The Kora & the Xylophone: Sounds of West Africa

Product Description
Music of the Lobi and Dagarti tribes of Northern Ghana with their distinctive xylophone. The Griots (praise singers ) play the kora, a harp-lute with 21 strings from Gambia, Senegal, Mali and Guinea Bissau. Features world famous Gambian Kora player, Foday Musa Suso!

The Kora & the Xylophone: Sounds of West Africa,Various Artists,Lyrichord Discs Inc.,Africa,African,Afro-Pop,Guinea,Int'l & World Music,Pop,World Music

Average customer rating: Music...as good as it can ever get Another classic Good Album very "West African" Refreshing change Beautiful African Mali Masterpiece

In the Heart of the Moon Ali Farka Touré , and Toumani Diabate Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Guinea | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Talking Timbuktu Savane New Ancient Strings Boulevard de l'Independance Dimanche a Bamako ASIN: B000AQ69DG Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

1. Debe
2. Kala
3. Mamadou Boutiquier
4. Monsieur Le Maire De Niafunke
5. Kaira
6. Simbo
7. Ai Ga Bani
8. Soumbou Ya Ya
9. Naweye Toro
10. Kadi Kadi
11. Gomni
12. Hawa Dolo

Amazon.com

Ali Farka Toure fans expecting to hear another fiery electric blues effort from the African John Lee Hooker are in for a big surprise. Toure's first album after a six- year hiatus is mostly an acoustic duo with kora master Toumani Diabate that draws upon Malian and Guinean folk style from the 1950s and '60s called Jamana Kura, which grew out of the Mande griot music tradition. Both musicians were children at the time this music was popularized and a yearning sentimentality flavors many of the songs, particularly "Hawa Dolo," one of three Toure tunes rerecorded here in that older style. Other surprises abound as well: there are only two vocal tracks from the deep-voice Toure, and much of the soloing is actually handled by the flittering Diabate. Minus a few overdubs by guests like Ry Cooder, the music here were first takes from a jam session in which the two musicians would improvising over the basic structures. Nonetheless, this loose approach matched with the stunning beauty of the playing makes it a treasure worth holding on to. --Tad Hendrickson

Album Description

In the Heart of the Moon is a summit meeting between two world music giants, guitarist Ali Farka Toure and master of the kora-the 21-string gourd harp-toumani Diabate. It is the first newly recorded work from either artist in five years and their first album-length collaboration. More an eloquent, in-depth dialogue than a jam session, In The Heart Of the Moon was recorded during three unrehearsed, improvisatory two-hour sessions at the Hotel Mande, on the banks of the Niger river, in Bamako, Mali.

Customer Reviews:

Music...as good as it can ever get.......2007-08-06

I read from one review that not even 5 million stars could rate this album. I agree. If you are a musician, and you know what it gets to play what these 2 wise monsters of music play, you know that what you have in front of you requires technique, inspiration, and lots of wisdom...

I have heard this CD a million times, and every time I listen to it I just stop whatever I am doing and see myself traveling in some magic world of feelings, conversations. Have you heard "Mamadou Boutiquier"? What a perfect masterpiece! How could in the earth someone just get together, play, and create such a beauty? How can two people, without rehearsing, who have only played once together, who play different music traditions, create something like that? How the song evolves, build its momentum through a progressive intensity, cries out so loud the power of music?

And Hawa Dolo? Ali Farka's song, not one of my favorites, reaches a different dimension in this version. The nostalgic power of this song is difficult to equal.

Kala, Debe, and Kadi Kadi's solos... my gosh! I don't know, I listen to this music and I feel overwhelmed with humility, with admiration to how much these two musicians must know about life, about human beings, about the strings inside us, to do what they just did.

Remember that this is not an improvisation, as Ali says in the cover. They both knew what they were playing, even though they had never played together. They understood a language that for most of us is a mystery.

Thank you Ali Farka and Toumani, the beauty of your work is so inspiring!

Another classic.......2007-06-27

Need I say more-this album is a keeper. Might not be as catchy as Talking Timbuktu. Nonetheless, beautiful and powerful.

Good Album very "West African".......2007-05-16

West Africans will not deceive you with their music FROM ANOTHER world Ismael Lo; Toure Kounda.They are one of kind Ali Farka Toure is one of this Musician who will take you somewhere else.This album is good for driving for a quiet night with your friends at your place.You will not be sorry to have it in your collection.

Refreshing change.......2007-05-13

Well chosen selections provide a refreshing change from the ordinary. It doesn't matter that I didn't understand the language, I could understand the music. Bluesy ballads with gutsy rythmns.

Beautiful African Mali Masterpiece.......2007-05-04

I'm really baffled by the few who trashed this CD. It has no "three chord progressions". The truth is worse than that. All the songs are two chord progressions except the last piece which would be a three chord progression if it weren't for a bridge. True Ali Farka Toure's other CD's can get tiring pretty fast, he is on this CD to basically provide a rhythmic background to Toumani Diabate's Kora. So much so, I can't believe it's even considered a Toure album. This is Toumani Diabate's music all the way and he leaves little doubt that he is by far the finest Kora player ever. I found it anything but bland. Maybe their stereo isn't operating properly. Maybe it's critics threw it on and went in another room and lost all that high end flurry of notes that come blazing across the rhythm section. In the end, maybe it's just the different way people listen to music. I have 3 other Farka Toure CD's and this one leaves the others in the dust. An excellent CD for anyone with a taste for the music of Mali.

