Issa Bagayogo: Mali Koura CD

Malian singer Issa Bagayogo is an artist that straddles the line between contemporary and indigenous music from his homeland. His earthy, vivacious rhythms certainly call to mind the classic sounds of Mali, as does his characteristic deep, rich cocoa voice. Yet, the artist is not afraid to add a little modern groove to the mix, including elements of jazz, blues and electronica. MALI KOURA finds the artist working alongside French producer Yves Wernert, a frequent collaborator, who is skilled at infusing Bagayogo's music with a funky edge. Songs like "Filaw," "Dibi" and "M'Ba Fodi" are three examples of songs that sufficiently capture the soul of Issa Bagayogo pairing his vocals with acoustic sounding lute, jazzy horns, a touch of piano, guitar from Mama Sissoko and percolating percussion. Tracks: 1. Sebero 2. Filaw 3. Poye 4. Tcheni Tchemakan 5. Dibi 6. Dunu Kan 7. N'Tana 8. Ahe Sira bila 9. Namadjidja 10. Fimani 11. M'Ba Fodi