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)Charanga Cakewalk
Loteria de la Cumbia Lounge
OZOMATLI
Don’t Mess with the Dragon
Pauline Scanlon
Red Colour Sun
Cibelle
The Shine of Dried Electric Leaves
Soweto Gospel Choir
Voices from Heaven
YOUSSOU N'DOUR
Rokka Mi Rokka (Give and Take)
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.