IK019	TC	6.50	COL
This is the second album from Ablaye and once again shows us the softer traditional sounds of Mali that come from the mix of balafon and simple percussion. Although featuring the same line-up of artists and instruments as in the first volume, this time the whole tempo of the music is much faster and the vocals more intense in their effect. (While I prefered the slower pace of the first album I found the last track on this album, 'Bekandina', was absolutely essential to my Malian collection.) (F.T.Index: Bekandina, Cenaajani, Tekereni, ) [6T/49M]
ABLAYE DIT DOSSIN TRAORE	MOGOYA - VOL I	IK018	TC	6.50	COL
The traditional sounds of Mali comes to the fore on this relaxed album by Ablaye who sings and is also percussionist and calabash player. Both Kindjo Diarra and Diarra Traore play the balafon and noted percussionist Dounanke Koita also doubles up as arranger. Ablaye's rough yet velvety voice is very complementary to the softly resonating sounds of the balafon and the accompanying subdued percussion. (F.T.Index: Mogoya, Woroyafan, Arime, Curi ) [6T/48M]
ABOUBACAR KISSA CUBAIN DE SEGOU	MALIBA	CK7061	TC	£ 6.00
Aboubacar as his name implies comes from the town of Segou and he was originally a singer with the town's famous band, 'Super Biton de Segou' Powerful and gritty voice with rather nice chorus girls and somewhat unusual music which includes trumpet as well as guitars and more traditional sounds. Musically it is quite different from the usual Malian sounds in that it has an almost melancholy sound to it. ( F.T.Index: Walegnuma, Djaneba, Garba Mama, Kibaru, Maliba, Democratie, So Karafe. ) [[7T/38M]
ABOUBACAR SIDIKI PARE dit VIEUX	BARONI	BARONI	TC	£ 10.00
A rather nice album from singer, composer, guitarist and percussionist Aboubacar who is better know as Vieux. With a bit of help from Mamadou Diakite and Karamoko Simaga on guitars, Oumar Diallo on keyboard and Backing singers Tata Sacko and Hawa Sidibe. Recorded in 1998 at Studio Yeelen in Bamako which I had never come across before. [42M]		1. BARONI 2. CHERIE - CHERIE 3. FOLIKAN 4. KANKELEN TIGUI 5. DELIKO 6. SUBO 7. YELEMA 8. KAYUMAN
ADAMA DIABATE	JAKO BAYE	STCD1062	CD	£ 12.50
AICHATA SIDIBE	LA VIE EST SI BELLE	AICHATA	TC	£ 10.00
A very nice album from singer Aichata that on first hearing brought memories of early Nahawa Doumbia immediately to mind. The music is a bit more modern in sound and instrumentation with sax and for the first time that I have ever noticed on Malian music, a piano! However the guitars are there alongside the calabash, n'goni and djembe and Ismael Wonder on chorus with Maman. The modern traditional mix is nice and with a bit of unobtrusive rap springing a pleasant suprise every so often. I hate rap but this album is a very pleasant all the way through.		1. YIKI 2. LA VIE EST SI BELLE 3. MANU MANI 4. KOKOYO 5. KANUNA 6. I MA KOU 7. KONARE A. BAH 8. KOBENA KUMA
ALI FARKA TOURE	ALI FARKA TOURE	WCD007	CD	11.50	COL
ALI FARKA TOURE	RADIO MALI	WCD044	CD	13.65	COL
ALI FARKA TOURE	RED AND GREEN ( 2 x CD )	WCD070	CD	£ 13.65
Two CD set of classic Ali Farka Toure recordings available for the first time in over a decade. The 'Red' album is the pivotal set that launched Ali's career in the west, and the 'Green' album confirmed his status as one of Africa's most important artists. Both albums are included complete and digitally remastered from the original tapes. Tracks : La Drogue (5:37) Ali Aoudy (6:33) Cherie (4:39) Timbindy (5:44) Laleiche (5:32) Ketine (7:13) Laisse les Phases (4:39) Baliky Lalo (3:42) Sidi Gouro (3.49k O Kata Gouna (4:25) Devele Wague (6:02) N'timbara (4:01) Zona (7:43) M'baudy (8:55) Petenere (4:52) L'Exode (5:21)
ALI FARKA TOURE	THE SOURCE	WCD030	CD	13.65	COL
ALI FARKE TOURE	SAVANE	WCD075	CD	13.65	COL
ALI FARKE TOURE	THE SOURCE	1375	TC	6.50	COL
ALI FARKE TOURE AND RY COODER	TALKING TIMBUKTOU	1381	TC	£ 6.50
ALOU FANE	FOTEMOCOBA	FRO1	TC	6.50	COL
N'goni player Alou spent 15 years in the Ballet National du Mali and left along with Zani Diabate and four others to form the Super Djata Band. If you saw the group on tour some years ago Alou was the tallest of the three singers with the Zapata moustache and deep bass voice. Two other members of that famous band are also here, singer Daouda 'Flani' Sangare and bass guitarist Abou Camara who along with Djorou Diallo on flute and Zoumana Diarra on guitar, n'goni and balafon, make up the band Fotemacoba. Not quite as electric or lively as the Super Djata sound but just as lovely to listen to and quite danceable as well. (F.T.Index: Baba No. 2, Baba No. 1, Tou Lomba, La Cle.) [4T/21M] The CD (DKS005) is longer by 5 tracks & 26 minutes than the tape but doesn't include the track La Cle.
ALOU FANE'S FOTE MOCOBA	KALAMAN N'GONI - DOZON N'GONI (DKS005)	2002850	CD	11.99	COL
See also Kamale Ngoni - CD - LBLC2517
AMADOU AND MARIAM	1990-1995: LE MEILLEUR DES ANNEES	BEC5772004	CD	11.15	COL
AMADOU AND MARIAM	WITH MANU CHAO: DIMANCHE A BAMAKO	BEC5772000	CD	£ 14.35
AMADOU BAGAYOKO AND MARIAM DOUMBIA	LE COUPLE AVEUGLE DU MALI VOL II	BLIND2	TC	7.00	COL
AMADOU BAGAYOKO AND MARIAM DOUMBIA	LE COUPLE AVEUGLE DU MALI VOL III	MAILPS1051	TC	7.00	COL
AMADOU BAGAYOKO AND MARIAM DOUMBIA	LE COUPLE AVEUGLE DU MALI VOL IV	MAILPS1053	TC	7.00	COL
AMADOU BAGAYOKO AND MARIAM DOUMBIA	LE COUPLE AVEUGLE DU MALI VOL V	MAIKANO1073	TC	7.00	COL
Amadou Bagayoko and Mariam Doumbia are 'The Blind Couple of Mali' and this is their fifth album together which is SIMPLY INCREDIBLE and I'm definitely on the lookout for the other four. Although they have both sadly been denied the gift of sight they have been endowed with wonderful voices and a superb ability to transform a simple tune into pure musical magic. Amadou is also a talented musician and with help from fellow guitarists Baka Diabate and Alou Magadji they play some real mean bluesy guitar. All ten tracks except for Di Ye La Tigue (Muddy Waters would be proud) are based on traditional sounds and from this, with their superb singing and guitar playing, they manage to wrench every last ounce of feeling. Move over Ali Farka Toure as the harder edge of Malian blues has arrived. (The F.T.Index: De Wolo Mousso Lou, Don Be Mangan, Di Ye La Tigue, Le Monde A Change)
AMADOU DJELIBA BAH	AMADOU	OU003	TC	6.50	COL
Singer, composer and n'goni player Amadou and Hamadi Bori Kasse who also plays n'goni are the only two artists on this very traditional album. Quite what or where the simple percussion is coming from I haven't worked out yet! No dance floor classic this one but I can't wait for a hot summers day, deck chair on the patio, ice cold 6 pack and then let the world drift by while listening to the lovely laid back sounds of the n'goni's. (F.T.Index: ? Anywhere. ) [2T/M41]
AMADOU ET MARIAM	SOU NI TILE	557118	CD	£ 11.05
Mariam sings while Amadou also plays guitar. Accompanying them are a world wide selection of artist. Stephane San Juan on drums and percussion. Shihab M'ghezzi Bekhouche on bass. Matu on Fender Rhodes, Hammond XB3. Walde Baba Sissoko on Tama. Andres Viafara and Alberto Rodriguez on trombones. Barbaro Teunter Garcia on Trumpets. Loic Landois on harmonica. Sameh Gatalan and Johar Ali Khan on violin. Alain Hatot on transverse flute. Idwar Iskandar on ney (arabian flute) and last but not least Awa Timbo and Sanata Doumbia with the background vocals. The playing is superb, the music is magic and I still think the original tapes they took these tracks from were superior. Gorgeous album.
AMADOU ET MARIAM	COUPLE AVEUGLE DU MALI , SE TE DJON YE	CDS7044	CD	13.20	COL
AMADOU ET MARIAM	GE NI MOUSSO	5430672	CD	£ 14.75
The Blind Couple of Mali were pure magic when their series of cassettes came out back in the 80's but this is a 1999 reworking of some of those stunning sounds. Is it good.......No. It's ABSOLUTELY FRIGGIN FABULOUS, over an hour of dance till you drop music that brought the memories flooding back. Have a quick listen to this track and try not to move while its playing, go on just try. Ha ha, no chance! [15T/67M]		Track: Bali Maou
AMADOU ET MARIAM	WATI	168582	CD	£ 14.75
AMADOU SANGARE dit 'Bari'	Vol 2 DJIGUY	ABK7002	TC	£ 6.50
Simpley sung once again with the kora providing the music but unlike Vol. 1 this time round Bari is also accompanied by electric guitar simple percussion and a chorus of shrill voiced girls. The first track sounds a bit discordant but after that it settles into a smooth pattern.
AMBASSADEUR INTERNATIONAL	MANDJOU	BLP5040	LP	0.00	COL
A five track LP with the original version of Mandjou (not the Island one) along with Kandja, 4 V, N'toman and Balla, the last track is not out on any compilation CD's.		1. MANDJOU 2. KANDJA 3. 4 V 4. N'TOMAN 5. BALLA
AMI KOITA	DEBE VOL. II	DEBE	TC	£ 7.50
This album is very different from 'Hine Mansa'. For a start Moriba Koita takes over from Mama Drame on n'goni and virtuoso musician Keletigui Diabate comes in to give us a wonderful display on both the violin and his favourite, the balafon. Once again, Bouba Sacko accompanies them on guitar. Ami's voice powers out over the music but she does let the musicians have plenty of room to show their paces. A lovely album that has been recorded from the original vinyl. (F.T.Index: Banny Kebe, Idjodo, Amy Nana, Debe. ) [4T/32M]
AMI KOITA	HINE MANSA VOL. I	HINE	TC	7.50	COL
Although it is called Volume I and Sterns Guide dates it at 1980, Volume III is dated as 1978! Anyway never mind that, what about the album itself. SUPERB, just Ami accompanied by Mama Drame on n'goni and Bouba Sacko on guitar. Their playing is simply exquisite to say the least, the sort of thing that knocks a classic like DJAM LEELII into a cocked hat. Ami herself hasn't yet developed the powerful style of singing that her recent albums are famous for but she still comes across as a tremendous singer. (F.T.Index: Den Te Sanna, Bomboli Niare, Hine Mansa, Mali Guindo. ) [4T/42M]
AMI KOITA	HOMMAGE A SAMBAYAL GAYE 'CONCORDE'	AK001	TC	£ 7.50
An absolutely out of this world album! Bakary Diabate excels himself on the cora, as does n'goni player Makan Tounkara, laying down a profusion of notes like a carpet for Ami to walk over. Balafon and keyboard player Kemo Kouyate also provides some lovely backing for Ami's magnificent vocals and I do mean MAGNIFICENT. (F.T.Index: Toro Mo Douman, Bambougoutchi, Mamaya, Lamban, Kaira. ) [6T/40M] Now out on CD as 'SONGS OF PRAISE'
AMI KOITA	LA SUBLIME	LA SUBLIME	TC	6.50	COL
I popped the tape into the machine without reading the inlay card and sat back and started to really enjoyed some great Paris influenced Malian praise singing. However by the time I got to the third track, 'Koro Ta', I had to re-think it as Ami went back to a very traditional number which was wonderful. Switching over to side 'B' sent me scratching around for the inlay to find out what should be on there instead of this slightly strange Soukous music that was now booming out! Well...suck my socks!! Enter now, Wawali Bonane on vocals and the magic of 'Huit Kilos' on guitar. The first mix of Malian and Zairean music that I've ever heard. Wonderful but with those two on it and Ami as well what else could it be. A real gem this one. Please note. That anyone requesting one of my socks to suck, your next of kin can get a refund on returning the tape and the sock!
AMI KOITA	LE DEFI	MANSA	TC	7.00	COL
Her latest release is very nice as she has toned down that stupendous voice of hers so that you can actually hear the music and the girls in the chorus. A mix of both traditional and modern music with xalams and balafon forming the traditional base and keyboards, linn drums, guitars and horns the modern instrumentation, which for once doesn't interfere but actually enhances the traditional elements. The modern tracks such as Benide and Djonson are very nice and for Ami quite different to her usual output. Recorded at Studio JBZ in Abidjan, the album features two well known Ivoriens, Sax player Manou Yodan and singer Antoinette Konan, also in the line-up is super singer Aminatta Kamissoko from Guinea Conakry. (F.T.Index: Beninde, Djeliman, Soman, Kotouba. ) [9T/46M]
AMI KOITA	MORY DJO	120590-4	TC	6.50	COL
Top selling vocalist Ami really sings her heart out on this stunning album. Some great music with backing from a mix of modern and traditional intruments including Ami's own acoustic guitar. I particularly liked the caribbean rhythm that she's used to great effect on 'Defa Wane' but the best track has to be 'Hampate Ba' with it's gorgeous kora and flute music. BRILLIANT ALBUM.
AMI KOITA	NAKAN	SS-66	TC	7.50	COL
AMI KOITA	TARA VOL. III ( 1978 )	TARA	TC	7.50	COL
A very young looking Ami graces the cover of this album which has the earliest date of all. The backing of n'goni and balafon is lovely but Ami is really out to display the formidable power of her vocals, the thing that was to make her famous. In fact so strong is her singing that the music is almost hidden behind it! Great album from a great singer. ( Recorded from vinyl ). (F.T.Index: Tara. Nene Daou, Tangabaly, Tara.) [4T/34M]
AMIINATA KAMISSOKO	MALAMINE	STCD1079	CD	£ 12.50
AMY KOITA	DJIGUY	DJIGUY	TC	£ 6.50
ASKIA MODIBO	WASS REGGAE	STCD1060	CD	12.50	COL
Superlative fifth album from Askia but only his second as 'The Rasta of the Sahel'. As 'Modibo Kone' he showed his understanding of traditional Malian music and the kora in particular. This album follows closely in the footsteps of his 'Wass-Reggae' album 'Djiguiya' which he played with the group 'Bamanaya'. This time he plays with top Paris session musicians such as guitarists, Yves Ndjock, Djely Moussa Kouyate & from Mozambique, Gito Baloi, plus the superb horn trio of Hatot, Slominski & Bolognesi with keyboards by Wurrie Moctar. It isn't strictly Reggae as we're used to and it isn't Malian as we're used to but its 'Sahel' of an album! ( F.T. Index: Devaluation, Les Aigles Du Mali, Nimato ) [11T/57M]
ASKIA MODIBO (MODIBO KONE)	LES AIGLES	83177	TC	£ 7.00
Superlative fifth album from Askia but only his second as 'The Rasta of the Sahel'. As 'Modibo Kone' he showed his understanding of traditional Malian music and the kora in particular. This album follows closely in the footsteps of his 'Wass-Reggae' album 'Djiguiya' which he played with the group 'Bamanaya'. This time he plays with top Paris session musicians such as guitarists, Yves Ndjock, Djely Moussa Kouyate & Kenyan, Gito Baloi, the superb horn trio of Hatot, Slominski & Bolognesi with keyboards by Wurrie Moctar. It isn't strictly Reggae as we're used to and it isn't Malian as we're used to but its 'Sahel' of an album! WONDERFUL. ( F.T. Index: Devaluation, Les Aigles Du Mali, Nimato )
ASKIA MODIBO AND THE BAMNAYA	DJIGUIYA	DJIGUIYA	TC	7.00	COL
ASSITA TOUNKARA AND BAKAROBA DIABATE	FOUROU	SAM077192-4	TC	£ 6.50
Husband and wife, Assita and Bakoroba have got together with Keletigui on balafon and Mama Sissoko on guitar for a lovely album of laid back Malian traditional music. Abdoulaye Samassa, who produced it, has added a bit of Paris style musical improvisation here and there but it doesn't detract from the album's overall ethnic feel as exemplified by the track 'Dougou Mimadia' Gorgeous music and singing throughout.
