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Sample Track 1:
"Mali Ba" from Afriki
Sample Track 2:
"Nta Dima" from Afriki
Layer 2
CD Review

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Habib Koite and Bamada

Afriki

Cumbancha
Habib Koite’s recordings are noted for their dense but flowing guitar work, the seamless integration of traditional instruments such as the balafon and ngoni into the mix, the socially conscious lyrics, and Habib’s own flexible and easy vocal delivery.  It has been six years since he released his last studio recording. On his new disc Afriki, Koite delivers much the same sound as his previous albums. For the most part, there is not much new to destinguish it from its predecessors. Still, if you enjoyed Baro and Ma Ya,
most likely Afriki will please you, too.  Standout tracks include Massake, which features virile unison singing from the band and enthusiastic energy, and Nta Dima, using a chorus of Malian
hunting horns, an endangered instrument not widely used today. Upon hearing its wild, charming tones on this album, I’m hoping Koite can resurrect it into modern usage.

– By Lark Clark 09/25/07
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