Average customer rating: Pure beauty CELESTIAL MELODIES!!!!! The most unique CD I own. Absolutely Magical! Heavenly ! This should be 5 STARs only

New Ancient Strings Toumani Diabaté Manufacturer: Hannibal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Hannibal Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music $8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Kaira In the Heart of the Moon Moffou Boulevard de l'Independance Amassakoul ASIN: B00000JFRU Release Date: 1999-06-22

Tracks:

1. Bi Lambam
2. Salaman
3. Kita Kaira
4. Bafoulabe
5. Cheiknah Demba
6. Kora Bali
7. Kadiatou
8. Yamfa

Amazon.com

Back in the early '70s, a recording by kora masters Sidiki Diabate and Djelimadi Sissoko called Cordes Anciennes first brought this rich acoustic music of Mali to the world. More than 20 years later, their sons, the now world-famous Toumani Diabate and the junior Ballake Sissoko, have come together to pay tribute to their fathers with 1999's New Ancient Strings. While many of the songs come from the original repertoire, the music is all modern Mali. Toumani Diabate has toured the world as a soloist, as a member of fusion groups like Songhai (with flamenco fusionist Ketama), and he has incorporated subtle changes into his music that makes it a living affirmation of the strength of the ancient harp of Africa. Together Diabate and Sissoko explore their fathers' roots while traveling their own new routes. This is the first all-acoustic kora recording Diabate has done since his stunning Kaira, released more than 10 years prior to New Ancient Strings, and it shows a mature and forward-looking artist that would make the elder Diabate proud. --Louis Gibson

Customer Reviews:

Pure beauty .......2007-03-22

Another reviewer said that this music 'grows on you"- but on me it didn't have to. I think this is the most purely beautiful music I've ever heard (that, and certain pages of Bach and Mozart).

Even though - or because - it's desert music, it conjures up fast-flowing water at night: it's mellow, quiet, deeply relaxing, yet full of energy. I can listen to it before going to bed or while at work. I've never tried to play it when other people are around though, it strikes me as 'private moment' music. Think I might play it at my next dinner party to see whether the conversation stops!

I've been listening to West African music for years now, and it's all beautiful. But if you have to own only one CD of music from the Sahel, make it this one.

CELESTIAL MELODIES!!!!!.......2005-10-02

THIS IS THE KIND OF MUSIC I EXPECT TO LISTEN TO, WHEN I GO TO HEAVEN!!!!....WELL,.......IF I END UP GOING THERE!!!
I DON'T KNOW OF A TUNE MORE HARMONIOUS, ETHEREAL AND DIVINE THAN "KITA KAIRA"......OF ALL THE EARTHLY MUSIC THAT I'VE LISTENED TO, THIS IS THE CLOSEST THING TO HEAVENLY MUSIC!!!!
"YAMFA" IS ANOTHER OUTSTANDING MELODY FROM THIS GEM!!!
FROM THE "KAIRA" ALBUM..."ALLA LA KE", "KONKOBA" AND "KAIRA", COMPLEMENT THESE MASTERPIECES OF HARMONY!!!
I JUST HAVE TO THANK GOD FOR ALLOWING ME TO LISTEN TO THIS HEAVENLY MUSIC,.....RIGHT HERE..........ON EARTH!!!
TOUMANI AND BALLAKE THE TALENTED ANGELS ON KORAS!!!

The most unique CD I own. Absolutely Magical!.......2004-06-07

Thank God for Amazon's music samples. It's impossible to describe to someone just what this plucked African string music sounds like. You have to hear it for yourself. It's absolute auditory refreshment.

Heavenly !.......2003-05-17

this is one of my favorites. needless to say, it is beautifully ritualistic in the light of tranquility.

This should be 5 STARs only.......2003-02-12

Only 4.5 stars? What? Come on? This album is one of the most serene, tranquil, and masterful African albums I have heard. And I personally own over 120 albums from the continent. This is one of my favorites. Why? Well, the moment I turn this on, I am instantly transformed underwater to a surging seaweed garden. The seaweed is going back and forth slowly and in unison. I am submerged, weightless and floating. (Yes, I am sober.) The mood created by the instruments and musicians in this album is incredible. Very few albums affect my mood the way this one does. And I can listen over and over and over and it does the same effect everytime. I wouldn't be surprised if the reviewer at Amazon.com gets this album and listens to it while he/she is posting my review. This really is a 5-star work and only that. You will not be disappointed with owning this.

Average customer rating: A Masterpiece Big band sound of West Africa Great new music for an old hippie One of the best albums I've ever owned Glorious and Lush

Boulevard de l'Independance Toumani Diabate Symmetric Orchestra Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Savane In the Heart of the Moon New Ancient Strings Sound Grammar Kaira ASIN: B000FVHKFW Release Date: 2006-07-10

Tracks:

1. Toumani
2. Boulevard de l'Independance
3. Ya Fama
4. Mali Sadio
5. Africa Challenge
6. Wasso
7. Mamadou Diaby
8. Tapha Niang
9. Single