AZIZ WONDER	JAH IS MY GUIDE	KUNBESO	TC	6.50	COL
Unusual from Mali comes this bright and breezy Reggae album from Aziz and his band. As you would expect it's keyboards and guitar up front but the drummers also get the chance here and there to remind you that they can belt it out as well. The girls in the chorus don't usually get much of a chance but they are lovely and deservedly get to take centre stage on Wary Wary . The album is a bit short on time even with a repeat of the title track but definitely well worth a listen. (F.T.Index: Tchamatchama, Shake Them Down, Pauvre Voyageur Ou Poor Traveler, Wary Wary, Jah Is My Guide ) [6T/28M]
AZIZ WONDER NI PINADJOW	GUELEYA	CFMK79502	TC	6.50	COL
Nice modern Malien style reggae album thats got some very nice and catchy songs.
BABANI KONE	BARIKA	MK79809	TC	£ 10.00
Not to be missed show from the powerhouse voice of Malien diva Babani. Just have a listen.		1. NTA FOLA 2. DIAGNINKO 3. SOYEBA 4. DAGNAN 5. KOBARIKA 6. GNANIMA DJOUGOU 7. MARIE LOUISE 8. SARA NANA
BABANI KONE	SANOU DJALA	STCD1085	CD	12.50	COL
CD release of her cassette CK7335. (8T/38M)
BABANI KONE	SANOU DJALA	CK7335	TC	£ 7.00
A real belter as Babani's deceptively fragile looks hide a voice that rolls like thunder. [8T/43M]
BABILI KANOUTE	CORA	AA002-4	TC	6.50	COL
You do see some wonderful covers on African cassettes and seeing Babili with his cora strapped on his back and riding a little blue moped immediately tells you that he is a travelling musician. What it doesn't tell you though is just how superbly he plays that cora. There's no singing, just the wonderful sounds of a real maestro at work. The beautiful sound of the cora is nearly always in the background so this album is a real gem of a find when that much revered instrument takes centre stage in the hands of a master musician. (F.T.Index: No favourite as all tracks are wonderfull, so have a listen to a bit of Lamban.) [6T/32M]
BACKO DAGNON	KEDO	VOL2	TC	6.50	COL
BACKO DAGNON AND KITA DJELI	NNAH VOL 1	NNAH	TC	6.50	COL
BADIE COULIBALI ET SON ENSEMBLE DIANDJIGUI DE SEGOU	VOL. 2	IK014	TC	6.50	COL
BADIE COULIBALI ET SON ENSEMBLE DIANDJIGUI DE SEGOU	VOL. I	IK013	TC	6.50	COL
Traditional with xalam and some extraordinary guitar playing. Like a soft version of Ali Farka Toure.
BAJOUROU	BIG STRING THEORY	CDORBD078	CD	13.35	COL
BAKOROBA DIABATE	FIFI JOLIE VOL III	BD5007	TC	6.50	COL
Wonderful third album from Bakoroba and his backing singers which more than makes up for the rather lack luster first ones. [4T/30M]
BAMBA DEMBELE ET LE GROUPE	DJOLIBA PERCUSSIONS Vol. 1	SYL8350	TC	£ 10.00
No notes inside so I have no idea who is playing what. I do know that the female singers are really giving it their all as their powerful vocals stream out over the throbbing drums . The band, twelve stong on the cover photo, play flute, balafons, ngoni and kora's as well as the various drums. The music on all tracks belts out right from the start but it's the stunningly thunderous rhythmic drumming that ends each track that will take your breath away. You don't get this in the studios - this is for real. Tracks : Moriata, Mansadin, Yeri Yeri, Fantan Ni Mone, Kouma Magni
BAMBA DEMBELE ET LE GROUPE	DJOLIBA PERCUSSIONS Vol. 2	SYL8351	TC	£ 10.00
Just like Volume 1. tracks this time are Halamandia, Liberia, Djoliba Percussion, Kouma Magni.
BINA COUMARE	VOLUME I	MAIKANO	TC	6.50	COL
Ethnic to the core, a very simple offering from Bina who plays a one string bow lute and is accompanied by various other stringed instruments. The call and response singing is also very simple, Bina sings the song and the other guy just says 'namou' all the way through. There is only one song on the tape which covers both sides and is easily LP length. Every so often the shrill all girl chorus comes in to spice up what can only be described as totally laid back acoustic music. It's never going to make the best sellers list but it is seductive with it's simplicity and beautifully played string sounds.
BINTOU SIDIBE	VOLUME II	SAM182292-4	TC	6.50	COL
Great mix of modern and traditional instruments and music with Bintou's super vocals powering out. My favorite tracks are 'Aye Ben Djila' and 'Tieba' but the real cracker has to be 'Beni Siya' which is outstanding. You may disagree as the varied musical content is great on all the eight tracks. Recommended for anyone who likes the great female singers of Mali.
BLACK FEELING TOUBI	LIBEREZ AFRICA	MAI1072	TC	£ 6.50
BONCANA MAIGA	YALAM LE	WAM793013	LP	£ 10.00
BOUBACAR TRAORE	KONGO MAGNI	46809-2	CD	18.05	COL
BOUBACAR TRAORE	LES ENFANTS DE PIERRETTE	KAR001	TC	£ 10.00
An incredibly atmospheric and totally stunning album from Malian blues guitarist Boubacar that makes his first two Paris released albums actually sound dull in comparison. Having had to endure a live solo performance and believe me I do mean endure, I was absolutely knocked out by this gorgeous release. Blues guitars backed by simple gourd percussion and balafon shouldn't be able to sound this good but they do. I loved that 'Mali Twist' for something really different. Shades of The Shaddows? UTTERLY BRILLIANT. (F.T.Index: Maou Laye Mara, Kele Magni, Mali Twist, Les Enfants de Pierrette, Ba Denou, Kalilou, Touga Magni, Mastri, Bebe Bo Madero.) [9T/56M]
BOUBACAR TRAORE	MACIRE	LBLC2564	CD	£ 14.65
Wow! Having spied the track Les Enfants De Pierrette I was sure this was a CD release of that superb cassette under a new title but it wasn't. Boubacar had actually gone to the studios with Habib Koite and his band Bamada, no less, and recorded a brand new album with new versions of some of his old tracks. To say it is stunning just doesn't do it justice, it is absolutely delicious from start to finish. ( F.T.Index in no particular order: Duna Ma Yelema, Baba Drame, Les Enfants De Pierrette, Samba, Bebe Bo Nadero, Tunga Magni, Courir Un Homme Qui Vous Aime, Macire, Serrer La Main, Kalilou, Solo De Kar Kar, Kar Kar Madison. ) [12T/53M]
BOUBACAR TRAORE	SA GOLO	LBLC2534	CD	14.65	COL
Superb album from velvet voiced guitar maestro Boubacar and his calebasse tapping sidekick Baba Drame. Reminded me straight away of the early sounds of Ali Farka Toure.
CHEICK TIDIANE SECK	MANDIN GROOVE	980117-1	CD	£ 10.00
COUMBA SIDIBE	DJANDJOBA	SAM268	TC	10.00	COL
Wonderful stuff as Coumba and her thunderous warbling get to grips with some smashing new tracks. Bako Keita picks some real mean guitar while Mamadou Sidibe and Lassana Diabate back him on ngoni and bass guitar respectively. Abdoulaye Diabate's keyboards and electric percussion hold onto that traditional rootsy sound that proclaims this to be the music of Mali perfectly. The trouble with Coumba is that her singing style is so musical in itself she doesn't actually need any backing - just listen to her go on Manika Sira, Souba or Djguiballa - pure magic to the ears never mind the tootsies. Who needs music when you can sing like that. ( F.T.Index: Manika Sira, Souba, Djguiballa, Pouikanpoui, Sissi, Tani Gony, Djanjoba, Fouru. ) [8T/51M]		1. DJANDJOBA 2. FOURU 3. MANIKA SIRA 4. SOUBA 5. DJGUIBALLA 6. POUIKANPOUI 7. SISSI 8. TANI GONY
COUMBA SIDIBE	DOUNOUYAN EXPLOSION	SHA02901	TC	6.75	COL
I don't know about explosion, the opening track is more like a damp squib when compared with the Sanghan album. However you have to listen to the fuse fizzing before the dynamite blows your rear end off....and this album is no exception. The primer ignites with 'Ninin' and the main charge goes off with 'Baba'. As with all good things the best is saved until last. A CRACKER. (F.T.Index: Ka Lanongon Yan, Tche Kani Wele, Baba, Ninin)
COUMBA SIDIBE	GNOGONTE	SYL8352	TC	10.00	COL
COUMBA SIDIBE	SANGHAN	FDB300017	CD	11.99	COL
The latest release from Coumba, who has probably the most stunning voice in Mali. She is backed throughout by a guitar and kora led group that plays some of the best music to come out of that part of Africa in recent years Together the 'Voice' and the 'Music' are as near to heaven as I can imagine. Incredibly beautiful. (F.T.Index: Nabahe-Tabahe, Souya, Deligllelema, Djagolla)		1. DJAGOLLA 2. DELIGLLELMA 3. SOUYA 4. LOLAYA 5. SANGHAN 6. SOU 7. KOLIMAGNI 8. NABAHE - TABAHE
DAOUDA SANGARE - FLANI	KAMBELE N'GONI DE GANADOUGOU	OUO15	TC	6.50	COL
Absolutely amazing album of traditional ethnic Malian music and song. I thought I'd heard it all and then this stunner smacks you right between the eyes. From the cover and title I expected some great N'goni playing, which is just what I got along with some superb singing and wonderful percussive accompaniment. However I wasn't expecting the flute player who totally steals the show from all the other traditional instruments with sounds that defy description or even any idea as to how he could produce them. Hearing is believing and this album is simply unique, both fascinating and incredibley beautiful.
DIABA KOITA	KHASSONKE	BIP91CD	CD	£ 11.99
DIARRAH SANOGO	BOUGOUNIERIE	AM91021	TC	6.50	COL
I thought it sounded rather good as soon as the music started but I certainly wasn't prepared for the feast that was to follow. As Diarrah launched into her first song it was apparent that here was a superb album by an artist who was totally unknown outside Mali. Her voice was vibrant, full of the passion and fire that has become synonymous with the Wassoulou sound and the music was absolutely superb as well. Whilst I hadn't come across either Moussa or Saiba Doumbia who were providing the beautiful guitar playing I was overjoyed to find that old friends, sisters, Rokia and Assetou Sidibe ( LES SOEURS SIDIBE ) were belting out the chorus, Just listen to 'em go on Diarabi. (F.T.Index: Diarabi, Faso, Kampa Lare, Pinia Mi You, Djougouya, Avion Billet ) [6T/32M]
DIENABA DIAKITE	FARAFINA LOLO ( VOLUME I )	83121	TC	6.50	COL
Malian magic from one of the top woman artists who's vocal power is beautifully matched by the inspired Kamale Nkoni playing of Oumar Sibide which almost steals the show. Two of the tape's six tracks were featured on 'Women of Wassoulou' STERNS 1035 and if you liked that I can positively say that they didn't get the best tracks from this album. Beautiful music that's guaranteed to be played again and again. RECOMMENDED.
DIENEBA SECK (DJENEBA SECK)	THE TRUTH	STCD1099	CD	£ 11.99
Dieneba Seck started out as an actress, but the beauty and purity of her voice inevitably led to a career as a singer. Her 1991 solo hit 'Kankeletigui' became an anthem during the transition to democracy in Mali and gave her the sobriquet 'the preacher'. After a successful 14-year career, she continues to seek out every nuance and subtlety in her musical compositions and her lyrics comment freely on the social and political problems of Malian society. Delicate touches of percussion, piano and double bass are added to traditional Malian instruments, making 'The Truth' a crystalline acoustic recording full of beauty and wisdom. This is her first full international release, a Syllart Production, arranged by her old mentor Sekou Kouyate and produced by Cameroonian guitarist Yves Ndjock.
DJELIMADY TOUNKARA	SIGUI	LBLC2580	CD	£ 14.65
DJELIMADY TOUNKARA	SOLON KONO	46810-2	CD	£ 14.80
Following the success of his album, Sigui, released in 2001 and honoured with the BBC World Music Award for African music in 2002, Dj‚limady now returns with Solon Kono. He began with Pioneer Jazz in the Missira area of Bamako in the early 1960s and had a special penchant for rock and roll, but this changed with independence and roots consciousness, He became a founder member and soloist of Super Rail Band du Mali, which the started the careers of Salif Keita and Mory Kante, with whom he appears to this day. This album features some of Bamako's hottest young musicians and highlights his exceptional gifts as composer and arranger. Recorded at Bamako's Studio Bogolan during an intense week in September 2004, it is surprisingly mellow. Dj‚limady gives free reign to his improvisational talents on acoustic guitar (as well as on electric guitar on two pieces) in subtle and elegant style. Traditional rhythms are modernised subtly and the assembled cast, including Samba Diabate on guitar, Mariam 'M'Bau' Tounkara, Mariam 'Djodjo' Diabate, Samba Sissoko and Mountaga Diabate on vocals, rock in that imperceptible African way. For Super Rail Band fans there's a glowing version of the Mory Kante classic Sarankegni.
DJELIMADY TOUNKARA AND L'ORCHESTRE SUPER RAIL BAND	ALLO BAMAKO	6133952	CD	£ 13.95
A stunning album that had my ears pricking up like my dog's when the magic word 'Walkies' is said. Wow just drop everything and listen as the band go through a set of songs culled from a variety of LP's recorded and issued in the Ivory Coast and Togo back in the late 70's. Easily eclipses the earlier Rail Band releases in my book. Absolute magic pure and simple.		1. MARIGOUNDO 2. AFFAIR SOCIAL 3. DJIGUIYA 4. YOBALEMA 5. DENIYELEBA 6. NAMA 7. WASSO 8. MA AWABA
DJENEBA DIAKITE	FOUROU	FOUROU	TC	10.00	COL
		1. FOUROU 2. MOUSSOLOU 3. DENWOLO LAHOU 4. WASSA 5. RABBANA 6. NEBA HOUFOLA 7. DJIGUIYE 8. N'GOYE N'GAYE
DJENEBA DIAKITE	GNOGONDEME	MC19	TC	10.00	COL
Back to basics Wassoulou from writer and star singer Djeneba and her group 'Farafina Lolo'. The partnership of Djeneba and composer & guitarist Madou Bah Traore has without the use of keyboard, drum machines or other fripperies produced a superb new album. Madou plays lead, Dramane Traore is on bass, Benogo is on the tinkling n'goni and Drissa Bagayogo pounds it out on the djembe. However much Djeneba's beautifully sung and power packed vocals are enhanced by the lovely chorus of Sata Sidebe and Fanta Doumbia I'm sure you will find that the seductive and throbbing sound of the traditional music is the thing that will stamp itself firmly on you memory. WONDERFUL. (F.T.Index: Kanou, Sora, Djigui, Denko, Gnogondeme, Tunga, Nani, Nelson.) [8T/38M]
DJENEBA DIAKITE	PIRATERIE	09265-2	CD	13.20	COL
This album could be the 'Wassalou Sound' Volume 2 except that it is all sung by one artist! The wonderfully powerful yet sweet voice of Djeneba is on stupendous form backed by some gorgeous music from a whole tribe of Traore's, there's Abdramane on Balafon, Mamadouh Bah on Guitar, Ibrahima on Djembe, Ousmane's vocals and last but by no means least, the wonderful Boubacar on Kamele N'goni instead of his usual Guitar! This album should have been entitled 'The Traore's present Djeneba Diakite'. However it doesn't matter what you call it, the album is an absolute knockout. Originally released on cassette as 'LIBERIA'
DJENEBA SECK	BARIKA BARIKA	CK7263	TC	£ 10.00
Djeneba's singing is simply gorgeous as she belts out another stunning set of songs just as good as, if not better than, those on 'Kankeletigui' if you can remember that album from 1994. Just listen to the beautiful guitar play of Djeli Moussa and Sekou Kouyate accompanied by Lassana and Akorba Diabate. Mamadou Kone and Alpha on n'goni and percussion respectively add a traditional flavour to the music which is enhanced with a few modern flourishes from keyboard wiz Jean Phillip Rykel. However it's the singing of Djeneba and the chorus of Assaita Keita and Kande Diabate that is really outstanding. A real stunner. [6T/31M]		1. BARIKA BARIKA 2. FASSA MAGNI 3. KONKANKOKONONI 4. MALIDENW 5. MAYA Above are the tracks as listed on the cassette. Below are the tracks in the correct order and with the sixth track named. 1. MALIDENW 2. KONKANKOKONONI 3. MAYA 4. FALA 5. BARIKA BARIKA 6. FASSA MAGNI
DJENEBA SECK	DJOUROU	SYLAF96065	CD	12.35	COL
Put together in Paris by Ibrahima Sylla this album has a more Western feel to it but still retains its Malien roots sound. Great backing singing from Nanou Coul and Wande Kouyate while Djely Moussa Kouyate's guitar is on top form. Last but by no means least I must mention the superb input from Senegalese percussionist Thio Mbaye.		1. ATIKORO 2. ABIBAN 3. MALI DJE 4. NDIYANI 5. DJOUROU 6. A MEWOME 7. ARMY MALI 8. NTEN NKO FILE 9. SAMA 1. TILEKE 11. FOUROU 12. KOUMASSE
DJENEBA SECK	KANKELETIGUI	AM92003P92	TC	10.00	COL
This album has swept all before it across Francophone West Africa. With very good reason, Djeneba's voice is on tremendous form, rather like a powered-up version of Nahawa Doumbia if you can imagine that. The gorgeous accompanying music is totally traditional in style but also uses modern instruments to enhance and expand the ethnic sounds. A brilliant album that should without doubt be given a home in every collection of Malian music. (The F.T.Index: Ladilikan, Baro, Mirimagni)		1. KANKELETIGUI 2. BARO 3. MIRIMAGNI 4. LADILIKAN 5. DJOUGOUYA 6. KEWALEDJOUGOU
DJENEBA TRAORE	YAYOROBA	CFMK79504	TC	6.50	COL
DJURU KELENI MOUSSA	SO TULUMA Volume I	MAI2001	TC	6.50	COL
DOGOMANI DAGNON	SANOUKOULE MADY	SAMASSA	TC	6.50	COL
Stupendous stuff all the way through - great music superb vocals but Wawamba's sudden and unexpected end is a bit of a black mark.
