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CD Review
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Cranky Crow World Music, CD Review >>
With so many talented musicians coming out of Mali, I would be surprised if anyone reading this site couldn't locate Mali on a map. Musically speaking, Mali is one of the wealthiest countries in the world even if it is not economically powerful. It's power derives from the soulfulness of its musicians and its diversity of cultures which are reflected in the music of Mali. African bluesman Boubacar Traorè needs little introduction and with so many compilation CDs and documentary projects dedicated to West African blues and its connection to American blues, I'd think that most people reading this review will have a pretty good idea of the sound that appears on Boubacar's latest CD, Kongo Magni.
Inspired by American early rock n' roll in his youth, Boubacar was once dubbed a Malian Chuck Berry or Elvis Presley. According to the liner notes, "Nowadays, Kar Kar (his nickname), works on tone color, simplicity and emotions. The poetry arising from his compositions is unique on the African continent." On his latest CD, he is joined by "Pedro" Kouyate on calabash gourd, Keletigui Diabatè on balafon, Yoro Diallo on ngoni, Vincent Butcher on a very soulful harmonica, Regis Gizavo on accordion and Emile Biayenda on percussion. The sound here is earthy, slightly somber and bluesy acoustic.
The opening track, Djonkana features harmonica and blues guitar backed by percussion. Sènèkèka brings Diabatè's balafon to the forefront, giving the tune a rollicking feel. The emotional, Dounia Tabolo which reflects on Boubacar's late wife, Pierrette and his new granddaughter of the same name marries blues guitar and voice with Malian percussion. It was recorded in a single take on the first recording day at the studio in Bamako. Kongo Magni is a lovely companion to Tinariwen, Ali Farka Tourè and other West African blues recordings. And it gets better and better with each listen. For tour information please visit Rock Paper Scissors or check out the Cranky Crow Calendar. World Village. 09/01/05 >> go there
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