Jombaajo

1. Suka Naayo

2. Demga Lam

3. Baydikacce

4. Jombaajo

5. Miyahata

6. Sakambewdo

7. Thiaroye

8. Farba

9. Lagiuya

10. Ngawla

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
While it doesn't seem like it from the release date, this was recorded early in Baaba Maal's career, before he became an international superstar. And though it's not as sophisticated as his later work, the elements that would bring him true success are in place, with a tight band and imaginative compositions like "Demga Lam" and "Baydikacce" that draw as much from reggae as from Maal's native Senegal. The production is somewhat dated, but the melodies and excellent voice are in fine shape, harking back to the time when Maal was the main challenger to Youssou N'Dour's Dakar crown, before they both became global favorites. Maal's more rural background is reflected in the acoustic tones and samples of "Ngawla." Jombaajo offers insight into the development of Maal's career and the pathway to superstardom. Not a classic, but a worthwhile stop on the journey. --Chris Nickson

Tracks:

Suka Naayo
Demga Lam
Baydikacce
Jombaajo
Miyahata
Sakambewdo
Thiaroye
Farba
Lagiuya
Ngawla

Amazon.com

While it doesn't seem like it from the release date, this was recorded early in Baaba Maal's career, before he became an international superstar. And though it's not as sophisticated as his later work, the elements that would bring him true success are in place, with a tight band and imaginative compositions like "Demga Lam" and "Baydikacce" that draw as much from reggae as from Maal's native Senegal. The production is somewhat dated, but the melodies and excellent voice are in fine shape, harking back to the time when Maal was the main challenger to Youssou N'Dour's Dakar crown, before they both became global favorites. Maal's more rural background is reflected in the acoustic tones and samples of "Ngawla." Jombaajo offers insight into the development of Maal's career and the pathway to superstardom. Not a classic, but a worthwhile stop on the journey. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

Perhaps not the best place to start.......2000-09-29

Like the other reviewer, I look forward to Baaba Maal's new releases, but I found this particular one was relatively disappointing. I believe most if not all of the songs here, are found on other albums, and without so much of the spirit and energy that really makes Baaba Maal's music come alive. This album sort of feels like a Lawrence Welk-icized version of some of his otherwise best songs - the drums sound muted, and keyboards replace some of the more exotic stringed instuments... man, even the horns sound synthesized and dull.

Go for "Djam Leelii" if you'd like to listen to a more meditative and gorgeous Baaba Maal record, listen to "Firin in Fouta" for a danceable and funky party disc, or get "Nomad Soul" for a refined and polished fusion/collaboration listen. I think they released "Jombaajo" for us purists who automatically buy anything with his name on it. :)

You shouldn't miss this!.......2000-07-04

Baaba Maal is definitely a master at blending pop rythyms and traditional African sounds. Every year I wait for a new Baaba Maal release and again I am not disappointed!

Rock Music:

Rock Music

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