DOMANI	WAWAMBA	CDS5513	CD	11.99	COL
DOUMBIA M. SESSE	KONONY	OMA001	TC	10.00	COL
A cracker of an album from Doumbia and his unmentioned backing band. His very striking and razor sharp voice is a real pleasure to hear but its the glittering modern Malian style guitar picking that steals the show at every opportunity - wonderful stuff. The very sweetly sung backing from the also unnamed chorus girls is also pure magic. Definitely gets my recommendation.
DOUNAWKE KOITA	BOBO	BIEN006	TC	£ 6.50
Rather nice I thought and a bit different too but when the drums started to come in it was quite stunning. A modern, up beat and rather danceable album from composer, singer, guitarist and keyboard player Dounawke who could almost be a one man band. However on this very versatile album he does have some very capable help from the super chorus provided by singers, Siaka, Sekou and Mamouna Koita and the drumming of Eric Barre. Whilst the music retains its Malian roots connections, trying to work out the other influences is more difficult, but I'd reckon he has an interest in rock music! ALITTLE BELTER THIS ONE. (F.T.Index: Ouara, Sinsinbo, Yera Seniouwe, CFA, Anzawe, Seniouwe. ) [6T/28M]
ENSEMBLE INSTRUMENTAL	RAOUL FOLLEREAU DE BAMAKO	ARF001	TC	7.50	COL
The inlay card looks like a play school collage but hidden behind it is stunningly beautiful album. The first thing that hits you are the layers of notes cascading from the cora's, and interweaving with the sweetly played balafon, soft percussion and the lovely flutes. As if that wasn't enough the singers are also absolutely wonderful as well. The narration in the homage to Raoul is incredibly atmospheric, its simplicity adds immensely to its beauty. In fact I think this album is one of the most beautiful of all the traditional albums that I've ever heard from West Africa, not just Mali. Miss it at your peril, it's a real stone bonker! (F.T.Index: Hommage A Raoul Follereau, Sabali, Beneko Jaby, Jula Bemba, Mben Diyala. ) [5T/44M]
ENSEMBLE INSTRUMENTAL NATIONAL DU MALI	Volume II	LIASON1	TC	6.50	COL
		1. FASO BAARA 2. DIAWARALA 3. SOGO 4. SOWETO 5. DUNIA 6. DIABA 7. LOUTIGI 8. MAGNOUMAN
ENSEMBLE INSTRUMENTAL NATIONAL DU MALI	VOLUME III	LIASON2	TC	6.50	COL
Another stunning release from the twenty four members of this star studded and elite troupe. Singing their heads off are Souadou Soumano, Oumou & Fatouma Diabate, Dogmani Dagno, Dogmani & Djeneba Doumbia, Fanta & Adama Sacko, Saranfing Kouyate, Noumouncounda Damba, Fissa Maiga, Bintou Sidibe and N'faly & Siriman Sissoko. While the wonderful traditional backing comes from Babily Kanoute on kora, Djelimady & Modibo Diabate on balafons, Makan sacko on djely dounou, Madou Diallo on flute, Fanga Diawara & Mahamane Cisse on traditional violins, Binefou Koita on n'goni, Mady Diallo on m'polon & djembe and finally Abdoulaye Kone on n'tamani. The only other thing to say is that it is an absolutely wonderful album. (F.T.Index: Mama Salia, Securite, Wato Malila, Dialonka, Diaba, Mamadou.) [8T/52M]		1. WATO MALILA 2. DIALONKA 3. SECURITE 4. DIABA 5. MAMOUDOU 6. DAGALY 7. SOSSO 8. MAMA SALIA
ENSEMBLE NATIONAL	INSTRUMENTAL DU MALI	SYL8379	TC	6.50	COL
Original 70's recordings taken from vinyl of the forty strong group that features amongst others such singers as Hawe Drame, Coumba Sidibe and Wande Kouyate before they became household names. In fact probably their first recordings. The music is totally traditional being played by a profusion of koras, balafons, flutes and drums.		1. ZAZURU 2. SAMA 3. LAIDU 4. DIYA YE BANNA 5. NAKANA
FANTA DAMBA	BAHAMADOU SIMOGO	CEL6637	LP	8.00	COL
FANTA DAMBA	MAMADOU MAGADJI	ESP7518	LP	25.00	COL
FANTA DAMBA	SEKOU SEMEGA	SON8210	LP	25.00	COL
FANTA NAYA DIAWARA	ANKA AUTOKOMA DONI DONI	NK7007	TC	6.50	COL
FANTA NAYA DIAWARA	DELI YANGUELIN ( VOLUME II )	AM91002	TC	£ 6.50
This second album from Fanta follows much the same line as her first one except that Sidi Mohamed Koita's lovely guitar features a lot more. I don't know why this should be, as both albums were recorded at the same time and with the same line-up, but this album is slightly more guitar orientated? For that matter the music is also a bit more up-tempo and the style is slightly more Paris than Bamako even if it was recorded at Studio Sequence in Abidjan! (F.T.Index: Deli Yanguelin, Yala Kono, Togola Mourini, Bara Dala, Sabali, ) [6T/34M]
FANTA NAYA DIAWARA	DJAKA WARA ( VOLUME I )	AM91001	TC	6.50	COL
A really lovely album of Wassoulou music from Fanta, who's rough edged vocals compliment Sidi Mohamed Koita's sweetly played guitar perfectly. It's also got some nice drumming and n'goni backing from Solomani & Seydou Camara. Scores a definite ten out of ten on the Wassoulou scale and gets my seal of approval! (F.T.Index: Ikana Dj Or O, Mana Mani, Dibi, N'toman.) [6T/35M]
FANTALY TOUNKARA	KONIYA	KONIYA	TC	6.50	COL
Definitely the strangest singing I've heard from Mali. Fantaly's style has to be unique as her voice provides nearly everything, she doesn't really need the simple percussion & string backing as her voice plays the tunes to perfection.
FANTANI TOURE	DANS BOZOLA	BOZOLA	TC	£ 10.00
Released in 2000 for local consumption in Mali on cassette only. It comes three years after Sterns CD release of N'tin Naari and follows the same mix of modern and semi traditional Bambara music. To some it may be a bit rough and ready but to others it is just beautiful. I'm definitely one of the latter.		1. YAKARE 2. YA-ARIYA 3. BESSE FOLY 4. DJUDJOU 5. DJUKUSSAKA 6. BOZOLA 7. MUSSELOUW 8. NALOMA 9. DEN-KELE 10. KELEMASSADEN 47 MINUTES
FANTANI TOURE	N'TIN NAARI (Salif Keita presents)	STCD1080	CD	£ 12.50
FASSERI BAGAYOKO	VOLUME I	DK0001	TC	6.50	COL
Ethnic music with probably a very limited appeal, until you hear it full blast on your hi-fi system. (Go on scare the neighbours). Call and response vocals backed by locally produced traditional instruments. Trance inducing music that's marvellous to listen to when you're too tired for all the 'hot' sounds.
FASSERI BAGAYOKO	VOLUME II	DK0002	TC	6.50	COL
FATOUMATA KOUYATE	AKILIMA	1992	TC	6.50	COL
FISSA MAIGA	MALI ISSA BERO	83125	TC	6.50	COL
Calebasse and simple violon play side by side with the guitars on this superb traditional album. The music and singing remind me very much of Ali Farka Toure's earlier albums. Simple percussive backing with the guitar picking out the tune over the violon, to this Fissa adds her own and the girls lovely vocals. Yehia Arby's solo guitar is brilliant throughout but he really comes into his own on the final track 'Hayira Chen'no'. A smooth but vibrant album that is now a firm favorite of mine without a doubt.
FODE KOUYATE	ANKA WILI	38123-2	CD	£ 10.00
A real cracker of an album from start to finish. Manding musical styles using kora, ngoni and flute for the more ethnic tracks and combining guitar, drums and horns somewhat like 'Soro' to stamp the 'Paris' style firmly onto the others. The line up includes Papa Kouyate on percussion, Djely Moussa Kouyate and Kemo Kouyate on guitar plus Ismael Lo puts in an appearance on the track 'Diouma'. FANTASTIC ALBUM.
FODE KOUYATE	ANKA WILI	SYL83147	TC	£ 3.00
FREDERIC GALLIANO	AFRICAN DIVAS (3 TRX ELECTRONICA)	F153W2	12in	£ 5.00
GANDA FADIGA	ECONOMIE	CK7006	TC	7.00	COL
One of two albums that I've been after for ages. It's not just Ganda's deep and resonant vocals that enthral the listener but also the deceptively simple but astonishingly beautiful sound of the xalam* and guitar with simple calabash percussion accompaniment. It reminded me very much of Ibrahim Hamma Dicko or the early style of Ali Farka Toure when I first heard him. ( F.T.Index : Poye, Economie, N'boundy, Segailare, N'diarou, Farra. ) [6T/47M] * five string lute.
GANDA FADIGA	Vol. 2 KAKA BALI	CK7121	TC	7.00	COL
Another one of a set of albums that I've been after for ages. ( F.T.Index :Kaka Bali, Fara Boubou Aradoguli Massina, M'bodi Sandiara Hayere, Ladji Diegue Saranbounou Bakari Diawara. ) [4T/M]
GROUPE TINARWEN	TENERE	GT	TC	6.50	COL
Arabic style music with beautifully played electric guitar fronting the throbbing beat of the drums. The sort of thing you might expect to get from Lem Chaheb when they haven't got Dissidenten around! The singing from this four guys in the group is quite hypnotic and with the rhythmic hand clapping it comes across as a very pleasant album. I particularly liked the 'Hari Krishna' style chant on Attaye and its lovely guitar, pure magic. (F.T.Index: Tenere, Attaye, I Touss Char, El Ghorba.) [8T/39M]
HABIB KOIT� & BAMADA	FOLY - LIVE AROUND THE WORLD ( 2 x CD )	CJ011	CDx2	£ 19.95
A superb double CD culled from selected concerts, Foly acts more as a compilation of Habib's work than solely as a live record. Blistering performances by one of the finest African bands on the planet.
HABIB KOITE AND BAMADA	BARO	PUT192-2	CD	12.95	COL
HABIB KOITE AND BAMADA	MA YA	PUTU146-2	CD	11.99	COL
Stunning.
HABIB KOITE AND BAMADA	MOUSSO KO	HABIBCD001	CD	11.99	COL
A long awaited album release from one of the rising stars of modern Malian music. Singer, song writer and guitarist, Habib has here added nine extra tracks to his original hit single tape 'Cigarette Abana & Sirabulu' that was released back in 1993. No matter what type of music he plays, fast or slow, modern or semi-traditional - he gives it a new musical slant. Souleymane Ann provides the furious drumming and backing vocals while Wahab Berthe and Boubacar Sidibe belt it out with their powerful Malian style guitar playing. The stunning percussive sounds of traditional instruments such as tamani, taman-ba, cragnan balafon, djembe and barra come courtesy of Baba Sissoko and Sidiki Camara. Dance wise, the last but one track 'Kunfe Ta' with its pounding drums, throbbing guitars and driving vocals is a masterpiece of dance floor mania. Thankfully you've still got the atmospheric and acoustic 'Koulandia' to wind down with. PURE MAGIC. (F.T.Index: Nimato, Cigarette Abana, Kunfe Ta, Nanale, Din Din Wo, I Ka Barra, Muso Ko, Sira Bulu, Koulandia Den Ko, Fatima.) [11T/54M]
HABIB KOITE AND BAMADA	MOUSSO KO	MRCD187	CD	£ 13.65
A long awaited album release from one of the rising stars of modern Malian music. Singer, song writer and guitarist, Habib has here added nine extra tracks to his original hit single tape 'Cigarette Abana & Sirabulu' that was released back in 1993. No matter what type of music he plays, fast or slow, modern or semi-traditional - he gives it a new musical slant. Souleymane Ann provides the furious drumming and backing vocals while Wahab Berthe and Boubacar Sidibe belt it out with their powerful Malian style guitar playing. The stunning percussive sounds of traditional instruments such as tamani, taman-ba, cragnan balafon, djembe and barra come courtesy of Baba Sissoko and Sidiki Camara. Dance wise, the last but one track 'Kunfe Ta' with its pounding drums, throbbing guitars and driving vocals is a masterpiece of dance floor mania. Thankfully you've still got the atmospheric and acoustic 'Koulandia' to wind down with. PURE MAGIC. (F.T.Index: Nimato, Cigarette Abana, Kunfe Ta, Nanale, Din Din Wo, I Ka Barra, Muso Ko, Sira Bulu, Koulandia Den Ko, Fatima.) [11T/54M]
HADJA SOUMANO	AIGLES DU MALI	ADJA001	TC	£ 3.00
A little gem here from Hadja named after the national football team who are known as the 'Eagles of Mali'. Hadja's stunning vocals are backed up by the the chorus of Mai Baby and Fatoumata Kaloga. Guitarists Djelimady Tounkara, Sambaly Soumano and Moussa Diabate team up well with Dave Gilden's kora and keyboard. There are only two songs on the album with two so called instrumental versions, not quite so much singing but a lot more kora than keyboards and I must admit that I liked the Instrumental versions much more. (F.T.Index: Sambe Sambe (Instrumental), Aigles du Mali (Instrumental), Sambe Sambe, Aigles du Mali. ) [4T/28M] Both of the tracks on side 'A' are on 'The Best Of...' but not on the 'Nteri Diaba' or 'Tounga Magni' albums. The two instrumental versions are only on this album.
HADJA SOUMANO	NTERI DIABA	SYL8393	TC	0.00	COL
A simply stupendous album of Malian praise singing that should be used as the benchmark against which all the others are measured. Boncana Maiga is in the driving seat and on keyboards with Djelimady Tounkara and Moussa Diabate on guitar, Moriba Koita on ngoni and not forgetting Djely Mady Diabate on balafon. Hadja's vocals are simply staggering. An all time great 'Must have it' album. ( F.T. Index. Ayebo, Boureima Sylla, Mandin Kono.)		CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO SYL8393 Track. Boureima Sylla
HADJA SOUMANO	THE BEST OF	HADJA	CD	10.00	COL
A fourteen track compilation with all the tracks from Tounga Magni, Les Aigles du Mali and Nteri Diaba with the exception of the two Les Aigles instrumental versions.