Amazon.com

Toumani Diabate, scion of one of Mali's oldest hereditary musical dynasties, was born into a few-centuries-worth of hard-acts-to-follow. But his output continues his father Sidiki's life-long exploration of the manifold possibilities of the kora, West Africa's glorious 21-string harp-lute. Aside from folklore-based recitals, such as New Ancient Strings with fellow kora virtuoso Ballake Sissoko, he has also released a quiver-full of genre-bursting experiments. The flamenco-infused Songhai albums, Kulanjan, with American roots master Taj Mahal, and 2005's Grammy-winning In The Heart Of The Moon with the late, great Malian guitarist Ali Farka, are only a few highlights. The present project, featuring a 50-member big band hailing from Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Côte D'Ivoire, and Guinée, can best be described as neo-trad-with-attitude. Local xylophones, plucked instruments, and percussion abut drum kits and electric bass. The string arrangements sometimes recall Zanzibar's Taarab orchestras, while the brass charts have an aggressive yet tasty swagger; you might not imagine that the kora could work as a lead instrument in such company but it does. Further graced by the astounding vocals of Kasse Mady Diabate and a mixed chorale, this is a ground-breaking and soon-to-be-legendary release. --Christina Roden

Album Description

Boulevard de l'Independance is an ambitious , big-band follow-up to In The Heart of the Moon; a bold synthesis of acoustic and electric, elegant and earthy, shimmering melodies and irresistable grooves, recorded in two weeks' worth of all-night sessions in the Malian capital of Bamako. It's a vivid recreation of the group's Friday night residency at Bamako's Hogon nightclub that retains the hot, lookse and live feel of the popular gig.

Customer Reviews:

A Masterpiece.......2007-04-25

I agree with every other reviewer here. This album is uplifting, and inspiring, and a pure delight in every way. I usually shy away from absolutes and realize that musical taste is subjective, but I really believe this is one of the finest pieces of music ever recorded, regardless of genre.

This CD belongs in any serious library of music and will certainly win over the descriminating listener who may not be very familiar with African music. A masterpiece!!!

Big band sound of West Africa.......2007-03-27

Because of the likes of Ry Cooder seeking the orgins of Cuban music you have to go through West Africa and the slave trade. Diabate besides being a skilled musician having with the best of West Africa has brought together a talented group that has the craftmanship to present the music of West Africa that one appreciated the sound and is struck the the beauty of these people and their history as expressed in the album. If you have a yearning for a unique jazz/blues sound give this a try.

Great new music for an old hippie.......2007-03-09

Having been raised on doo wop and the Beatles.... what a joy to find this album at this stage of my life
An absoulutely wonderful piece and it is great for workouts at the gym.

One of the best albums I've ever owned.......2007-02-14

This album is sheer brilliance and I just can't seem to get sick of it. Unlike Toumani Diabate's other albums (all of which are great as well; see especially IN THE HEART OF THE MOON), this album has more of a big-band sound to it. It's significantly more jazzy and less acoustic than his other work. The "Symmetric Orchestra" adds an incredible touch to Diabate's already-amazing musicianship. The vocals in "Wasso," "Mamadou Diaby," and "Boulevard de l'Independence" are breathtakingly gorgeous and provide a calmer, more spiritual sound to the jazzed and high-energy tracks like "Africa Challenge," "Toumani," and "Single."

All in all, a great album: diverse, unique, traditional elements juxtaposed with modern sounds, inspirational, energetic, reflective: perfection. My only complaint is that I wish it had more tracks, but an album this good would never have enough tracks to satiate my ears - it would always keep me wanting more!

Give this album a Grammy!

Glorious and Lush.......2007-01-23

Diabate's distinctive singing and Kora playing (West African lute/harp) is beautifullly enhanced with the backing of the Symmetric Orchestra. With big band arrangements for percussions, horns, guitar and vocals the sound is irresistably lively (sometimes like Nigerian Highlife), but also smooth and urbane (like Youssou N'Dour and Super Etoile's mbalax sound). Helpful liner notes as well put the orchestra and songs into context.

Strangely enough, I'm reminded of the big band treatment Frank Zappa's tunes have gotten recently; creative arrangements of complex material yielding an easy listening experience.

This recording embodies what I love about African music - superb musicianship playing complex rhythms, with contemporary sensibilty and traditional, timeless grounding.

Average customer rating: The Voice Transcendant Profound sound. Uplifting Great CD Soothing, Melodious, Soulful voices from Africa

African Voices Various Artists Manufacturer: Narada ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Africa | Compilations | International | Styles | Music Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Compilations | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Electronic | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Jazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: En Mana Kuoyo The Constant Gardener Wonders of the African World Exile Tunula Eno ASIN: B000005P64 Release Date: 1996-09-24

Tracks:

1. Kothbiro - Ayub Ogada
2. Dala - Ayub Ogada
3. Ondiek - Ayub Ogada
4. Sutu Kun - Vieux Diop
5. Jali - Vieux Diop
6. Ekibobo - Samite
7. Ndere - Samite
8. Wasuze Otya? - Samite
9. Ngak - Lucky Diop
10. Igne - Lucky Diop
11. Mamadi - Lucky Diop
12. Woza Azania - Kevin Nathaniel
13. Tatenda - Kevin Nathaniel

Customer Reviews:

The Voice Transcendant.......2005-09-26

Only a listen to this incredible and sublime collection with convince noise-weary ears and world-heavy souls of the healing power of the human voice.

I would love to hear a collection of this type which featured the voices of African women like Angelique Kidjo and Miriam Makeba.

Get it. You'll revisit it over and over.

Profound sound........2004-02-28

Ive had this album for four years, I still listen to it on A weekly basis and never tire of it.It's very soul stirring,the first of the songs kothbiro is the most haunting of all of them.Dala and ondiek are my next favourites.
It's a wonderful album to have when life gets very chaotic and busy,it stops you right in your tracks.Highly reccommended as an introduction to the very wide scope of african music.

