Chamber Music is a fine title for this relaxed and beautifully elaborate collection, played principally by Malian kora player Ballaké Sissoko and French cellist Vincent Segal.

In their respective nations, both instruments are regarded as classical, but this collaboration leans more strongly towards African rhythms as the two play off each other like jazz musicians.

The 21-string kora is a cross between a harp and a lute, which gives off a clean, plucked sound. Its high, ringing tones beautifully complement the smooth, low, bowed cello notes and add definition when the two instruments are plucked in unison.

Most of the disc was recorded late at night and the stillness of the setting seeps through the speakers, with Chamber Music offering entrancing, rippling pieces, one after the other.

Highlights include the memorable themes of “Houdesti “, “Mako Mady” and the title track; the striking dynamic range and low timbres of “Oscarine”; and Awa Sanagho’s finesse on the disc’s only vocal track. As she ends her lines on “Regret-À Kader Barry” her voice almost becomes an instrument.

Type “Ballake Sissoko & Vincent Segal 5/9” into YouTube to get a close feel for the mutual understanding that the two have developed, the leisurely pace of this beautiful collaboration and its intricate strings-work.