HADJA SOUMANO	THE BEST OF.... ( From Tounga Magni AND Nteri Diaba )	EMK004H	TC	£ 7.50
A fabulous compilation from 'Nteri Diaba' and 'Tounga Magni' which sadly are no longer available. However eight of the best tracks out of the twelve plus two from 'Aigles Du Mali' are on this album and what a cracker it is too. ( F.T. Index: Tounga Magni, Ayebo, Boureima Sylla. ) [10T/56M]
HADJA SOUMANO	TOUNGA MAGNI	SAM0401924	TC	0.00	COL
Flaming brilliant and that's putting it mildly! A mix of modern and traditional instruments played with superb precision and thought to Hadja's fantastic vocals. Very modern in style but totally retaining its traditional roots, this album is definitely set to be a 'Classic'. Innovation wise you can't beat the kora played in lead guitar style on the last track. I wouldn't say that this album was the pick of the newsletter more like the 'PICK OF THE YEAR'! ABSOLUTELY STUNNING.		CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO SAM0401924 Track. Lountamba
HANK JONES AND CHEICK TIDIANE SECK - MALI, U.S.A.	SARALA	528783-2	CD	12.95	COL
World renowned jazz pianist Hank Jones at 80 years of age meets with his roots in the shape of Cheick Tidiane Seck and the Mandinkas. Who are the Mandinkas? ....Cesar Anot, Moriba Koita, Djely Moussa Conde, Assitan 'Mama' Keita, Sekou Diabate, Aly Wague, Amina Annabi, Lansine Kouyate, Ousmane Kouyate, Mare Sanogo, Maniam Damba, Djely Moussa Kouyate, Moussa Sissokho, Eric Vinceno, Kasse Mady Diabate, Jorge Amorim, Tom Diakite, Fatoumata 'Mama' Kouyate and last but not least Kante Manfila. What a line-up, what music, absolutely stunning.
HAWA DRAME	DJANDION	SYL8384	TC	6.00	COL
Another one of those lovely traditional albums that very rarely find their way onto the record shop shelves. Hawa's voice is very definitely outstanding on songs that are quite basic. The nearly all string orchestration with just a bit of simple calabash percussion is definitely worth a much closer listen especially if you're into Malian roots music. A couple of the songs have been a bit roughly recorded but that just adds to the rustic charm of the music as a whole. Long and lovely to listen to throughout although a couple of tracks do end a bit suddenly. ( F.T.Index: Djandion, Mbaoudi, Demeba, So Danso, Diambandjo, Mayabe Diyabo. ) [6T/48M]
HAWA DRAME	NAMABLE	SYL8391	TC	6.50	COL
HAWA DRAME	SADA DIALLO VOLUME 1	SAM077492-4	TC	£ 10.00
Tracks: Sada Diallo, Damba Yorodjan, Den Batiguiya, Dion Be Ni Dakan, Sira Dala Sama, Aye Woyo Dadonkan, Maakan Mangnie, Ika Kanou Bi Kanou.
HAWA DRAME	YELEMA	CK001	TC	£ 10.00
One of those lovely traditional albums that very rarely find their way onto the record shop shelves. Hawa's voice is outstanding on songs that are very basic but the nearly all string orchestration is definitely worth a much closer listen especially if you're into Malian roots music. Seven tracks, very long and lovely to listen to throughout.
IBRAHIM HAMMA DICKO	GAO	09272-2	CD	13.20	COL
IBRAHIM HAMMA DICKO	GAO	CFMK79503	TC	£ 6.50
IBRAHIM HAMMA DICKO	MARIANA	83120	TC	6.50	COL
Finally in stock after a six month wait but it was worth waiting for. Ibrahim sings very much like Ali Farka Toure but with a much more musical backing which includes some exquisite playing on traditional instruments and some super guitar to help it all along but it's the traditional violin that steals the show for me. SUPERB ALBUM IN EVERY WAY AND DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED.
IBRAHIM HAMMA DICKO	RADIO	SS-10	TC	6.50	COL
Released back in 1989 this album has until now defeated all my efforts to get hold of it. Ibrahim sings very much in the same style as Ali Farka Toure and this album is very like the early material that brought Ali to the forefront of the Malian blues scene. It's the exquisite playing of traditional instruments such as the violin and the gourd percussion that steals the show from the guitar which shines out in latter releases by both Ali and Ibrahim. A wonderful album of uncomplicated but very fragrant music. (F.T.Index: Radio Bissindie, Kouboye Direye Sete, Taziro, Tiega, Hiny Nawa. ) [5T/43M]
IDRISSA SISSOKO	ILOO	OU001	TC	£ 6.50
A very intriguing Pot-pourri of an album from singer, composer and guitarist Idrissa and his session band. The opening track N'gasso with its zouky, almost nursery rhyme sound thudding out Malian style from the drums is a portent of something very different to come. The guitar of Don Modia Diakite shines out from the blues based Sontan while reggae forms the basis of Afrikaya Dance . There is also a bit of rather nice jazz with some funky horns on the title track, a hint of jive and lots more in this lovely musical jigsaw puzzle. It's also the first album produced by Studio Oubien in Bamako. (F.T.Index: N'gasso, Sontan, Afrikaya Dance, Afriki Den Nyuman. ) [8T/35M]
INA BABA COULIBALY	ALLAH HOLLAME SIDI MODIBO	CK7031	TC	10.00	COL
A wonderful traditional album from superb singer Ina who's echoing nasal toned vocals are a delight to hear. Not only the singing is great, the music is too, with Sekou Kouyate and Djeli Moussa Kouyate playing with care and precision on guitars, Fode Tounkara playing brilliantly on n'goni and Djoke Sissoko on traditional flute. ( F.T.Index: Woullou Maliki Gagne, Dimoyaoutata Barkinade, Allah Hollame Sidi Modibo, Borou Djenga Niadia, Faguimba Keita, Samba Sissoko, Ainabe Tiedou, Gollobe Mali. ) [8T/42M]
INA BABA COULIBALY	LOBO	LOBO	TC	7.00	COL
Wonderful traditional album from superb singer Ina with Sekou Kouyate on guitar, Abdoulaye Sackone on n'goni, Djoke Sissoko on traditional flute and bass and percussion by Bako Keita plus the booming doundoumba played by Moriba Koita who also plays n'goni. Add to that the voices of Mama Assitan Keita & Niama Tounkara and you've got one hell of an album. ( F.T.Index: Mamipiaka, Asnaleile, Yomi, Lobo, Lelima, Mbidone, Alawela, Ndjawounane, Sambasada, Wadjou Sidy. ) [10T/41M]
ISSA BAGAYOGO	FENGUE	0AA016	TC	6.50	COL
A terrific album if you are looking for true ethnic sounds. Vocalist Issa is accompanied only by the beautifully laid back sound of the ngoni and percussion provided by very simple metallic rasping and hand clapping. It might not sound too interesting at first glance but once you hear Issa's very powerful and deeply melodic story telling voice I'm sure you'll change your mind. Almost hypnotic in it's simplicity I would rate it as the best of it's style that I've heard to date.
ISSA BAGAYOGO	SYA	09292-2	CD	£ 12.50
ISSA COULIBALY	CA VA	EMK004	TC	£ 5.00
The incisiveness in the voice of singer Issa stands out beautifully above the soft singing of the chorus girls on this quite modern sounding album. The use of horns and keyboards places the music into the present-day but the Malian style guitar and balafon backing retains its true identity throughout. I must say that I found it rather adictive and will be on the lookout for more of the same. (F.T.Index: Ca Va, Bi Mogo Ya, Nassongoko, Je M'en Fou. ) [6T/30M]
JAH YOUSSOUFOU	NE TUN BE MI	MAI2004	TC	6.50	COL
KADJA TANGARA	SEGUIN MAGNI	HYBONISS001	TC	10.00	COL
Modern Malian music beautifully sung by the gorgeously voiced Kadja and her four girls. Basically ethnic instrumentation with the addition of guitar and keyboards make for some really rhythmic music, mind you, having the arrangements made by non other than Boncana Maiga certainly helps. BEAUTIFUL ALBUM.		1. SEGUIN MAGNI 2. KONIFALE 3. BALLONTA NAOU 4. KELE TCHEOU 5. KALIFA 6. BARA
KAGBE SIDIBE	KOULOUMBA VOLUME I	MAI1056	TC	6.50	COL
A real stunner of a first album from Malien songstress Kagbe with some beautiful backing from the guitars of Bayini Koita and Amadou Bagayoko. Boy, can those guys tweak the old strings or what? As if that wasn't enough Kagbe also has the superb backing vocals of Hawa Mahawa & Pauline Doumbia which really adds the finishing touch to what can only be described as a Wassoulou masterpiece. I haven't heard Vol II yet but I've already got it on order. Be warned, nail down the furniture as this girl is brilliant. (F.T.Index: Patron, Dje Kani Djeli, Brehima, Kouloumba. ) [6T/34M]
KAGBE SIDIBE	L'ADIEU	MGS1114	TC	10.00	COL
		1. DOUGOUNALO 2. SARAMA 3. MORILE 4. U.T.B. 5. FANTAN DIMI 6. DJOMBENI 7. MELEKE 8. SEYDOU FANTA
KAGBE SIDIBE	VOLUME II	KAGBE2	TC	10.00	COL
		1.SIMBO 2. MORODJAN 3. SOGONAKAN 4. FANGATA (Kassimou) 5. IMAKOUYE 6. DEN KAGNI
KAIRA BEN	SINGA	STCD1072	CD	£ 12.50
Strong vocals from Idrissa Magassa are backed in jazzed up traditional style by Abdramme Fall - percussion, Keletigui Diabate - balafon, Makan Tounkara - ngoni, Tidiane Kone - saxes/trumpet, Zou Diarra & Moussa Diakite - guitars, Cheikh Tidiane - keyboards amd Mama Keita - backing vocals. Rather nice. [8T/38M]
KALORY SORY	RASTA MALIEN	SYL83124	TC	£ 6.50
Now resident in the Ivory Coast he is a Reggae singer mainly in the Malinke language of his native Mali. Nice vocals from Kalory and his three girls plus a rich backing sound from Emmett McDonald on trombone, Kwame Divine on trumpet and Manu Yodan on sax. In general it's pretty laid back sound but I particularly like 'Nga Taffe' on side two. Nice album all round.
KAMALE NGONI	KELEA	LBLC2517	CD	£ 14.65
The kamale n'goni is constructed in the traditional manner, calabash, skin, wooden neck like the kora, but it's a modern instrument created in the 1960's by the rebel hunters of the Wassolou region of Mali. Rough and packed with emotion, it brings alive the sound of its rebel origins, before the trendiness that made it a favourite of the young Malien generation. Alou Fane and Daouda Sangare have come to symbolise the ferocious attachment to its roots and at the same time a great creative freedom. Joining them is Djourou Diallo who's haunting bambara flute playing is simply stunning. (9T/45M)
KANAGA DE MOPTI	PAWI	PAWI	TC	6.50	COL
From the city of Mopti in the centre of Mali come the traditional group 'Kanaga' and although they play instruments both traditional and modern its almost impossible to hear any modern sounds what so ever! The powerful voice of Sekou Diankouba and the chorus girls definitely takes a back seat on the album. In the driving seat is the strangely un-named flute player who steals the show from both the singers and the other musicians. The overall effect of the music is one of peace and tranquillity with the loudest sounds actually coming from the rhythmic handclapping of the chorus girls. Definitely one for those hot summer evenings in the garden with an ice cold four pack! Lovely. (F.T.Index: Pawi, Ngoloni kelen, Danane, Kounali. ) [8T/50M]
KANDIA KOUYATE	BALASSAMA	AD001	LP	25.00	COL
KANDIA KOUYATE	BIRIKO	STCD1095	CD	£ 12.50
KANDIA KOUYATE	KITA KAN	STCD1088	CD	12.50	COL
This is Malian diva, Kandia's first CD release and was the cassette 'Woulale' with two extra tracks added. [9T/65M]
KANDIA KOUYATE	SA KUNU SA	SA KUNU	TC	10.00	COL
Recorded at Studio Liaison in Bamako, this album is a lovely example of traditional singing from the rich and power packed voice of Kandia. It is also a superb example of traditional music with notes cascading from the balafon, kora strings tinkling and the throb of the n'goni all the way through. Thankfully they managed to keep the bleedin synth well caged and away from the music. Just one minute short of an hour of pure bliss. Miss it at your peril, they don't make many albums this good. (The F.T.Index: Alla Le Djon Sona, Kita Kourou, Mande Mansa, Lagare)
KARAMOKO KEITA	SAHRAMA	SAM077392-4	TC	6.50	COL
A lovely album of traditional style Malian music and singing with modern instrumentation taking on the roll of the Kora and Balafon beautifully. A recipe with more than a hint of Parisienne spicing that gives the music a slightly modern flavour. Karamoko's strong but smooth vocals fit in perfectly with the music and the girls typically sharp chorus line adds the cutting edge. Slow and melodic the music captures the timeless essence of the Malian sound wonderfully.
KARAMOKO NIANG	DIARABI MOUSSO VOLUME II	BM518	TC	6.50	COL
Like the first volume this album also sounds very much like the famous 'Super Biton De Segou'. Once again its the guitars that shine, in fact even more so here than on the first album. Lovely atmospheric vocals throughout from Karamoko with Oumou Diabate getting up front on Niemina which adds to the mystique. But what the hell is 'M'bolo Bila' - Mali's answer to 'Country & Western' maybe! The final track is quite different to the others but its the cracker of the album with its Afro-Cuban sound pounding out. So good in fact that it had to be on the sampler. ( Also there is a little un-credited finishing track ) (F.T.Index: Macourouni, Tere, Mosso Fourou Wari, Diarabi mousso, M'bolo Bila, ) [6T/28M]
KARAMOKO NIANG AND ENSEMBLE DE SEGOU	DABAKALA VOLUME I	BM517	TC	6.50	COL
You should never judge a book by the cover or a tape from its inlay picture. I thought this was just another traditional album but its a modern soft bluesy sound that powers out and whose style can be traced back to that other famous outfit from Segou - 'Super Biton'. Karamoko's powerful and gravelly voice is superb but it's Kalifa Kone who steals the show with some stunningly beautiful guitar playing. Other famous names in the line-up, although possibly not 'the' names, are Boubacar Traore and Zani Diabate on percussion and Oumou Diabate in the chorus. Either way its a gorgeous album. (F.T.Index : Souniele, Merouba, Kaira, Salubrite ) [6T/28M]
KASSE MADY	FODE	STCD1025	CD	8.25	COL
KASSE MADY	FODE	STERNS1025	LP	£ 7.00
KASSE MADY	KELA TRADITION	STERNS1034	LP	7.00	COL
KENE STAR SIKASSO	LALA	CK7102	TC	10.00	COL
Blimey! You just gotta read this.... It's got a tinny sounding horn line up. It's got warbling keyboards. It's got twangy guitars and a variety of squeaky voiced singers and was probably rather roughly recorded back in the 70's. Having said that it is absolutely 'bleedin' gorgeous from end to end. Oh! If only they could make more music like this. INCREDIBLE.		1. LALA (21'27) 2. HODI HU YENYAN (5'34) 3. KENE OUGU FANGA (7'29) 4. FITRIWALE (6'47)
KOKO DEMBELE	AFRIQUE DIORE , BAGUINEE	HYBONISS002Y	TC	6.50	COL
Definitely the smoothest African Reggae inspired album that I've heard for a long time. Koko, a Malien who sings in the Bambara language has a charismatic voice with a beautifully melodic style. The African influence in the music is unmistakable, somewhat like Senegalese group 'Toure Kunda' but with more Reggae overtones. The backing of Zakaria Namboue on lead, Boko Didier on bass, Manu Yodan and Robert Alolah on tenor sax and trumpet respectively with keyboard wizard Geroges Kouakakou make for a really stunning album. DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED.
KOUYATE SEKOUBA AND SOBA KANTE		CM11VY	TC	4.50	COL
Recorded in the Ivory Coast the first half of this album is basically Mandingue in style but has lots of Paris style overtones mixed in. Horns, drums and guitars rather than balafon and kora. Side one is great but side two's first track is awful! I'm not kidding, mind you the second track takes some beating. Party time Zairean style now takes over and really makes up for it. Well worth getting.
