| Some of e-liz's Favourite
Tracks (yes favourites ok – amongst many, many others. As it was really difficult to choose I opted in the main for dancefloor winners or for those tracks which make people ask “… what was that?”). Boujie Ya Motema, by Docteur Nico
& Empompo Deyesse (from Derniere Memoire – Voix d’Afrique);
an everlasting tune in the best tradition of fluid and impeccably rhythmed
congolese guitar dance classics.
Aicha, a track that will melt the most unromantic of hearts: play it and watch that dreamy look come into people’s face… I recommend the following versions: for the more original Algerian flavour refer to Khaled in Sahra (Barclay), or a live version by Khaled & Faudel in 1,2, 3 Soleils. Otherwise turn to more uptempo afro-salsa reinterpretation by Africando in Baloba! (Stern’s). Umenthisi, by Busi Mhlongo & Twasa (from Babhemu – Stern’s); compelling track propelled by the powerful, caressing, willful voice of the incredible South African lady. Includes an element of that far-away longing so typical of the music of this land… Do Your Best, by Femi Kuti,
featuring Mos Def (from Fight to Win – Wrasse Records). Unstoppable
dance track from the Kuti scion. I cannot tire of the sax solo… and wise
words african style to boot.
No Sant, by Wasis Diop, featuring Lena Fiagbe (from No Sant – Mercury France). The Senegalese smooth operator and his singing partner propose the ultimate in crossover Paris-tinged cosmopolitan elegance. Catchy, but not cheap, and still the strong roots remain in both music and lyrics. Ndangariro, by Stella Chiweshe (from Talking Mbira – Piranha). Magic from Southern Africa: the real thing from the Mbira Queen of Zimbabwe. Highly mesmeric, in the best local tradition – just look at the stars, become absorbed in the rhythm and feel the mystery. Tsikaholy, by Regis Gizavo
(from Mikea – Indigo / Label Bleu). I normally do not like accordions
much but I had to succumb to this. Choosing just the one track from the bounty
of Madagascan music was really difficult. You may want to check out also
the amazing Njava siblings and D’Gary’s guitar…
Slavery Days, by Burning Spear (from Chant Down Babylon – Island Jamaica; also featured in the World Music Network’s Reggae Selection). Is any comment needed to describe this Jamaican classic? Just the thing: basic and essential. Spirit Voices, by Paul Simon, featuring Vincent Nguini, Bakithi Kumalo, and many more besides (from Rhythm of the Saints – Warner Bros. Records). Rhythm is Paul Simon’s perfect and rather crystalline synthesis of anglo-saxon, african, south american (and what else?) inputs… and plenty poetry, of course! Oka or Yalala, by Tama (from Espace – Real World) – just to say the first two tracks as there’s plenty more good and diverse ones in this neat UK / Mali / Guinea Bissau crossover melting pot. Check the first one to hear just one of the many west african responses to caribbean callings; check the second for those precious, earthy and sublime Malian tones and female vocals. |
| Nick |
| Innocent |
| Catherine |
| Elizabeth |
| Rumba John |