Afel Bocoum, Damon Albarn - Mali Music (CD 2002)

This is one of the most interesting records I have listened to in a long time. Each time I play this record I hear many different influences. Damon Albarn with the help of Afel Boucoum primarily, has created diverse sounds and it is amazing to hear how the Melodica has been integrated with Malian traditional rhythms. I travel in W Africa a great deal and Mali is now down on my list of places to visit soon! Highlight of particular note for me was the singing beside the pool from the female praise singer. Her voice was so powerful... the Oral tradition in W.Africa at it`s best. The track Bamako City was a revelation, just closing my eyes It felt as if I was there..
All in All a great collection of `Cross-over` quite experimental World Music at times. When musicians of any genre get together there is often a common ground and language. Proceeds from the sale of this record also go to Oxfam. Buy it ASAP!