LALA DIABATE	Vol. 1 , NKANOU	CK7033	TC	£ 10.00
A lovely musical mixture from what appears to be a modern backing band fighting for supremacy over a traditional ensemble and loosing - ha ha! On the trad side you've got ngoni, various drums, flutes, balafon and percussion while on the modern side there are guitars, drums and a bit of background keyboard. Lala's voice with its distinctive nasal drone booms out over the battling musicians to great effect and there's a nice chorus to take over when she's not belting it out. ( F.T.Index: Djougoule, Dounigna Baro, Nkanou, Lalla, Dia, Sougoulon. ) [6T/33M]
LALLA DIABATE	WASSOULOU KAW	MAI2003	TC	6.50	COL
LES AMBASSADEURS DE MOTEL	DIANDJON	SAF50.014	LP	0.00	COL
Original Ambassadeurs from 1976 with Salif Keita singing.		1. DIANDJON 2. WARA 3. KIBARU
LES AMBASSADEURS DE MOTEL DE BAMAKO	VOLUME 1	SAF50.030	LP	15.00	COL
Wonderful album released back in 1977 with singing from Salif Keita, Ousmane Dia and Kante Manfila. ( F.T.Index: Yassoumouka, Fatema, Super Pitie, Bolola Sanou, Mali Denou, Sabar, Saranfing. ) [7T/41M]
LES AMBASSADEURS INTERNATIONAL	WITH SALIF KEITA	ROUCD5053	CD	13.85	COL
LES AMBASSADEURS INTERNATIONAUX	MANDJOUGOULON , WASSOLON-FOLI	CEL6635	LP	£ 25.00
		1. DJOUGOUYA 2. WASSOLON-FOLI 3. BARA WILILE 4. MANDJOUGOULON
LES ASSELARDS	REVELATIONS 82	AS007	LP	8.00	COL
LES SOEURS SIDIBE	NI LA KANI	MAIKANO1070	TC	£ 10.00
Sisters Rokia and Assetou who I'd not come across before have got to be one of the hottest sounds to come out of Mali. Music that reminded me of the classic 'Zani Diabate and the Super Djata band' and vocals that sound slightly reminiscent of the 'Lijadu sisters'. Put the two together and you've got an incredibly brilliant album. Like the sisters I don't recognise any of the musicians but they are all fantastic, tam tam - Mamane Samake, kamale n'goni, karignan and guitars - Souleymane Sidebe and Kader Gueye, keyboards and percussion programming - Ernest Dompreh. If this album doesn't get you charging round the dance floor then you've probably died. Check your pulse. HOT & BRILLIANT!		1. NI LA KANI 2. MBEBA 3. DEMISSIN KANI 4. SABALI 5. NTOGOMA 6. FILI FIN
LOBI TRAORE	BAMAKO	82893-2	CD	12.50	COL
LOBI TRAORE	BAMAKO	AA024	TC	£ 6.50
Lobi's latest release follows the same formula as his electric version of Bambara Blues but a shade more up-beat and more drum orientated with Yaya Dembele's djembe throbbing out an almost overpowering beat, just hear him go on Deni Kele. Ali Farka Toure also lends a hand or two with the clapping and production but leaves the gorgeous guitaring to Lobi, Pascal Hubert and Moryene Kalan, and what a lovely job they make of it too. PURE BAMBARA MAGIC. (F.T.Index: Fatoumabe, Sabaminya, Deni Kele, Maby Djoudjon Don, Nama Da Yele, Djankana, Banani. ) [10T/60M]
LOBI TRAORE	BAMBARA BLUES	82816-2	CD	13.20	COL
This CD is in fact two absolutely amazing cassette albums featuring the same set of songs but played as differently as chalk and cheese! The first album showed the roots of the Blues like I've never heard before. Great traditional vocals and guitar from songwriter Lobi, Stephane Sarlin & Michel Jules while the throbbing drums come courtesy of Zani Diabate no less, on Djembe and Djelli Baba Sissoko on Tamari plus the magic flute of Mamadou Diallo. In the second album Lobi together with fellow guitarist Wurrie Moktar and percussionists Eric Barre and Philippe Berthier get together at Studio Oubien in Bamako and make an electric version of the same Bambara blues songs that have now become classic. Lobi's soft vocals and gorgeous guitaring floats around Wurrie's hypnotic rythms with effortless ease. Superb.
LOBI TRAORE	DUGA	09289-2	CD	13.85	COL
LOBI TRAORE	MALI BLUE	DFGCD8574	CD	13.85	COL
LOBI TRAORE	SEGOU	09275-2	CD	13.85	COL
On this album, Lobi and his band once again mix the traditional blues sounds of the Bambara with electric guitars. However this time to start with the guitars are played in an somewhat U.S. blues style rather than Malian. Half way through he reverts to the rich and magical traditional sounds of the Bambara region with three stunning tracks that really bring to the fore the ever faster and faster percussion and wild vocals. The final track, which is my favourite, is recorded live and is to my mind equal to, if not better than, the 'Blind Couple of Mali's' stunning 'DiYe La Tigue' which it resembles in many ways. Sublime guitaring and vocals throughout. (F.T.Index: Ni Tougou La Mogo Minko, Korote Massiki, Grayere Nafun, Kassima Soumaya, Tjounde, Kanu La Bin, Sadiourou, Maya Ye Sanka Ye, Kunanadi.) [9T/48M]
LOBI TRAORE	SEGOU	AA9601	TC	£ 6.50
On this album, Lobi and his band once again mix the traditional blues sounds of the Bambara with electric guitars. However this time to start with the guitars are played in an somewhat U.S. blues style rather than Malian. Half way through he reverts to the rich and magical traditional sounds of the Bambara region with three stunning tracks that really bring to the fore the ever faster and faster percussion and wild vocals. The final track, which is my favourite, is recorded live and is to my mind equal to, if not better than, the 'Blind Couple of Mali's' stunning 'DiYe La Tigue' which it resembles in many ways. Sublime guitaring and vocals throughout. (F.T.Index: Ni Tougou La Mogo Minko, Korote Massiki, Grayere Nafun, Kassima Soumaya, Tjounde, Kanu La Bin, Sadiourou, Maya Ye Sanka Ye, Kunanadi.) [9T/48M]
L'ORCHESTRE NATIONAL - A	DE LA REPUBLIQUE DU MALI	BM30L2605	LP	10.00	COL
MADJAN DOUMBIA	N'BESSOKOMA	CK7118	TC	10.00	COL
		1. N'BESSOKOMA 2. BENSSEMAN 3. BIMOGOLOU 4. LEROULE 5. DJIGUIASSI 6. DIANE
MAH DAMBA	MALI: THE VOICE OF THE MANDE	927492	CD	12.30	COL
MAH DAMBA	PORY	SYL8371	TC	6.50	COL
MAH DAMBA AND MAMAYE KOUYATE	DEN NIALE	CK7332	TC	6.50	COL
Wonderful album of traditonal music and singing from Mah and her ngoni and flute playing husband Mamaye. The three guitarists are up front but there's plenty of n'goni, balafon and flute bringing up the rear. Not a keyboard or drum machine in sight and boy can Mah get the old tonsils throbbing. Smashing voice, great music, a beaut of an album. ( F.T.Index: Konami, Den Kolo, Lahidou, Saya, Sowou Tara, Niarela, Ndialla, Den Niale. ) [6T/38M]
MAIMOUNA	SONGS OF MALI	PS65226	CD	14.50	COL
MAIMOUNA DEMBELE	FARAFINA DJOGO	OK027	TC	10.00	COL
You could tell this was going to be a good album simply by the beautiful soft singing and lovely music. The variety of instruments being used was starting to sound more like an orchestra so when the horn section came in I had to checked out the inlay card and who should be in there - none other than - NATIONAL BADEMA. Long time , no hear, but now back with Maimouna instead of Kasse Mady and with a very impressive album to boot. Maimouna's voice is soft and soothing as is the singing from the girls in the chorus but its the georgeous music of National Badema that really makes this album superb. Loved it all the way through. (F.T.Index: Daamu, Jeeya, R T M , Ngoyo, So Bin Do.) [6T/34M]		Track:Jeeya
MAMA KOITA	NOUVELLE GENERATION	BGDA92008	TC	6.50	COL
Another superb album from Boncana Maiga which once again highlights the sheer beauty and danceability of the Malian/Paris fusion. You will be taken from the start with Mama's wonderful voice but backing her you have also got three Diabate's, Doussouba, Bako and Oumou. The music comes from a mix of instruments with traditional Ngoni, Kora and Balafon playing side by side with Horns, Guitars and Keyboards.
MAMA KOITA AND DOUNANKE KOITA	BE K'I JANTO	BIEN018	TC	6.50	COL
MAMA SISSOKO	AMOURS JARABI	82940-2	CD	£ 12.50
MAMA SISSOKO	SOLEIL DE MINUIT	82990-2	CD	12.50	COL
MAMADOU DOUMBIA	KELEA DIOUGOU	CK7047	TC	6.50	COL
Top Malian star Mamadou alias 'Percey' realy belting out the Manding sound with gorgeous backing vocals from Mama Keita and Aissata Demba. Papa Kouyate on percussion is helped by the marvelous Djele Moussa Kouyate and Sekou Kouyate who provide the guitar magic that has the whole album throbbing from end to end. Just have a listen to my favorite track, 'Secheresse'. The ethnic sound really belting the hell out of the Paris style and showing how it should be played. STUNNING ALL THE WAY.
MAMANY KOUYATE	THE GOLDEN VOICE OF MALI	PS65283	CD	£ 14.80
In a country famed for its astonishing array of female musical talent it can be hard for a new singer to make an impression. In Mali, Mamany Kouyat‚ made such an impression she was invited to perform for visiting royalty. In the West she is best known for her contribution to the famed 'Sarala' album, by Hank Jones with Cheikh Tidiane Seck. This new album exhibits her stunning voice in traditional and contemporary musical settings, and proves she can be ranked up among the best singers in Mali.
MAMOU SAMAKE	L'ENFANT DE DJITOUMOU	OK035	TC	6.50	COL
I had never heard of Mamou until now but after hearing this album I'll be keeping an eye out for any more of her releases. The album is pure Wassoulou but what makes it stand out from the rest is the way the musicians, especially all the percussionists, creep up and overtake the singers. There is also some smashing guitar playing which sails over and around the more traditional sounds of the balafon and n'goni. A very beautiful album in every department and an absolute must for anyone who likes the Wassoulou sound. PERFECTION. (F.T.Index: Diarabi, Dounouya Magni, Toubani Kele, Djin Djin Kono, Kanou Dogolen, Djoula Nagnewa,) [6T/29M]
MAMOU SIDIBE	NAKAN	9912	TC	10.00	COL
		1. MOGO 2. BASSA KELE 3. DONI TABA 4. KAFO 5. BE TA LAME 6. NAKAN 7. DIARABI 8. NIMISSA
MARIAM BAGAYOGO	SENE - KONO	SENE	TC	10.00	COL
		1. SENE 2. KONO
MARIAM DIAKITE	VOLUME I	SY001	TC	6.50	COL
MATTHA FATOU	YAFAMA	LX93033	LP	10.00	COL
One of the first African records I bought back in the early 80's which I was told came from Cameroon although now I am more inclined now to say Mali. Mattha sings ever so sweetly like some little girl lost while Kitsuku and Meiway play some haunting guitar alongside Dje Kimo's intruiging keyboards. This record is superb and so different from anything else that it has remained a favourite of mine since the day I bought it. Pure Magic. ( F.T.Index. Yafama, Nafigui, Malienlou, Saya, Nanan Houphoet. ) [5T/30M]		CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO LX93033 Track. Malienlou
MODIBO KONE	WASS MANDING L'AN 2000 VOL II	AM91007	TC	6.50	COL
Actually this is his third album. His crisply executed gruff traditional call and response vocals with the girls of the chorus are accompanied throughout by some beautiful and unexpected modern style guitar playing that overlays but doesn't obscure the simple Wassoulou and Manding musical base. Out of the four tracks 'Bana' is my favorite but 'Sanga' isn't far behind. LOVELY.
MODIBO KONE	WASS MANDING L'AN 2000 VOL. I	E018491-4	TC	6.50	COL
Certainly not his first album as I've already got 'Hommage a El Hadj Souleymane Doumbia' and also 'DJIGUIYA' which I thought was by 'ASKIA MODIBO' but it turns out that he uses the former name when he's playing traditional Manding music and the later when he plays 'Wass Reggae'. So what's this album like? Well it continues in the same vein as 'Hommage' - modern interpretation of Mandingue rhythms and singing with some super guitar to enhance his striking vocals and those of the girl backing singers. According to the the 'info' that I've got, he's also got some other albums out, I haven't got them yet, but I definitely will as this guy is magic. Andy Kershaw likes him.
MODIBO KONE	WASS MANDING L'AN 2000 VOL. IIA (OK 010)	E028591-4	TC	6.50	COL
MOGONTAFE SACKO	WALE NYUMAN	OUO 011	TC	6.50	COL
Born in 1937 into a family of Griots at Segou, Mali, she was through no fault of her own given the name Mogontafe which translates as 'nobody loves you because you are so ugly' which is totally untrue of this magnificent singer. She has been recording since the 50's and this album is a prime example of her work. Superbly played balafon, flute and kora provide the exquisite traditional backing to her songs. The music alone makes this album a classic let alone her lovely singing.
MOHAMED JONY	BIMBALIA	MAIKANO1071	TC	6.50	COL
Modern Malian music from composer and vocalist Mamadou Sissoko better known as Mohamed Jony with an outstanding performance by Kader Gueye, who plays lead guitar, this guy is pure magic! The music is based on Southern Manding folklore and the other instruments are a mix of traditional and modern including kamale n'goni and karignan both played by Soulemane Sidibe and keyboards and druming by Eavriste Yace and Ernest Dompreh, who also provides the bass guitar. However good and I promise you they are, the other artists are all overshadowed by Kader's exquisite guitar playing. Wonderful album. ( 6 tracks )
MOHAMED TRAORE alias JOHN	DJOUDJON	155	TC	6.50	COL
The gorgeously seductive singing of chorus girls Ramata, Tata & Kadia Diakite is only upstaged by the deep throb of Mohamed's voice and the wonderful sound of Bayini Koita's guitar. That's the first track the rest is rubish
MOLOBALI KEITA	VOLUME 3	IK010	TC	6.50	COL
Produced at Studio Oubien in Bamako by Idrissa Konate this album exemplifies the the true roots of Malian music. Molobali and un-named friend sing their hearts out to the accompaniment of N'goni, Kora, traditional percussion instruments and some really wonderful Balafon playing. The Jali tradition is alive and well, listen for yourself, the whole album is alive with sound from start to finish. Truly beautiful.