Uplifting.......2004-01-25

I heard this CD when visiting Bogota. I walked into a gallery of the local artists and the music captured my soul. I was so moved by the melodies, I had to find out the title of the CD. The music is transcendent. My favorites are Kothbiro, Ondiek and Sutu Kun, and the invigorating, rythmic Ekbobo. But the best has to be the Wasuze Otya track with the laughter of the singers at the end of the track; you can sense their joy in their songs. The music is so uplifting and premeates with a positive feeling -- you can tell that the singers feel joy in living, and in life through the range of wonderful music; you want to go to their land, and be in their space. Wonderful!!! A must have!!!

Great CD.......2003-12-23

This is one of the best CDs around. It is well worth it.

Soothing, Melodious, Soulful voices from Africa.......2001-12-06

Very relaxing, very appealing voices. A great blend of lyrics, vocals and instruments come together to deliver a superb music CD with each song leaving you completely invigorated and revitalized

Average customer rating: killa sound of african music Beautiful, motivating music Wonderful music A great solo album New Classic for Strings

Kaira Toumani Diabaté Manufacturer: Hannibal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Hannibal Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: New Ancient Strings In the Heart of the Moon Djelika Boulevard de l'Independance Savane ASIN: B00000061L Release Date: 1991-07-01

Tracks:

1. Alla L'Aa Ke
2. Jarabi
3. Kaira
4. Konkoba
5. Tubaka

Amazon.com

This is a groundbreaking work establishing the 21-string kora as a solo instrument of great subtlety and range. Toumani Diabate is a virtuoso player and he delves into the classical West African kora repertoire with his masterful technique. The result is music that is both absolutely contemporary and totally timeless. The songs include the title track "Kaira," which means peace, and "Jarabi," which translates as passion. Peace and passion are key words pointing to why this album is so successful. Quietly, with dignity and grace, Toumani Diabate brings great beauty into the world, producing wellsprings of flowing music that transport the listener to a place of intense calmness and tranquillity. Kaira is a classic African recording that transcends genre to stand humbly among the best music ever produced. --Jeff Grubb

Customer Reviews:

killa sound of african music.......2006-11-11

To be honest i'm still xploring west african music and i started collect and hearing about this music only in 2005 and i love this sounds.Its a pity coz i will not be able to collect everything but at least i managed to start somewhere and still looking forward to take advantage of the continent at large. Great sound indeed from my fellow africans.

Beautiful, motivating music.......2005-09-14

I own 2 CDs by Toumani Diabate, Kaira and New Ancient Strings. Perhaps it's because I had Kaira first and fell in love with the kora through this CD, but Kaira is definitely my favorite of the two (don't get me wrong - I love both and actively listen to both). On Kaira Toumani Diabate plays solo kora, and when I realized that this was one person playing one instrument with no overdubbing I was floored. The music has so many layers to it, bass lines, rhythm, melody, that it is amazing to know it comes from only ten fingers (not sure how many of those you actually use to play the kora). It is beautiful, complex, ethereal, and somehow motivating all at once.

When I went to the hospital to give birth I brought 2 CDs with me - this one and Putmayo's Music from the Tea Lands collection (I highly recommend this one too). As I played these 2 CDs over and over (and over and over) during labor the hospital staff kept complimenting the music and the atmosphere that it created. Ultimately I gave birth to the Toumani Diabate CD, with the doctor humming along. I still listen to this CD all the time, after having owned it for years! This is a true testament to any music, that it stands the test of time.

Wonderful music.......2004-05-26

It is very lively music, armonious and easy to listen. It sounds quite modern and light, almost danceable.

A great solo album.......2004-02-05

This is my favourite CD featuring Toumani Diabate. If you are interested in kora music, this is THE album to get

New Classic for Strings.......2002-08-09

I studied classical music for quite a few years (as an amateur who enjoys piano and chamber music.) What is the most-played CD in my collection? Chopin's Nocturnes, the Moscow Concert of Horowitz? Nope, it's a CD by Toumani Diabate, New Ancient Strings. I am so addicted to the sound of the Mali harp-lute, the kora, that I also bought this CD "Kaira" or "Peace."

This is a much earlier CD, dating back to 1988. It is a solo CD, that is, Diabate plays alone instead of with a friend to provide the traditional rocking bass that support the improvisational treble. Here, on Kaira, Diabate plays both parts treble and bass, so the music is more immediate, but less complex. It's also livelier and has some very folk-sounding tunes. My particular favorite is "Jarabi" , with it's rocking, two-note figure in the base, and a rippling melody.

Diabate is the son of the Mali kora "King" --so he is often referred to as, of course, the "Prince" of the kora. His music is complex, jazzlike, traditional and fascinating. If you liked New Ancient Strings and want to hear Diabate on his own, this is an interesting and listenable CD. I played it for someone who was unfamiliar with Diabate and kora music and he was impressed, too.

Average customer rating: Commercial and disappointing Interesting and Infectious Rhythms Pieces that fit together a continent Buy this CD! inventive and lively

Pieces of Africa Hamza El Din , Obo Addy , Kevin Volans , Terrence Kelly , Hank Dutt , David Harrington , Joan Jeanrenaud , John Sherba , Said Hakmoun , Radouane Laktib , Dan Pauli , and Kronos Quartet Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Kronos Quartet | ( K ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Minimal Techno | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Kronos Quartet | ( K ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Kronos Caravan Nuevo Mugam Sayagi: Music of Franghiz Ali-Zadeh Kronos Quartet Performs Philip Glass Kronos Quartet : Winter Was Hard ASIN: B000005J15 Release Date: 1992-03-03

Tracks:

1. Mother Nozipo
2. I'm Happy
3. Sunset
4. First Movement
5. Waterwheel
6. Our Beginning
7. White Man Sleeps: I.
8. White Man Sleeps: II.
9. White Man Sleeps: III.
10. White Man Sleeps: IV.
11. White Man Sleeps: V.
12. Spreading

Customer Reviews:

Commercial and disappointing.......2000-12-19

If this CD has made this fantastic quartet known to a larger number of people, then, it's fine. But what a desappointment in terms of music ! A few interresting songs, but i can't feel any great inspiration in this commercial CD poorly surfing on the ethnic wave. A shame.

