Post Description

Network have assembled a brilliant cast of musicians to introduce non-African listeners to the power and diversity of sounds in the vast, northern zones of the continent. There is no ambient blur or incidental sounds one might anticipate from 'ethnic', unsophisticated field recordings. This double CD, in excess of 2 hours, rings clear, and what voices are showcased! Youssour n'Dour, Baaba Maal, & Ali Farka Toure are possibly familiar names to western listeners. I'm pressed to discern any flaws, but my enduring favourites are two chantreuses, Aster Aweke and Dimi Mint Abba, who are less well known away from the European club circuit.