| 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] | |||||
| ABDOULAYE DIABATE | BENDE | 09287-2 | CD | 13.85 | COL |
| 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? | |||||
| 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] | |||||
| ABDOULAYE DIABATE AND KENE STAR | KASSIKOUN | 38765-2 | CD | 12.65 | COL |
| [8T/41M] | |||||
| ABDOULAYE DIABATE AND KENE STAR | KASSIKOUN | SYL8387 | TC | £ 6.50 | |
| [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] | |||||
| 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 1 HISTOIRE DE SABALY | ABK7001 | TC | £ 6.50 | |
| Basically this album which is one very long track could be described as spoken rather than sung but then this doesn't allow for the kora which Bari plays throughout and which makes such an important contribution in the telling of the story. | |||||
| 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 | £ 20.00 | |
| 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. | |||||
| 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 | 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 | |
| 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. | CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO LBLC2534 Track. Sa Golo | ||||
| 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] | |||||
| 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) | |||||
| 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 | |
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| 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, Djlimady 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. Djlimady 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 | 7.00 | COL |
| Djeneba's singing is simply gorgeous as she beltss 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. ( F.T.Index: Barika Barika, Fassa magni, Konkankokoni, Malidenw, Maya. ) [5T/31M] | |||||
| DJENEBA SECK | DJOUROU | SYLAF96065 | CD | 12.35 | COL |
| 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) | |||||
| 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 |
| 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] | |||||
| 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. | |||||
| 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 | ||||
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| 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 |
| 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 clapp | |||||