Interesting and Infectious Rhythms.......2000-10-31

When this recording was first released, it remained a best-selling classical CD for some time, even though it is not "classical music" in the strict sense of that term. But it is a grabber. It presents some very interesting compositions by contemporary African composers, that while different, are also listenable. Unless one's mind is totally closed to new sounds and new ideas, this is quite an enjoyable collection.

In addition to the African composers, which this CD brings to our attention, it has also served as an introduction for many of us to the Kronos Quartet, a talented group of musicians, who perform a varied repertoire. They are quite good and never boring, as these performances amply demonstrate.

Pieces that fit together a continent.......2000-08-29

More than just a compilation of great music by noted African composers, the album is a repository for the emotional richness of Africa. Each piece is lively, intricate and accessible. There is much joy here; the tracks are full of happiness, heat and nightfall. Also sorrow, but that's Africa, too. A friend gave this to me when I happened to be writing a book about Africa, and it became my soundtrack. I have given dozens of CDs to friends who love Africa. From "Sunset" by Foday Musa Suso to "Waterwheel" by Hamza El Din, "Pieces of Africa" is one of the great musical adventures of the past decade.

Buy this CD!.......2000-03-02

I largely consider myself an alternative rock fan and to describe my knowledge of classical music as "limited" would be kind. I first got to know Kronos when they covered Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir" and had a video (which I saw once) on either VH1 or MTV. I was fascinated, so when they came to perform at my college (back in 1992) I went to see them. It was like nothing I had ever seen before. They didn't play, they didn't perform in the sense that most classical artists I've seen perform. It has one-half recital, one-half performance art.

So, I rushed out and bought a CD--fortunately it was "Pieces of Africa." I have since bought about half of Kronos's CDs, and all of their releases since, but this one ranks as my favorite. Why? It is joyful, uplifiting, and spiritual without being sentimental. It is a beautiful CD, rich in texture and melody. The quartet is often accompanied by vocalists, drummers, and other African musicians in a way that doesn't simply "feature" them, but integrates them. You can feel the collaboration among the artists.

Above all, this CD offers an accessible, non-threatening introduction to Kronos and their work. If you never explore beyond this CD, never buy Tan Dun or Night Prayers, your life will still be better for having heard this wonderful music.

inventive and lively.......1999-11-11

I especially like the quartet by Volans and waterwheel. But there are no bad pieces here and most are sprightly and inventive, with a few really beuatiful ones.

Average customer rating: Striking at the Heart of the Blues ... Hitting Dead Center The Primordial Roots of Music Cultures blended Music for being... Nice blend of blues and African music

Kulanjan Taj Mahal & Toumani Diabate Manufacturer: Hannibal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Blues | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Hannibal Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music General | Blues | Indie Music | Stores | Music Contemporary Blues | Blues | Indie Music | Stores | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: New Ancient Strings Kaira Djelika In the Heart of the Moon Boulevard de l'Independance ASIN: B00000JRLX Release Date: 1999-08-03

Tracks:

1. Queen Bee
2. Tunkaranke
3. Ol' Georgia Buck
4. Kulanjan
5. Fanta
6. Guede Man Na
7. Catfish Blues
8. K'an Ben
9. Take This Hammer
10. Atlanta Kaira
11. Mississippi-Mali Blues
12. Sahara

Amazon.com

Perennial blues road warrior Taj Mahal and Malian kora (harp-lute) ambassador Toumani Diabate join forces, blend textures, and intermingle idioms on this cleanly produced 12-song set, recorded in 1998 in Athens. Their common ground is best tilled on "Atlanta Kaira" and the title track, where the plucky filigrees and glittering tone of the kora sound right at home with Taj's darker, barking National Reso-Phonic steel. "Ol' Georgie Buck" and their canny cover of Muddy Waters's "Catfish Blues" are the album's blues banners, which find Diabate's kora delightfully incongruous, while the walking African ballad "Tunkaranke" leans most heavily toward the motherland. Fleshed out with fine vocals by Taj, Kasse Mady Diabate, and Malian chanteuse Ramata Diakate ("Queen Bee"), and other African instruments, the sound is defiantly acoustic, intimate, and surprisingly true. --James Rotondi

Customer Reviews:

Striking at the Heart of the Blues ... Hitting Dead Center.......2003-11-01

Taj Mahal (American jazz & blues artist) and Toumani Diabate (famous Mali kora musician) explore the roots of the blues from its very source ... they show us how remnants of the past are contained in the blues music of today. The music and oral tradition of the griots, who sang the praises of the kings in ancient times, plus the music of the hunters, termed termed wassoulou, form the basis and foundation of the blues. Ancient instruments, such as, the kora, a 21 stringed, harp-like instrument combine with modern blues guitar music. There are astonishing improvisations and melodies which have the listener, tapping one's fingers and moving one's body in response to the music ... Some of the songs are classics, from either Mali or the American blues, others are original songs which arose during the jam sessions. In either case, it is great music by anyone's definition or standards ...