MOLOBALI KEITA	VOLUME I	IK002	TC	6.50	COL
MOLOBALI KEITA	VOLUME II	IK003	TC	6.50	COL
MOLOBALI TRAORE	BAMANANA KONO VOL. 1	AEMD001	TC	£ 6.50
Another wonderful album of traditional music from Wassoulou singing star Molobali and her band. Nanou Coul, Maimouna Sidibe and Lamini Konta provide the sharp chorus line while the soft guitars of Ibrim Cisse and Kalifa Kone float along in company with Zoumana Fane's n'goni. The simple percussion comes from the tam tam of Madou Diarra while Remi Mariko's flute adds to the atmosphere. A first rate album from an explosive singer of classic Wassoulou. (F.T.Index: Ani Souro Baro, Tie La Sigui Dioro Bena, Sebi Kebali. Kobi Na Wati. ) [6T/38M]
MOLOBALI TRAORE	BAMANANA KONO VOL. 2	AEMD002	TC	6.50	COL
MOLOBALI TRAORE	DIALABA	DIALABA	TC	6.50	COL
MOLOBALI TRAORE	MOLOBALI 92	IK010-4	TC	6.50	COL
Beautiful album of traditional music and singing from Molobali and her band. Simple vocals, simple percussion and simply loads of strings and things. N'goni's and one string lutes abound and mix perfectly with the bits of electric guitar. No credits on the inlay but boy oh boy is that guitarist good! (F.T.Index: Dianjo, Niania, Tindro)
MOLOBALY TRAORE	NAFIGUI	NAFIGUI	TC	10.00	COL
A very nice album from singer Molobaly which also features Djeneba Seck and Sadio Sidibe in the chorus.		1. DEMBE 2. NAFIGUINI 3. BONYA 4. DJOUGOUYA 5. SONFO 6. FLANOU 7. KAMALAMBA 8. MANIAN 9. FANTAYA 10. MAKANKONO
MORIBA KOITA	SOROTOUMOU	09279-2	CD	13.85	COL
MUSIQUE TRADITIONNELLE	MUSEE NATIONAL VOLUME I	MC1	TC	6.50	COL
NABINTOU DIAKITE	MA OULENI	MAOULENI	CD		COL
Released in 2005 this is a great album which shows how she has polished up her act since releasing Nadiaramiye. A new line-up but with help still from Oumou Sangare.		1. MA OULENI 2. OUMOU 3. CHERIF 4. DIA YE BANA 5. N' NALENA 6. AN DIA 7. SIGUI 8. DOGONI 9. MALI DENW 10. DONSO
NABINTOU DIAKITE	NADIARAMIYE	NABINTOU	TC	£ 10.00
Wonderful 1998 album from rising star Nabintou Diakite. Djeneba Seck, Alima Toure and Oumou Sangare provide the chorus while Kassim Sidibe knocks out some very nice tunes on the n'goni helped by Adama Drame and Bah's guitars and Alto Fofona's flute and last but not least the thudding beat of Basidy Keita's Djemb. [30M]		1. NADIARAMIYE 2. DIARRALBY LEE 3. BE DIAGNEMOKO 4. DJENINA WELE 5. SO TOUBANI 6. TAMA DIAYE SEKIKOYEE
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	DIBY	93622	CD	£ 13.85
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	DIDADI	64015	CD	10.95	COL
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	DIDADI	SHAN64015-4	TC	£ 6.50
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	KOUROUNI	A5005	TC		COL
Kourouni (or as Sterns Guide II calls it 'Djankonia') was Nahawa's first album released way back in 1980 and it is still being produced in Mali today, which speaks volumes for its popularity. Nahawa's stunning vocals first came to prominence with her hit album 'Didadi' where she was backed by a studio full of session musicians. Here however the sum total of her backing is one superbly played acoustic guitar! Listening to this album has for me been a tremendous experience and in fact I think it's true to say that this album is in fact 'A TRUE CLASSIC'. (F.T.Index: Kourouni, Nianimanjougou, Tjefouroule, Sokonon Woulouni ) [6T/32M]		1. KOUROUNI 2. TOU DIBILE 3. TJEFOUROULE 4. DJANKONIA 5. NIANIMANJOUGOU 6. SOKONON WOULOUNI
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	LA GRANDE CANTATRICE MALIENNE VOL. 3	AS011P82	LP	60.00	COL
Her hardest one to find, and one of her best, as this one also includes bass, piano by either Cheick Tidiane Seck or Pierre Houon on the 10 minutes long and outstanding Korodia.		1. KORODIA 2. KUNGO SOGONI 3. DANAYA 4. DAN TE DINYE LA
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	MANGONI	STCD1041	CD	8.25	COL
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	MANGONI	SYL83128	TC	£ 6.50
This Paris recorded album is another gorgeous offering in the same style as her classic 'Didadi'. Features Djely Moussa Kouyate and Mamadou Doumbia on guitars, Mare Sonogo belting out the magic percussion, Cheickh Tidane Seck on keyboards and of course the stupendous voice of Nahawa herself. Just listen to it sweeping all before it on 'Barika Da'. This album is definitely set to become another classic.
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	NYAMA TOUTOU	STERNS1033	LP	£ 10.00
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	NYAMA TOUTOU	SYL83102-4	TC	6.50	COL
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	SAKORO MERY	AS90004	TC	£ 10.00
Her second album and every bit as good as the first.		1. SAKORO MERY 2. DJIGUI YIRI 3. MAI NI WOULA 4. DEMISSEW KOULOU
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	YAALA	09296-2	CD	£ 12.50
NAHAWA DOUMBIA	YANKAW	09278-2	CD	£ 12.50
NAINY DIABATE	FARAFINA MOUSSO	CK7030	TC	7.00	COL
Guitarists Cheik Oumar and Modibo, both Diabate's, definitely steal the limelight with their playing. Nainy's lovely crisp vocals stand absolutely no chance against their superbly interpreted rendition of kora played on guitar. Sad to say, but her singing is totally overshadowed by the guitarists. Even N'goni player Ba Sekou Kouyate must be Wondering why they needed him. The track 'Dincole' is a perfect example of 'anything you can do I can do better with a Guitar'. A super album of modern versus traditional Malian music, if you can stop listening to the guitars, if you can't, it's outstanding.
NAINY DIABATE	MAGNOUMAGO	CK7336	TC	10.00	COL
This is the second of Nainy's albums that I've got hold of and 'wow' does it go or what? Her voice absolutely belts out over the music and the chorus girls in one of the most impressive displays of vocal power that I've heard in years. A far cry from her first album Farafina Mousso where she got lost behind the band a bit to say the least. The traditional style music is very nicely played with soft and fragrant guitar up front backed by kora, balafon, drums and keyboards. (F.T.Index: Fossakadi, Treinanko, Massassi, Nakamadi, Mousso Dje, Nafa, Kono, Magnoumako.) [8T/45M]
NAINY DIABATE	NAFA	STCD1083	CD	£ 12.50
Contains all but one track from her tape albums Farafina Mousso and Magnoumago. (13T/71M)
NANOU COUL	TIEBA	NANOU	TC	£ 6.50
Superb set of songs from razor sharp songstress Nanou and the band. All the tracks were composed by Nana Coulibaly, to give Nanou her real name, or by guitarist Mamadou Sissoko, probably better known to newsletter readers as 'Mohamed Jony', who this time round plays keyboards! Malian singing star Djeneba Seck along with Mai Sidibe provide the chorus while Mahama Sissoko plays guitars and n'goni to Bakari Diabate's percussion. Definitely one of the Wonders of Wassoulou! (F.T.Index: Tie Ba, Mousso Fissiriwale, Aye Diourou La Yoba ) [6T/34M]
NATIONAL BADEMA	TIRA MAKAN	SYL8355LP	LP	8.00	COL
NATIONAL BADEMA AND KASSE MADY	NAMA	SYL8390	TC	6.50	COL
Issued in 1983 this album was taken from earlier vinyl recordings and is as fresh today as it was then. The lovely early Cuban influence is very apparent. Gorgeous in every department and definitely not to be missed.
NEBA SOLO	KENEDOUGOU FOLY (Balafon)	09281-2	CD	£ 13.85
[7T/56M]
N'NAN DIAKITE	YANTOMADIA	ACSB008	TC	10.00	COL
I bet you haven't heard of her until now, I know I hadn't but she is now definitely one of my favourite Malian singers. N'nan's stunning voice is classic Wassoulou to say the least and that also applies to the backing provided by Adjaratou Cisse & Mah Doumbia. If the voices aren't outstanding enough then the pulsating beat of Bramawoule Sidibe's tam tam and the deep rhythmic throbbing of Sayo Keita's dum dum should just about take your breath away if it doesn't blow your head off first! Fast, furious and great fun! (F.T.Index: Kola Bamko, Bama, Yantomadia, Djirimoko ) [6T/33M] And lastly a comment by Akenataa who has just bought a copy. Simply great! Probably the only recording of pure sokonikun rhythms out but the producer/remixer spoils it a bit with a looped electronic beat accompanying the drums. Well Akenataa, I don't know about that as I still think it's a great album.
N'NAN DIAKITE ( Na Diakite )	SAN FINNE	158	TC	6.50	COL
ORCHESTRE RAIL BAND DE BAMAKO	ORCHESTRE RAIL BAND DE BAMAKO	BM30L2606	LP	10.00	COL
From the opening seconds its easy to see why the band have become so popular and famous. Wonderful percussion driven music with great vocals and some super brass sounds combine to make this a must have album. ( F.T.Index: Rail Band, Koro Koni, Gansan Na, Mali Cebalenw, Sunjata. ) [5T/49M]
ORCHESTRE REGIONAL DE KAYES	BEST OF THE 1st BIENNALE 1970	BM30L2604	LP	60.00	COL
ORCHESTRE REGIONAL DE SEGOU	BEST OF THE 1st BIENNALE 1970	BM30L2601	LP	10.00	COL
Magic as the 13 piece orchestra of Segou bounces in with the modern sound of Korodogo. Next come the more traditionally styled Da Monzon and Lefenin with the horns taking turns with the singers. The stylish but sad sounding Batumanbe is soon left behind by the fast paced and happy sound of Sabu Man Dogo. Finally finishing off with the beautifully played Mali gundo. If you like horns over simple malian percussion and even simple songs then this is it. ( F.T.Index: Korodogo, Da Monzon, Lefenin, Batumanbe, Sabu Man Dogo, Mali Gundo. ) [6T/41M]
ORCHESTRE REGIONAL DE SIKASSO	BEST OF THE 1st BIENNALE 1970	BM30L2603	LP	10.00	COL
Loved it even if the first track is a recitation. Having said that, its wonderful as the music tinkles along in the background while the arresting voice of the speaker keeps you glued to his story. The canned cheering was probably great stuff back in 1970 but it does make you jump when it spontaniously erupts out of nowhere. Then its hot foot to the dance floor with the superb Mali Senekelaw and once you've settled into the swinging rhythm the vocals will take over big time. Nafarima is next and very nice but Batuta Mori with its trinkling guitar play and smooth vocals is a fitting finale especially when it shifts up a gear. ( F.T.Index: Recital, Mali Senekelaw, Nafarima, Batuta Mori. ) [4T/50M]
OUMAR KOITA	BAMBE KA SO	SAM3	TC	£ 6.50
Oumar is one of the rising stars of Mali, here with his new album. While reggae is the style of music he is best known for, his inovative mixing of it with Manding music has produced a hybrid of exceptional beauty
OUMOU SANGARE	BI FURU ( KO SIRA )	BI FURU	TC	6.00	COL
OUMOU SANGARE	LABAN	4294	TC	10.00	COL
New release from Oumou which while not quite traditional is very nicely roots orientated with some lovely traditional flute playing, calabash percussion and of course that beautiful voice. However those of you looking for a more modern side will love the up tempo beat and the magic guitar playing that goes hand in hand with the catchy vocals of Oumou and her girls. (F.T.Index: Ya La, Sina, Magnumako, Been, My Yetima, Malado, Laban, Tcheou, Wa Yeina, Ne Bife.) [10T/47M]
OUMOU SANGARE	MOUSSOLOU	SYL83103	TC	6.00	COL
OUMOU SANGARE	MUSSOWLA DIALA	5097	TC	6.50	COL
OUMOU SANGARE	WOROTAN	WCD045	CD	0.00	COL
A Wassoulou wonder that topped the World music Charts for months when it was released. In Europe it grabbed first place on the radio world music 'Most played list' for the whole of 1996. This is Mali's most celebrated female singer's third album and mixes traditional with exquisite ballads. Oumou and her band are joined by sax player Pee Wee Ellis who's horn line-up with Winston Rollins and Greame Hamilton was arranged by James Brown and Van Morrison. Also released as 8 track tape 'Den' without tracks 'Sabu' and the traditional 'Kun Fe Ko'. (F.T.Index: N'guatu, Djorolen, N'diya Ni, Den, Sabu, Kun Fe Ko, Baba, Worotan, Tiebaw, Fantan Ni Mone. [10T/59M]		1. KUN FE KO 2. N'GUATU 3. BABA 4. WOROTAN 5. DENW 6. N'DIYA NI 7. TIEBAW 8. SABU 9. FANTAN NI MONE 10. DJOROLEN
OUMOU SINAYOGO	TIELASSIKI DIORO	EMK7003	TC	£ 6.50
A beautiful album that mixes traditional sounds and styles with those of modern 'Wassoulou' to great effect. Oumou's soft yet razor-sharp vocals are lovely to listen to but I found that it was the jazzy backing guitar of Mamadou Bah Traore that kept grabbing my attention, wonderful stuff. Talking of Traore's this is definitely a family get together with Ousmane on chorus, Boubacar on n'goni, Abdramane on balafon, Ibrahima on Djembe and Madou Bah doing the arranging! It doesn't say who's playing the flute but Sibiri Sanou & Kadia Diakite provide the backing vocals on this gorgeous album. (F.T.Index: Naba Ye Taabaye, Banan, Dianana, Tielassiki Dioro, Nawo Nawo.) [6T/28M]
OUSMANE BAKHAGA	DEMOCRATIE	KIP005	TC	6.50	COL
PAPUS DIARRA	PEKELE	IC0996	TC	£ 10.00
I wasn't over impressed by the first three tracks but on the others the gruff voiced Papus and his shrill chorus girls are wonderfully offset by Pape Noir and Diamou Traore's guitar play while the dbembe's pound out the beat. A bit rough round the edges but that is more than made up for by the music. The title track gets a second unlisted play in a slightly different recording at the end. Although made in 1996 track 6 definitely had echoes of Zani Diabate. [7T/31M ]		1. MAMA 2. DOMBA LAFILY 3. AMADOU SIMAGA 4. PEKELE 5. KOROLEN 6. N'GNAGARAN FOLY 7. PEKELE
RAIL BAND	BELLE EPOQUE VOLUME 1: SOUNDIATA	STCD3033-34	CDx2	£ 13.20
A slice of history - 2 CDs that take you back to a time when, as the liner notes put it: 'a penniless Salif Keita was still plucking his old Chinese guitar under a tree, forlorn and desperate, lamenting the human condition .' includes the earliest recordings of Salif Keita and Mory Kante - singers that went on revolutionize African music in the West vol. 1 of three double CDs that tell the story - from 1970 to 1983 - of a band that can truly proclaim its greatness compiled by Ibrahim Sylla; legendary producer, entrepreneur and man who knows this music like no other - he was there! full-colour, 20-page booklet with notes detailing the history of the band plus full-page reproductions of the original album covers. Tracks: CD1: 1. Soundiata, L'Exil (feat. Mory Kante, 1975) 2. Maliyo (feat. Lanfia Diabate, 1982) 3. Sunjata (feat: Salif Keita, 1970) 4. Armee Mali (var. vox 1973) CD2: 1. Duga (feat. Magan Ganessy 1975) 2. Mali Cebalenw (feat. Salif Keita, 1968) 3. Armee Malienne (feat. Mory Kante, 1974) 4. Fankante Dankele (feat. Magan Ganessy, 1974) 5. Armee Mali (feat. Tatine Dembele 1973) 6. Soundjata (feat. Salif Keita, 1972) 7. Mali Tebaga Mogoma (feat. Salif Keita, 1972)
RAIL BAND	MELODIAS DU MALI	KLP1043	LP	12.00	COL
The Rail band on top form with five superb tracks which includes on the final track the voice of Fanta Damba. Tracks : Soundiata, Mali Tebaga Mogoma, Maki, Armee Malienne Chant Fanta Damba & le Rail Band.
RAIL BAND	MELODIAS RAIL BAND DU MALI	KLP1040	LP	15.00	COL
RAIL BAND	MORY KANTE AND SALIF KEITA	CDS7051	CD	13.20	COL
RAIL BAND	SALIF KEITA AND MORY KANTE	38750-2	CD	12.35	COL
RAIL BAND WITH MORY KANTE	WALE NUMA LOMBALIYA	SYL8378LP	LP	10.00	COL
A classic album first issued in 1977 and re-issued in 1989 with the Rail Band for the most part playing their distinctive Cuban style music to Mory Kante's lead vocals. However it's the stunning Afrobeat sound of 'Sinsimba' that is really the scene stealer. Smashing album, classic throughout.
RAMATA DIAKITE	NA	09291-2	CD	13.85	COL
Superb second album from the late Ramata who packed power and fireworks like Nahawa Doumbia. She died too young and will be sadly missed. [10T/49M]
ROKIA TRAORE	BOWMBOI	LBLC2594	CD	£ 14.80
ROKIA TRAORE	MOUNEISSA	LBLC2524	CD	£ 14.65
ROKIA TRAORE	WANITA	LBLC2574	CD	£ 14.65
FROOTS album of the year 2000 winner of the critics poll.
RONCHI TANKO	VOLUME I	URT	TC	6.50	COL
Usmane Ronchi Tanko and his group play music the like of which I've never heard before and I'll bet that when you hear it you'll be as stumped and as stunned as I was. Traditional percussion and rhythms form the base to the stunningly beautiful music that get faster as the songs go on. Backed up by some gorgeous flute playing and tinkling percussion plus the super singing of Ronchi and his band, ten seconds into the first track and I was hopelessly hooked on this marvellous music. STUNNING.
