2004-11-23
Such brilliant harmonic and rhythmic stylings from this, Rokia Traore’s third release. Bowmboi turns Malian folk melodies and traditional instruments on its head with classical string arrangements from the likes of Kronos Quartet and modern lyricism. Traore, 30, is a daughter of a diplomat and spent her childhood moving about and as such, had difficulty forming lasting friendships. She turned to music, started her career in France, but later returned to her native Mali to polish her craft and sift some West African earth. (steLLa)Ken Wiley
Urban Horn Project
Jehro
Jehro
LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO
Ilembe - Honoring Shaka Zulu
AZAM ALI
Elysium for the Brave
Various Artists
Kalamazoo Community Rhythm Project
Rupa & The April Fishes
Extraordinary Rendition
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