The music on this CD is so very pure, authentic and original, that it convinces this listener, that indeed, these musicians found "the source". Although, Africa is a vast, large continent, when I first heard the music of Mali, I was captivated, it spoke to my heart. The spirit, feeling and emotions are enlivend when listening to the instruments and voices which combine on this CD. In magical ways this music carries a message of joy, of life, of energy, of beauty, of peace, serenity, of a balance and harmony in the universe ... Erika Borsos (erikab93)

The Primordial Roots of Music.......2003-02-14

The Bottom Line: An organic roots album with simple but evocative melodies and accompaniment. Surpising blend of two musical traditions more similar than different. Like long lost brothers reuniting.

Is there a primordial music? Something with roots so deep that all human music sprung from it. It may be impossible to answer that question, but one has to wonder if Taj Mahal & Toumani Diabate have managed to tap into that primordial musical root.

There has been a growing consciousness of the similarities between old-school American blues and the music of the African nation of Mali. Albums such as Mali to Memphis (Putumayo) have explored that synchronicity by compiling songs from Malian and American blues artists. The album Kulanjan takes the synchronicity much further. Living blues and jazz legend Taj Mahal had been interested in Malian music since the early 70's and had always wanted to explore it fully. Finally, he decided to take the time to do so. He brought seven musicians from Mali, including kora master Toumani Diabate to Athens, Georgia in April 1999 to record a blues-Malian album.

Like fraternal twins separated at birth, the musical styles of Mahal and Diabate complement each other perfectly. Both musicians were amazed at how natural was the blend of their traditions. All 12 songs on the album were recorded in only a few days, each track needed only one or two takes. Both artists remarked that the songs arranged themselves springing out of a jam session on the porch of a house in Georgia.

The naturalness, the sheer organic flavor of the music bears that out. Diabate's 21-string kora (think of a tenor guitar) forms a sweet, mercurial rhythmic counterpart to Mahal's lush, steel-bodied blues crawl. Meanwhile, the other musicians add delicate textures to the air's warm, acoustic interplay with an array of finger-picked harps, lutes, and the xylophone-like balafon. Mahal and Diabate take turns singing. The two musical cultures blend into a singular, slow, comfortable, folk lilt.

Kulanjan is a must for anyone seeking greater insight into the roots of the blues. Fans of folk, blues, and African music will find Kulanjan a fascinating and eye-opening look into the roots of those musical genres. It is great music to play while writing or working as it lifts the spirits of all who listen.

Cultures blended.......2002-10-24

This has wonderful blendings of blues and the African roots that birthed them. Both artists are so above excellent, and the listening goes from soulful to spirited to meditative. All of it is candy for the senses.

Music for being..........2002-09-08

There are not many albums one can live to. Do you know what i mean? One of those albums that you can put on some Sunday morning and let it guide your routine. "Kind of Blue" is one of those albums, and in my opinion so is "Kulanjan".

Diabate's "kora" fancifully blends with the rough textures of Taj Mahal's southern blues and whiskey flavored vocals on 'Ol' Georgie Buck' and one of my blues favorites 'Catfish Blues'. If you've never heard Diabate play before you'll be in for a treat with tracks like 'Atlanta Kaira', 'Mississippi-Mali Blues' and the title track 'Kulanjan', where he runs up and down his 21-string kora providing perfect accompaniment to Taj Mahal's steel acoustic guitar.

So, buy this album if you enjoy good music, for it is truly wonderful; a little trans-atlantic, Mississippi-Mali Blues from Athens, GA to you.

Nice blend of blues and African music.......2002-06-05

I wanted to love this cd, since I like Taj and love the concept. Although it has some high points, overall it fails to fulfill its promise.

The vocals are expressive, and several of the songs are strong. I like the reworking of Queen Bee, Catfish Blues and Georgie Buck. The songs tend to be very long and repetitive, though. Apparently when Taj Mahal and Toumani Diabate jammed, they had instant chemistry and laid down the tracks quickly. Must have felt good for them; not as good for the listener. To paraphrase Oscar Wilde - they could have played a shorter song, but didn't take the time.

This is worth owning for the strength of the concept and the high points. Like so much of Taj Mahal, it is uneven.

Average customer rating: exceptional, the best of the rough guide series Sene-Gambian Pop! Wow!

The Rough Guide to the Music of Senegal and Gambia Various Artists Manufacturer: World Music Network ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Senegal & Gambia | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Rough Guide to Music of Mali and Guinea Lonely Planet the Gambia & Senegal (Lonely Planet Gambia and Senegal) The Rough Guide to the Music of Nigeria and Ghana Rough Guide to Congolese Soukous Senegal (including Gambia) Map by ITMb ASIN: B00004YNCR Release Date: 2001-10-08

Tracks:

1. Jeuness Senegal - Cheikh L
2. Nguisstal - Assane Ndiaye
3. Loodo - Baaba Maal, Mansour Seck
4. Mouhamadou Bamba - Orchestra Baobab
5. Bitillo - Tata Dinding Jobarteh
6. Salimata - Ifang Bondi
7. Letter - Youssou N'Dour
8. Wango Arti - Baaba Maal
9. Kairaba Jabi - Dembo Konte, Kausu Kuyateh
10. Diamano Bifoula/Ha Ma Ti Wouna - Malang Mane
11. Taar Doucey - IsmaL
12. Aminatta - Mass Lowe
13. Yelayo - Mansour Seck

Customer Reviews:

exceptional, the best of the rough guide series.......2003-08-11

This CD knocked me out from the first note. After listening to it on the bus 400 times I actually bought the Lonely Planet Senegal & Gambia (sorry Rough Guide...). The music of this region is jazzy, smooth, soulful, and completely unique. Highly recommended.