S.S. ROUGEOT	LA DI LI KAN ( VOL. 2 )	LA DI	TC	£ 5.50
Really lovely singing from Rougeot and his chorus girls with some very nice and unobtrusive keyboards and guitaring providing the backing instead of traditional instruments. Usually the keyboard sounds on any Wassoulou album are its death-knell but here they have for once got it just right. It might be a little less on time than most tapes so I've also shortened the price to match. As with nearly every Maikano release it is it well worth getting a copy. Its a little beaut. (F.T.Index: Gawa Tie, La Di Li Kan, Mousso Nani Fourou, Bi De Ou. ) [4T/22M]
S.S. ROUGEOT	LES MARTYRS ( VOL. 1 )	1075	TC	5.50	COL
SABOU DORINTHIE	WAYAINA	WAYAINA	TC	£ 6.50
Soft swaying rhythms with flashes of glittering guitar and punctuated by rolling drums and the occasional melodic sound of trumpet and sax. It sounds interesting on paper but it sounds wonderful on tape! Sabou has one of those lovely warm and rich voices that simply floats along with the music in a timeless and effortless way. Helping with the backing is Malian Superstar Djeneba Seck and her friend Assa Drame, they're just great on 'Wayaina'. Mama Cissoko's guitar solos and Maha's keyboards coupled with the sax and trumpet of Fode and Yatt brought back memories of the Mali jazz sound of Super Biton and in fact Sabou thanks them for their help in the inlay notes. A lovely album. (F.T.Index: Wayaina, Djiri Diarra, Musso Massiri, Gna Wotche, Ladilikan, Dimi. ) [6T/28M]
SABRE SOUMANO	FIDELITE	AVZKMK001	TC	7.00	COL
Wonderful vocals & great music, nothing else needed.
SABRE SOUMANO	ITOULIBALAN	CK7CD017	CD	£ 13.95
SABRE SOUMANO	MOUSSOULOU	BIP108CD	CD	£ 11.99
Smashing singing from Sabre and backing trio of Djanka, Sona and Sayon Diabate, Guitars from Ibrahim Soumano, Kaba Kante and Babajan Kaba. Alpha Camara is on drums and Sadio Sissoko plays some great ngoni. [8T/M]
SABRE SOUMANO	MOUSSOULOU	BIP108	TC	£ 7.00
SABRE SOUMANO	SIX KILOS	CK7CD018	CD	£ 13.95
SACHETS KENEYADJI	WOLO BA MOUSSOLOU	WOLO	TC	6.50	COL
Unusual album in that of the two girls who front the group, one is white. The title track with its softly played flute sounds a bit mournful but it soon picks up when the drummer goes loony on the next track! After that its a case of 'what the hell's coming next' and there are plenty of surprises to come. The music is based on the traditional sounds of Mali with drums, n'goni, flute and balafon as the main instruments but it doesn't fall into any definite slot except that it is all flippin gorgeous. What I particularly liked was the way the drummers climaxed somewhat in the style of Super Biton - 'The faster, the better' - Lovely. A REAL TREASURE. (F.T.Index: Sindji Be De Sania, Sokonodji Magni, Bolo Ty Kagni, Keneya Dji (2).) [8T/33M]
SADIO DIABATE	DJOUBA KAMALE	SYL8365	TC	7.00	COL
SAFI DIAWARA	TJEOU MAGNI	EMK7002	TC	£ 6.50
Lovely album of modern Wassoulou music from top singer Safi and her group. The pace is quite fast and the drummer and guitarist have a great time, especially on Djiguiba where Safi takes a break and lets them get on with it. I've not seen any other albums by her although I have noticed her in the chorus of a few, this is probably her first solo album but it won't be her last, that's for sure. (F.T.Index: Tjeou magni. Djougouyamagni, Djama Djama, Djiguiba. ) [6T/33M]
SALI SIDIBE	BAMAN	SYL83161	TC	6.50	COL
Tracks: Baman, Ne Ma Nin Me, Diaby, Tie Na Ka Baramousso, Gnouman Ke La, Blon.
SALI SIDIBE	FROM TIMBUKTU TO GAO	SHAN65011	TC	6.50	COL
This album is the US release of Malian cassette N'Daya International. Tracks: Yacouba Sylla, N'daya International, Muso Nyebaio, Sidikile, Fote Ma Ban, Maliden Nyuman.
SALI SIDIBE	NAKA GNAMI	BBK001	TC	6.50	COL
The Black Pearl of the Wassoulou strikes again with a sumptuous feast of Balafon, Violin, Jembe, Guitar, N'goni and Tambour to back her amazing vocals. The chorus line of Niame and Sanata Doumbia enhance the beauty of her singing to reach new heights of pure pleasure. Instrumentally: SUPERB. Vocally: INCREDIBLE. Tracks: Naka Gnami, Djema, Dia Bana, Dunia Manyi, Faso Baara, Suruku Ninama.
SALI SIDIBE	TOUNKAN MAGNI	SYL8362	TC	£ 10.00
A bit of a strange opening with the title track having a couple of instances where what sounds like electronic feedback becomes part of the throbbing musical backing. The rest of the album is prettymuch standard Wassoulou sound though. The Djen Magni here is the original Malien version not the Sterns released English version. Tracks: Tounkan Magni, Ntanan, Diaby, Santana, Yan Kadi, Djen Magni.
SALI SIDIBE	WALE GNOUMA DON	KBK910	TC	£ 10.00
Super singer Salimata is back with another wonderfull album. Features N'goni, Violon, N'bolon, Djembe,Balafon and some lovely Flute plus great backing chorus from Aminata Diabate and Fatim Sissoko. Unlike her previous albums where her voice took precedence this album is outstanding as the music comes to the fore with some lovely little solo's from the musicians involved. Definitely her best album and musically outstanding. Tracks: Wale Gnouma Don, Kolola, Musee, Armee, Douga Diabira, Wassolon Foli.
SALI SIDIBE FARABA	NOUMOUSSO. VOLUME 1	SHAKARA	TC	£ 10.00
Tracks: Noumousso, Kodouman Korobali Te, Douka Ni Yala, Sole Kon Non, Djinade Bole, Sigui Nade. (29M)
SALIF KEITA	AMEN	559910	TC	£ 6.50
SALIF KEITA	FOLON....THE PAST	5241492	CD	£ 6.60
Superb set of tracks plus the evergreen 'Mandjou'
SALIF KEITA	FOLON....THE PAST	CIDM1108	CD	11.55	COL
Superb set of tracks plus the evergreen 'Mandjou'
SALIF KEITA	KO-YAN	9836	TC	£ 5.00
SALIF KEITA	KO-YAN (1982)	PALMCD2119-2	CD	9.15	COL
SALIF KEITA	MAMA	MAMA	TC	£ 6.50
The long awaited new Salif Keita album has been well worth waiting for. Musically it is every inch a perfect westernised production which relies on smoothly played guitars, soft but solid drumming and keyboard. However the vocals are the thing that really make this a great album. Salif himself is on top form and turns in a very well crafted performance, which while not as piercing as on his big hit 'Soro', retains that unmistakable modern Malian sound that only Salif seems capable of achieving. The chorus singers are great as well and I have no doubts about recommending this album. ( F.T.Index: Bonda, Bolon, Mama, Papa, Ananamin, Abede, Sada, Tomorrow - Sadio. ) [8T/45M]
SALIF KEITA	MOFFOU	016906-2	CD	£ 14.40
New release from Salif that is absolutely stunning. (10T/60M)		Track:Madan
SALIF KEITA	SIRGA	ISLAND	TC	10.00	COL
Wonderful mixture from Super Star Salif. On three of the tracks his haunting vocals and that of the girls in the chorus reminded me of 'Soro' but without the hi-tec sounds, just drums and kora. However the third, fifth and sixth tracks probably owe their source more to 'Amen' being simple and atmospheric both vocally and musically. It's probably going to be an album for local consumption only so grab yourself a copy before it disappears. (F.T.Index: NiSanoubabife, Djembe, Cherie,) [6T/36M]
SALIF KEITA	SORO	STCD1020	CD	12.50	COL
SALIF KEITA	SORO	STERNS1020	LP	£ 6.50
SALIF KEITA	THE LOST ALBUM	790003026	CD	£ 13.85
SALIF KEITA	THE MANSA OF MALI - A RETROSPECTIVE	5220752	CD	£ 6.99
SALIF KEITA	THE MANSA OF MALI - A RETROSPECTIVE	539937	TC	£ 3.99
SALIF KEITA AND AMBASSADEURS	69-80 (RE-ISSUE COMPILATION)	CDS9112	CD	13.20	COL
SALIF KEITA AND AMBASSADEURS	BITHIELOULE	EB0024	TC	£ 10.00
If you bought the Rounder 5053 album you will have the track 'Sali' which is one of the three tracks on this 25 minute tape. The other two, 'Bithieloule' and 'Kankelen-Tigui' were also recorded in the early 70's and have only just surfaced from obscurity. All three are supreme examples of the early laid back Cuban style of that period. Salif's vocals are outstandingly beautiful while the guitars are sweetness itself. In fact this album is absolutely gorgeous from start to finish. ESSENTIAL.
SALIF KEITA AND AMBASSADEURS	SEYDOU BATHILY	CDS7004	CD	13.20	COL
SALIF KEITA, KANTE MANFILA, AMBASSADEURS	TOUNKAN	CEL6717	LP	15.00	COL
SARAN ET TATA	WARY BE MOGO SAMIA	MAI1073	TC	£ 6.50
It's an absolutely gorgeous album but it wasn't until I read the inlay that I realized why. Saran and Tata are fronting Amadou Bah Traore and L'Orchestre Farafina Lolo, which should ring a few bells with those who bought the stunning Djeneba Diakite albums a few years ago. The traditional ensemble is led by wonderful guitarist Amadou and includes balafon, kamale n'goni and flute among the other players. The girls lovely singing is in perfect harmony and for a first album it's a smasher even if the studio did cut off one of the tracks rather than fading it out! Loved the flute playing. (F.T.Index: Djembe Bara, Iti Dia, Tandi M'bama, Ibi Dja.) [6T/28M]
SEKOU BATOUROU KOUYATE	MAMAYA	MAMAYA	TC	6.50	COL
Released way back in 1976 this album remains to this day an outstanding example of traditional Kora playing. No vocals, no accompaniment, just pure Kora plucked by the hands of Mali's greatest exponent of the instrument. The sweet notes of the melody cascade over deeper rhythmic notes in an ever changing pattern both serene and intriguing in its simplicity and beauty. PURE CLASSIC.
SEKOU KOUYATE	DIAGNEBA	KBK906	TC	£ 6.50
Sekou is a specialist in Manding music and comes from Mali although now resident in the Ivory Coast. His last album was very well received all across West Africa and this one will undoubtedly follow firmly in it's footsteps. A whole clutch of Kouyate's make this album look like a family outing, Sekou on lead vocals and guitar, Doussou on chorus, Lassana on balafon, Mamaye on ngoni and last but not least Djely Moussa on guitar. Gorgeous music and singing which was recorded in Paris at Studio Harryson.
SEKOU KOUYATE	FASSAN DIARABY	CDS9153	CD	12.50	COL
SEKOU KOUYATE	KOULIORO	2003918	CD	11.99	COL
Sekou's latest album follows in the same rootsy Manding music style as his previous album 'Diagneba'. Sekou is again on lead vocals plus solo guitar and n'goni, Mama Assitan Keita & Mama Tounkara provide the sweet chorus, Djely Moussa Youyate and Bakaroba Keita are on guitar accompaniment and Jean Philip Rykel once again helps with keyboard, flute and traditional violin. Gorgeous music and singing throughout. Was originally released on cassette CK7272 as ROULIORO then licenced to Dakar Sound who have added two extra track versions with guitar from Sekou Bembeya Diabate and Jazz guitarist Jan Kuiper. [10T/55M]
SEKOU KOUYATE	ROULIKORO	CK7272	TC	7.00	COL
In 1994 I had Sekou's album 'Diagneba' in stock which you may remember featured most of the Kouyate family and was a big hit across West Africa. This is his latest album and follows in that same rootsy Manding music style. Sekou is once again on lead vocals plus solo guitar and n'goni, Mama Assitan Keita & Mama Tounkara provide the sweet chorus, Djely Moussa Youyate and Bakaroba Keita are on guitar accompaniment and Jean Philip Rykel once again helps with keyboard, flute and traditional violin. Gorgeous music and singing throughout. [8T/44M]
SIBIRI SAMAKE	VOLUME I	AA010	TC	6.50	COL
This tape should carry a health warning about track one. The music is very quiet and you tend to turn it up even if Sibiri's vocals are a bit loud - DON'T. Sibiri and 'The Hunters of Commune Four' play totally ethnic music on all the instruments shown on the cover, including the flipping shotgun! Simple percussion and a home made forerunner of the kora provide the music to this live recording of call and response Manding hunting songs from the open savanahs of Mali. They only play music for six months of the year as they all go hunting in the summer. If you're interested in ethnic music this and Volume 2 are a must. If you just want to scare the hell out of somebody, send 'em a copy.
SIBIRI SAMAKE	VOLUME II	AA017	TC	6.50	COL
Much the same as Volume 1 but without the trigger happy shotgun player. Only one track is the same as Vol. 1.
SOBA KANTE AND KABINE DIAWARA	LES VIRTUOSES DU MANDING VOL. I	LES VIRTUOSES	TC	6.50	COL
SOLOMANI SIDIBE	KURUNI	DMC09631-003	TC	6.50	COL
Talented singer and n'goni player Solomani is accompanied by his band 'Les Wele Wele Kan Du Wassolo', what a lovely name for a band! The chorus girls, Hama Cissoko & Djeneba Diallo are really great however Baina Koita on lead guitar steals the show whenever he gets the chance. While traditional singing, strings and percussion make the running, in the background is some modern and very inovative electric guitar, played somewhat Malian Blues style which is not only intriguing but also very beautiful to listen to. (F.T.Index: Buru Kumana, Mali Mousso, Juruni.)
SORIBA KOUYATE	KANAKASSI	ACT9272-2	CD	£ 15.80
Kora player Soriba plays a stunningly beautiful set of tracks both modern and traditional with help from a top notch band of French musicians.Recorded in France in 98 it's gorgeous all the way. [13T/70M]
SORRY BAMBA	SIGUI	160195	TC	7.00	COL
SOULEY KANTE	BANDJOUGOU	159	TC	6.50	COL
Rolls along with a solid beat and a very traditional sound. Plenty of guitar and n'goni but its the chorus girls who really make it for me.
SOULEYMANE SIDIBE	LADILIKAN	LADILIKAN	TC	6.50	COL
SOULEYMANE SIDIBE	LE PRINCE DU WASSOULOU	KLO129	TC	£ 2.00
A 14 track compilation containing new versions of all the tracks from his albums Kuruni & Ladilikan which have been shortened and are much more electric in style. The new recordings are rather tinny and sound a bit out of tune, hence the price.
SUPER BITON	BALANDZAN	TANLP7008	LP	25.00	COL
A superb album from one of Mali's top rated groups which was released back in 1983. Beautiful vocal harmonies which entwine effortlessly with the brass, keyboards, strings and percussion of the laid back music.		1. SODANSO 2. S.T.I. 3. WARACORO 4. KARA DEMBA 5. FLANI - N'GONI
SUPER BITON	BELLE EPOQUE	CDS7072	CD	13.20	COL
Recorded in the early 70's and re-issued in 88, the band was one of the first to break into the European market with their fast jazzy versions of traditional Bambara tunes. Started originally in 1952 the band travelled widely and won numerous accolades before drifting into relative obscurity in and around their home town of Segou. All six tracks from the Mali Stars album (SYL8356) plus one from the other Mali Stars album (38766-4)
SUPER BITON	NYANGARAN FOLI	SYL8389	TC	6.50	COL
Another early 70's release which has stood the test of time and also been re-issued. Both these albums are superb examples and if you haven't got them in your Malian collection then it is missing a couple of the Classic sounds of this era.
