Rokia Traore

Bowmboi

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)

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #World

  • reviewed 03/2009

    Fula Flute
    Mansa America

  • reviewed 04/2006

    Stephin Merritt
    Showtunes

  • reviewed 10/2009

    FORRO IN THE DARK
    Light a Candle

  • reviewed 12/2010

    BUJU BANTON
    Before the Dawn

  • reviewed 05/2004

    Various Artists
    Bridge to Havana

  • reviewed 11/2016

    Her
    Tape #1

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.