Sene-Gambian Pop! Wow!.......2002-03-06

West Africa is famous for its great musicians. Indeed, many styles of music, such as the Blues, Jazz and Reggae, are believed to have their origins in the hereditary musician traditions of west Africa (particuarly the kingdom of Mali). Whether or not this is true, the music on this CD is particularly moving and beautiful. Another compilation in the Rough Guides series, this CD explores the musical traditions of the west African countries of Senegal and Gambia.
Several big names, such as Baaba Maal, Youssou N'Dour, Ismael Lo and Cheikh Lo, all appear on this CD, with excellent contributions from each. However, there is more to this music than the big names, already familar to the west. The songs "Kairaba Jabi" and "Nguisstal" are both excellent examples of Sene-Gambian music, and the number done by Orchestra Baobab is wonderfully lively. Over all, this CD is an excellent compilation of Sene-Gambian pop music, showcasing a variety of styles and artists. Go with it!

Average customer rating: All tracks are great but..... magic Minimalist composer NONPAREIL Great CD overall, but not his best work Overly accessible

Philip Glass : Orion Manufacturer: Orange Mountain Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Glass | Glass, Philip | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Philip Glass : Les Enfants Terribles Philip Glass : Symphony No. 8 Symphony No. 6, Plutonian Ode Philip Glass : The Voyage: An Opera in Three Acts Philip Glass: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 3 ASIN: B0009B835O Release Date: 2005-04-01

Tracks:

1. Australia
2. Interlude: Australia & China
3. China
4. Canada
5. Interlude: Canada & The Gambia
6. The Gambia
7. Brazil
8. Interlude: Brazil & India
9. India
10. Greece

Amazon.com

Orion was commissioned for the 2004 Athens Cultural Olympiad. Composer Philip Glass's desire was to create a "truly multi-cultural, international music work." Those familiar with Glass's music will have an idea about what to expect---minimalist motifs repeated over and over, subtly changing both rhythmically and harmonically. But this 90-minute work devotes each of its nine sections to a particular nation: one each to Brazil, Canada, Australia, India, China, The Gambia, and Greece and three in combination. Glass uses instruments indigenous to each country, giving the work a terrific array of colors and flavors. The dark gruntings of the didgeridoo are made even more effective when contrasted with the dainty Chinese pipa, a sort-of cross between the lute and mandolin; the sounds of Nova Scotian fiddler Ashley MacIsaac are sharp edged and folksy; and there is a duet for high wind instrument and sitar. The finale is a Greek song with all the instrumentalists chiming in. "Orion" seems somewhat formless---it's not a concerto or symphony---but its series of movements have great beauty and tonal diversity and keep the ear fascinated. Highly recommended. --Robert Levine

Album Description

Orion is a live recording of the ninety-minute work commissioned by Arts, Dance, and Music Productions which premiered in Athens on June 3, 2004 (with The Philip Glass Ensemble) as part of the Cultural Olympiad in Greece. The recording features Eleftheria Arvanitaki vocalist, Mark Atkins on didjerido, Wu Man on pipa, Gaurav Mazumdar performing a sitar work by Ravi Shakar, Ashley MacIsaac on fiddle, Foday Musa Suso on kora, and the Brazilian ensemble Uakti. The American Premiere on June 21, 2005, will be held at the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL.

Customer Reviews:

All tracks are great but............2006-12-08

All tracks on this cd are great but just wait 'till you hear " Brazil" . fantastic!!

magic.......2006-11-10

This two-discs set brings you all over the world. It gives you a taste of different cultures and also the feeling that we all are the same, on the small grain os sand that Earth is, as it appears from the sky.

Minimalist composer NONPAREIL.......2006-11-07

While I enjoy the work of many contemporary composers, Philip Glass is the only one I can think of who has yet to disappoint me. I have been entranced by every piece of his work that I have purchased and this one is no exception. It is not the technique that enchants as much as the soul and creative energy that emanates from each selection. There are other minimalist composers, but none that I have heard who can imbue their music with the sweeping, mesmerizing, heart embracing touch that is the hallmark of Glass's music. Orion is a feast for the mind and the spirit.

Great CD overall, but not his best work.......2006-07-28

Though I'm a huge fan of Glass, and love most of his work, I feel that there were portions taken directly from other songs. I know that he is a minimalist composer, but Brazil, on the album, sounds like he took an excerpt from Aguas de Amazonia and added a couple more repeats in there.

Yes, I feel harshly about a portion or two of the CD, but it is an overall enjoyable piece of music to listen to. Glass does do a wonderful job at portraying the places of the world that he inteds in the music. So, as I said: overall, very enjoyable, but not his best work.

Overly accessible.......2006-03-17

Just as the constellation Orion can be seen from both the northern and southern hemispheres, this collaborative work can appear within the aesthetic range of many musical continents. In widening the threshold; however, subtlety of contrast is lost. Celestial music need not sound like "space music" and , unfortunately, there are stretches of such stooping to popular tastes. Beautifully performed. Helpful liner notes. Brilliant juxtapositions--my favorite being "Canada", "Interlude: Canada & The Gambia", "The Gambia". How often do we get to have Ashley MacIsaac and Foday Musa Suso on the same album, much less playing in the same piece?