SUPER BITON DE SEGOU	AFRO JAZZ DU MALI	BOL40	LP	0.00	COL
Absolute magic from start to finish with gutsy vocals and strident trumpets and sax powering over the various percussion instruments. I thought the first four tracks were great but the group definitely save the best for the last two tracks. I just love that drumming on Bara Musso.		1. DONGARI 2. BUA - BARO 3. TCHA - TCHO 4. RECOMA 5. BARA MUSSO 6. NIENEMA MINE
SUPER RAIL BAND	DU BUFFET HOTEL (INDIGO)	150392-4	TC	6.00	COL
This is the album that everybody wanted last year when the CD came out on the Indigo Label. I did manage get a couple but then supplies dried up! However I now have it on tape and what a cracker of an album it is. Powerful vocal harmonies from Damoury Kouyate, Modibo Dibate and Abdoulaye Traore driven by the guitars of Djelimadi Tounkara, Karamoko Kouyate and Fotigui Keita. Add to that a good horn line up with some fast and solid drumming and you've got a super dance band album.
SUPER RAIL BAND	MANSA	LBLC2520	CD	£ 14.65
SUPER RAIL BAND	NEW DIMENSIONS IN RAIL CULTURE	CDORB001	CD	£ 13.35
SUPER RAIL BAND DE BAMAKO	KONGO SIGUI	LBLC2581	CD	£ 14.80
After wowing audiences during the 1970s the Super Rail Band, led by the amazing guitarist Djelimady Tounkara, a BBC 2002 World Music Award winner, is back rejuvenated and revitalized.The pioneers of Manding electric pop in West Africa since 1970, the Super Rail Band are powering their way into the 21st century as living history and one of Afropop's great survival stories.
TAI SAKHO	HOMMAGE A SEKHOU SEMEGA	DK31	TC	7.50	COL
Taye Sacko to give her the spelling used on her other tapes is a superb traditional praise singer. The beautiful music that she sings to comes from the wonderful guitars of Fadiala Diawara - solo, Seky Kougate - bass and Djeli Moussa Kouyate - rhythm and djembe drums. Djeli Makhan Tounkara and Sidy Kouyate play the gorgeous kora like n'goni while the percussionists Brama Dikho Kouyate and Walde Baba Sissokho play doundoumba and tama drums respectively. (F.T.Index: Fatou Kante, Sekhou Semega, Dielia, Siya.) [7T/47M] Please note that there is some very faint clicking in the background, unfortunately it is on every cassette.
TATA BAMBO KOUYATE	DJELY MOUSSO	SYL8360	TC	6.00	COL
TATA BAMBO KOUYATE	OURY SOUCKO	SAM077592-4	TC	6.50	COL
Powerhouse singer, Tata really gets into the swing of things with this her latest album. Instead of the usual Kora she is accompanied by some beautiful and stylish Guitar playing in the Kora tradition. Plenty of Balafon backing and simple percussion complete the make up of this wonderful Malian musical outing. A real treasure.
TATA DIAKITE	JOLIE	JOLIE	TC	£ 10.00
Wonderful set of tracks from the velvet voiced Tata backed by herself and Ramata Diakite. The guitars of Kalifa Kone with the more traditional N'goni, Keregne, Yabara and Djembe make for some lovely Wassalou music. [6T/35M]		1. DEN MISSEN 2. KASSI 3. DJIGUI YA 4. N'TANAN NI 5. DJARABI 6. KONO KAN BORA
TAYE SACKO	FACOUROU CAMARA VOL. I	SAM	TC	6.50	COL
Traditional music softly and sweetly played on flute, n'goni, balafon and guitar lead you into an ambush set by the absolutely awesome voice of Taye, not to mention her lovely chorus. Beware of using headphones as you might find your ears meeting in the middle as your skull gets crushed by this deadly decibel assault. Taye has got to be one the greatest of all the wassoulou singers and this album with its superb backing music has got to be one of the best albums to ever come out of Mali. TOTALLY GORGEOUS. (F.T.Index: Amissetou Haidara, FACOUROU CAMARA, Sekou Semega, Ali Namakry, Ma Balla, Ama Fofana. ) [6T/38M]
TENIN SIDIBE AND YORO DIALLO	DOUNYA YE WATTI	KIPK7	TC	£ 5.00
An fascinating album that combines the vibrant singing of the lovely Tenin with, strangely enough, music usually associated with Manding hunting songs! The resonant sound of the traditional n'goni (Malian Kora) in Yoro's masterful hands easily overshadows the guitar of Bayini Koita whose karignan also provides the rasping jangle of traditional percussion alongside the thump of the djembe. (F.T.Index: N Den Ten Sana, Nanifa, Watole, Kuman, Dakan, Mogoko. ) [6T/36M] Please note that there is a slight one second fade in the first track.
TENIN TOUNGARA	AUNEE	IK005	TC	6.50	COL
Accompanied only by traditional instruments such as n'goni, xalam and simple percussion, Tenin's lovely voice dominates the very simple and lovely songs without smothering them in any way. Produced by Idrissa Konate who specialises in traditional music and song, this album is definitely a collectors item. (F.T.Index: Saya Magni, Maya Ye Songaye, Maco Diarra, Aunee.) [6T/56M]
TENINGNINI DEMBA	FALA VOL 1	FALA	TC	6.50	COL
TENINGNINI DEMBA	VOLUME II (YIRBAYO)	OCWLS002	TC	6.50	COL
The first thing that hits you is the sharpness of Teningnini's voice, almost as sharp as her chorus girls in fact. The second thing is the recording botch just at the start of Nadiankafala but that is more than compensated for by the starts of Djigunasso and M'baoudi which are extraordinary tracks. I don't think I've ever come across anything quite like them from Mali before. If that wasn't enough to tempt you then just wait till you hear the guitar playing of Modibo and Oumar Diabate and the n'goni of Madou Kone and Fousseni Kouyate it's brilliant. (F.T.Index: M'baoudi, Djigunasso, Fagate Dankele, Manimamakan, Yirbayo, Nadiankafala.) [6T/32M]
TINARIWEN	THE RADIO TISDAS SESSIONS	WAYWARD703	CD	13.20	COL
TOU DIAKITE	DAKAN	OCWSL001	TC	6.50	COL
TRAORE SEYDOU	DONI DONI YA M'BELA (VOL I)	YR003P93	TC	6.50	COL
A lovely album of traditional Malian hunting songs accompanied by the mesmeric throb of the n'goni's and also by the simple tinkling, rattling and rasping sounds of the very basic percussion instruments. Once again we are treated to the sounds of the shot gun used with such devestating effect on 'Sabiri Samake Vol.1'. This time however someone told the band 'No guns in the studio' so they went outside and shot up the yard instead! It's probably only sampled but the firepower expended makes the '1812' sound a very quiet affair! Just to complete the picture, the call and response vocals are very listenable. (F.T.Index: Doni Doni Ya M'bela, Souman Nanko)
VARIOUS ARTISTS	BONYA - RESPECT	PAN2059CD	CD	£ 12.95
The second volume of Malian griot music recorded in the village of Kela, also known as the 'School of oral tradition'. Ngoni and djembe with a bit of acoustic guitar and flute provide the soft melodic music to the traditional griot songs. Most of the vocals are explosivley sung by the renowned Bintan Kouyate with the help of Lanfia & Siramori Diabate. Stunning stuff and 12 pages of notes go with it as well. [8T/74M]
VARIOUS ARTISTS	COLLECTION MALI	CDD9026	CD	7.25	COL
VARIOUS ARTISTS	COMPILATION MALI	38148-2	CD	12.35	COL
Salif Keita - Souareba, Abdoulaye Diabate - Tabale, Kasse Mady - Fode, Oumou Sangare - Diagneba, Askia Modibo - Bani Baka, Ami Koita - Diaraby, Fode Kouyate - Nterike, Nahawa Doumbia - Farafina Dembe, Kalory Sory - Sietigui, Sekou Kouyate - Keleya Kele, Tata Bembo - Alima Diawara, Coumba Sidibe - Baba, Aboubacar Traore - Santa Mariya, Dieneba Diakite - Dougou Dassiri. [14T/72M]
VARIOUS ARTISTS	DIVAS OF MALI	SHANCD64078	CD	14.70	COL
Sanougue Kouyate - Balendala Djibe. Tata Bambo Kouyate - Diadie Diawara. Nahawa Doumbia - Mogoya. Hadja Soumano - Sosso. Ami Koita - Tounya Tigui. Coumba Sidibe - Wary. Fanta Damba - Sekou Semega. Yayi Kanoute - Djugu Magni. Kandia Kouyate - Jakha. Djeneba Diakite - Taoume Maide. Sali Sidibe - Yacouba Sylla. [11T/72M]
VARIOUS ARTISTS	ELECTRIC AND ACCOUSTIC	28186-2	CD	£ 9.40
VARIOUS ARTISTS	IN GRIOT TIME: STRING MUSIC...	STCD1089	CD	£ 12.50
VARIOUS ARTISTS	LES NUITS DE BAMAKO ANNEES 70, 78	SYLAF9607	CD	12.35	COL
According to the sleeve notes these five tracks are released for the first time on CD. Walignouma Lombaliya - Rail Band/Mory Kante. Wara - Ambassadeurs/Salif Keita. Balakononifing - Rail Band/Mory Kante. Nama - National Badema/Kasse Mady. Djandjon - Ambassadeurs/Salif Keita. [5T/67M]
VARIOUS ARTISTS	MIDNIGHT IN MALI	STCD1102	CD	12.50	COL
VARIOUS ARTISTS	MUSIC DU MALI, SIRA MORY (2 CD SET)	38902-2	CD	18.40	COL
VARIOUS ARTISTS	S.O.S. SAHEL - TOMINIAN	XLS	TC	6.50	COL
The inlay tells you that the album was made by the local musicians of Tominian to aid their comunity environmental protection project. I wasn't expecting anything quite like this to come from Mali so it was a very pleasant surprise. Victorien Dembele dominates the album as his four tracks are simply superb. With throbbing drums that get faster and faster, whistles that blow your ears off and Victorien's razor sharp and spellbinding vocals are just wonderful. The other two tracks by E'agnou Dakouo and Doumba Diarra are more soft and traditional with n'goni and balafon rather than drums, they add nicely to the overall effect of the album. A little cracker this one! (F.T.Index: Wa Yi E O Wa Tu Na, Wa Tio We Ci Da, Venu Ma Yi Duo, A Bu Ne Cettebue.) [6T/36M]
VARIOUS ARTISTS	THE MUSIC OF MALI	NSCD081	CD	8.80	COL
Amadou Et Mariam - Ko Be Na Touma Do. Afel Bocoum - Jaman Moro. Super Rail Band - Mansa. Toumani Diabate and Ballake Sissoko - Bi Lamban. Kandia Kouyate - Ayamafele. Ali Farka Toure - Hilly Yoro. Fode Kouyate - Batrou Bolo. Rokia Traore - Wanita. Fantan Toure - Sanka Nyonkon. Taj Mahal and Toumani Diabate - Mississippi - Mali Blues. Boubacar Traore - Kar Kar Madison. Sidi Toure - Hoga. Oumou Sangare - Kun Fe Ko. Habib Koite - Wassiye. Salif Keita - Tekere (a cappella remix) [15T/69M]
VARIOUS ARTISTS	WORLD NETWORK 42: DIVAS FROM MALI	28.301	CD	£ 12.99
Superb quality recordings by WDR of Germany, The National Sound Archive London and World Circuit from the following artists; Kandia Kouyate 3 - Kounady La Beno, Samba Sike & Djaoura. Mah Damba 2 - Mah Damba: Sounafi & Jarabi. Lansine Kouyate 1 - Jeli. Sali Sidibe 2 - Dunia Djamou & Djana Djani. Oumou Sangare 2 - Djama Kaissoumou & Dugu Kamelenba. [10T/72M]
WALDE DAMBA	WALDE	BIEN012	TC	6.50	COL
Stunningly beautiful album. Traditional Malian music with a wealth of balafon, kora and percussion instruments. I would have bought it just for the lovely music. However with the supremely powerful and melodic voice of Walde and the chorus singers it was a case of having to get it. I would say that this album ranks as probably the best of it's type that I've come across so far and believe me I've heard loads of it.
WANDE KOUYATE	BARA MUSO	E02871191-4	TC	6.50	COL
Boy oh boy what an album! Wande's rich and power packed vocals along with that of her lovely backing singers Hawa & Oumou Sissoko are woderful to listen to. However Mama Sissoko's guitar and Keletigui's superb balafon playing almost steal the show, especially on 'Bano Yatera' which is pure classic material from end to end. It wouldn't be fair not to mention Sory Kane for his lovely ngoni playing and Rakesh Toure for his beautiful and unobtrusive keyboards. This album is GORGEOUS.
WANDE KOUYATE	DAKAN	38187-2	CD	12.35	COL
WASSALON FENIN	SIGNANA TOLON VOL I	AS9001	TC	6.50	COL
WASSOLON FENIN	VOLUME 1	FENIN	TC	6.50	COL
Totally ethnic both in vocals and instruments but non the less a great album from this four man group. Super balafon, ngoni and drums, and not hidden behind the strident Manding singing which in this case tones in beautifully. I'll definitely be watching for Volume 2.
WASSOULOU FANTA	KOMI TOUMA MANASSE	MAIK1079	TC	6.50	COL
WOMEN OF MALI	THE WASSOULOU SOUND	STCD1035	CD	7.85	COL
WOMEN OF MALI	THE WASSOULOU SOUND	STC1035	TC	£ 6.00
WOMEN OF MALI	THE WASSOULOU SOUND VOL 2	STCD1048	CD	12.50	COL
YAYI KANOUTE	DJUGU MAGNI	KBK912	TC	£ 10.00
Superb album which features some great 'Ngoni' playing by Doni Sissoko and Cheickh Hamala Diabate with 'Balafon' from Loutigui Diabate. 'Yayi's' praise singing style compliments rather than overpowers the music and this, although she is one of the 'GRANDES DAMES DU MUSIQUE MALIENNE', makes it a very musical album and well recommended if you like the music of Mali but aren't to hot on the overpowering vocals of some female artists.
YAYI KANOUTE	TU M'EMMENES	DK33	TC	£ 10.00
Her previous album 'Djugu Magni' was superb and so is this next release which is both written and sung by super singer Yayi. The music is arranged by Djelimady Tounkara who along with fellow guitarists Fadiala Diawara and Souleymane Tounkara provide the gorgeous backing. Their guitar playing is just dazzling, but the tinkling N'goni of Badje Tounkara often steals the scene from under their noses. Just listen to them all play on 'Sada Diallo' or 'Beni Dakan' to say nothing of my favourite 'Maliba'. Gorgeous from start to finish. (F.T.Index: Maliba, I Bidiyala Le Famaga, Tu M'emmenes, Sada Diallo, Beni Dakan, Wuli Le De, Solomani, An Kandjigui Ke Alaye.) [10T/47M]
YEHIA ARBY	KABA HINCA ADASA	LIAISON	TC	6.50	COL
YORO DIALLO DIT TIEKRO BANI	VOLUME I	SAM018292-4	TC	6.50	COL
Super mix of modern and a whole range of traditional instruments gives the music some rather unusual sound effects. Singer Yoro's vocals flow out over the traditional but up-tempo music beautifully. VERY NICE.
ZANI DIABATE	NI ZANI MANA	OUO09	TC	£ 10.00
Yes, you did read it correctly, Zani Diabate and the Super Djata Band! Nothing has been on the market since his stunning 'Super Djata' LP back in 1985 and its recent CD re-issue. It was well worth the wait. Time may have slightly mellowed Zani's break neck guitar playing but now with a much more vocally orientated album he is back to re-affirm his place as one of Mali's most outstanding guitarists. Every track on the album brought back memories of his Brighton gig back in 89 but 'Doussou' and 'Diarabi', not to mention 'Monaitheban' surpassed even the best of that wonderful night. ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT.
ZANI DIABATE AND THE SUPER DJATA BAND	SUPER DJATA	ILPS9899	LP	15.00	COL
Zani Diabate was born in 1947 into one of the greatest Griot families in Mali. A multi instrumentalist (Kora, Guitar, Balafon and percussion) he joined the National Ballet of Mali, the country's premier folkloric dance and music ensemble in 1963. Along with six other singers and dancers from the ballet he formed Super Djata in 1969. A widely acclaimed personality on the Malian music scene, Zani is foremost a totally original guitarist who has adapted traditional rhythms and melodies to modern electric instrumentation. Zani's guitar style brings to mind players such as Jimi Hendrix, T-Bone Walker, B. B. King and Freddie King whilst remaining unmistakably Malian in his approach to music. The Super Djata Band draw upon traditional Malian culture for inspiration: Rhythms and dances of Bambara hunters and Bozo fishermen, together with the melodies of the Peul and Malinka, spiced with Zani's almost psychedelic guitar.