"Malian music is arguably deeper, more sophisticated and lyrical than any other form of African music," reads the opening sentence of the accompanying 24-page booklet to Mr Bongo: The Original Sound of Mali. The 11-track compilation, expertly curated by Dave "Mr Bongo" Buttle, Vik Sophonie, and Florent Mazzoleni, surveys the rich musical tradition of the landlocked West African country, with a focus on recordings from '70s-'80s. During this period, the government of Mali, helmed by Moussa Traore, welcomed in "a more modern society" through the use of culture; musicians, orchestras, and dancers from across Mali came together in the capital city of Bamako every two years, and their creations were recorded and broadcasted throughout the nation, which lead to names like Rail Band, Super Djata Band, Sorry Bamba, and Idrissa Soumaoro Et L'Eclipse de L'lja leaving behind bodies of work that fuse "tradition, progression, raw expression, and sheer enthusiasm" with guitar licks, organs, hypnotic vocals, and robust horn sections. Check out "Mouodilo," Yayoroba," "Mandjou," Mali Ni Woula," "Nissodia (Joie de l'optimisme), and "Fama Allah."

• includes 24-page booklet
• gatefold sleeve
• 11 tracks in all
• music label: Mr Bongo 2017

reviewed by eneye 04/2017