Average customer rating: Gorgeous Has its moments, but is easily surpassed elsewhere Jazz of the ancients Gorgeous music from Mali contemplative virtuosity

Djelika Toumani Diabaté Manufacturer: Hannibal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Hannibal Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Kaira New Ancient Strings Kulanjan In the Heart of the Moon Boulevard de l'Independance ASIN: B00000062F Release Date: 1995-09-05

Tracks:

1. Djelika
2. Mankoman Djan
3. Cheick Oumar Bah
4. Marielle
5. Kandjoura
6. Aminata Santoro
7. Tony Vander
8. Sankoun Djabi

Amazon.com

Malian kora virtuoso Toumani Diabate, a collaborator in the Songhai and Kulanjan projects as well as the New Ancient Strings album, might just be the best player in the world on his 21-string, harplike instrument. Here, accompanied by Keletigui Diabate on balafon (a kind of xylophone) and Basekou Kouyate on ngoni, he tackles original and traditional material in beautiful fashion. Notes fall in rippling cascades from his fingers, whether on the dainty court song "Marielle" or the title track. The speed and dexterity of his playing, and of his ideas, is staggering, and his complete command of the instrument and its possibilities makes this album a joy. The trio arrangements give plenty of time to all players, although center stage is undoubtedly Toumani. While blissfully African, this is a record that transcends geography and ascends to the sublime. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

Gorgeous.......2007-03-08

Mali is the source for a hell of a lot of great music and Toumani Diabate's is some of my favourite. It's just gorgeous: calm but complex, pleasant but not trite. Check the samples and if you like what you hear but wonder if the rest is as good, trust me, it is.

Has its moments, but is easily surpassed elsewhere.......2003-03-13

This is a hit-and-miss disc. I asked for and received it for Christmas several years ago and still have yet to fall in love with it. The problem being, at least in my opinion, is that in places it displays too much Western influence. At times it feels like some sort of smooth acoustic instrumental Afro-pop. Whereas fellow Malian musicians such as Ali Farka Toure and Oumou Sangare are able to incorporate a bit of Western influence into their music (such as song forms, etc..) and still sound deeply Malian, Toumani is less successful at this. Whereas Ali Farka Toure, Oumou Sangare, and Afel Bocoum's best work sounds as if it may have crawled up out of the sand of the Sahel, much of this disc sounds as if it were orchestrated in a sterile music studio.

That's not to say this disc is without merit though. Track #7 is excellent and there are other good moments scattered throughout, but overall I feel there are much better albums out there both in terms of kora albums and Malian albums. On the other hand, it's impossible to take anything away from stunning ngoni player, Basekou Kouyate, on this album. Toumani is indeed one of the best kora players on the planet but still I don't feel that he compares favorably to, say, Guinean master Djeli Moussa Diawara. Plus alot of the material here is like I said. Too smooth. But Basekou is excellent throughout. If only he had been consistently allowed to play on tunes as perfect as Tony Vander (track #7).

Jazz of the ancients.......2003-02-06

Yes, yes , yes, Toumani Diabate is an excellent kora player. But for me the reasons to listen to this album over and over again late at night as I write a new essay or story is the music's essentially jazzy nature -- still think jazz originated in America? Listen to this album. And then, of course, there is the extremely subtle vituosity of Keletigui Diabate on the balafon. The man is incredible! I saw him play with Habib Koite in Berkeley. Keletigui(say it real fast and you're probably almost pronouncing it right "KEH-LEH-ti-gwi") not only played incomparably excellent music on the balfon but also played a bit of violin (listen to him on Boubacar Traore's "Macire"). This album would not be nearly as good without his subtle skills on the balafon. Then, of course, there is a Kouyate playing the ngoni and Toumani on the kora...I could go on and on...

Gorgeous music from Mali.......2002-08-09

This album brings together three traditional Mali instruments; the kora (harp-lute), the balafon, a type of marimba or xylophone and the ngoni--a mandolin-like instrument with a flexible neck. The three virtuosi on this album are the kora master Toumani Diabate, Keletigui Diabete on balafon and Basekou Kouyate on the ngoni.

If you like "New Ancient Strings", something of a hit album in the World Music genre, you will be pleased with this offering. While the mix of instruments does not have the deep, hypnotic rocking style of the dual kora in "New Ancient Strings" the mix of the three traditional instruments is good to listen to. The music has a very traditional sound, yet is tuneful and completely accessible to any listener. The skirling harp riffs are shored up nicely by the "bones" of the balafon's wooden tonking, and the ngoni is fascinating--it's flexible neck produces half-tone notes like an ancient precursor of the bender or "whammy" bar on an electric guitar.

This music dates far, far back to the 13th Century kingdoms of Mali, and even before, when the kora was the hunter-harp. I wonder if King David's shepherd's harp didn't sound like the kora, and if the music to which the Psalms were sung sounded anything at all like this? We can only imagine about this, as music of the ancients is lost to us. But this sound is timeless, and I play my Toumani Diabate CD's over and over. They certainly speak to me and if the kora was the instrument David played to Saul, I can attest that it has tremendous powers to lighten the soul.

contemplative virtuosity.......2002-08-07

Folk-music based intrumentals from Mali. This disk works as both foreground and background music: the mood is contemplative but the playing is extraordinarily demanding - so the listener can either listen "hard" and be astonished by kora-player Toumani Diabate's virtuosity, or one can lay back and just let the music flow over you. The disk's production values are not the best, but it just adds to the air of authenticity of three skilled musicians interacting in the moment without the intermediation of studio trickery.

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