Africa music reviews

This is one of the original JUJU music albums from one of the originators of this very Nigerian music genre. I.K dairo traversed the Juju music plains when it was not just enough to be a praise singer. He was a true musician. At the height of his musical career he was awarded the MBE by the Queen of England, who was simply enthralled by his mastery of the Accordion . Though this compilation is very good, it can hardly be said to be representative of a music career spanning over three decades.

Songs to watch out for are, "Salome", "okete","Ekun rere", "Ko wa jo". My personal best is "Mo sorire". This CD is a must buy at any rate. He has since departed from this realm to join the saints...may his soul rest in peace.

Virtuosity that energizes. Zrihan packs in so much enthusiasm,
I dare the listener not to feel joy.

Zrihan must be seen in concert to truly appreciate his talent and artistry. I like the more traditional stuff more than the newer poppier stuff.

This classic Guinean pop ensemble has one of the grooviest sounds I've heard, and for whatever reason, I find them completely enthralling. Part of it is the roughness and seeming incohesion of their sound -- there are several distinct elements that appear on the surface to be unlike each other -- the keening, shrill vocals; the gorgeous, perfect, echoey guitars; lastly, the driving, aggressive percussion, an unusual mix of indigenous drums and a lively snare set, all anchored by a swirly little organ. Camayenne Sofa seemed content to leave the rough edges in their music, and that suits me just fine. These guys were extremely talented performers who didn't succumb to the age-old temptation to "perfect" every little bit of their music, and thus these discs are more energetic and compelling than the vast majority of African pop albums you're likely to hear. Great stuff. Highly recommended!

True, generous, revolutionary ... he was and is the grea

I am familiar with Mor Thiam's artistry from his years with the National Ballet of Senegal and acquired this cd due to that association and was very pleasantly surprised. If you admire great flat out djembe playing you won't be disappointed with cuts like "Worosodon" and "Djembe" which are great new rhythms where the drums are "kickin'". The album is balanced with contemporary rhythms and melodies many in a cool jazz style but with a balance of traditional Senegalese influence.Mor Thiam has managed compose a selection of very contemporary pieces with very strong ties to his traditional roots. This is a must have cd.

Fantastic album by Abdullah Ibrahim, in special the two versions of "Ismhael". To listen always!

Hugh Masekela is a hero. Exiled from South Africa as a result of the authorities banning him way back(whole chunks of albums at government controlled radio stations were scratched off thereby preventing them from being played, plus more ridiculous and bizarre acts of repression)he travelled the USA and Europe, establishing himself as one of the greats in the jazz world.

This album is bang up to date (at the time of its release) with the then current social-political scene in SA without losing any of its musical appeal.

The best track has to be Polina, which I originally heard on the Dave Grusin album 'Migration' (check this out too!). This is pure Masekela Magic - it will haunt you forever...

I've seen the great man live, in Johannesburg at the legendary Kippies jazz venue, and also at Brighton University here in England. I feel honoured to be able to say that I've been in the same room as the man - but hey, don't write me off as a sycophant. Listen to Polina alone, and you'll be lining up for more.

Unknown to most in the USA, Abdoulaye Diabate is one of the foremost Bambara singers and composers. His band consists of outstanding West African musicians. If you like West African music, Abdoulaye Diabate and his band will rock your world! I like his CD "Djiriyo", a compilation of earlier releases, but "Bende" I believe is worthy of being considered essential to your collection of West African music.

Folks who enjoy listening to "Afropop Worldwide" will appreciate this CD. The 11 songs represent some of the best music from Zaire, South Africa, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Guinea, and Senegal. The CD is always near my player and never fails to lift my spirits whenever I start to play it.

khaled is the best singer in the world.