 Cheick Hamala DiabateAke Doni Doni (Take it Slow)
Grigri Discs, 2009
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Cheick Hamala Diabate is a Griot. A Griot is usually a singing storyteller who praises and tells stories about great personalities and heroic deeds in their communities. They also provide social commentary, serve to remind the community of their morals, obligations, values and also provide advice on the human existence. With his new disc, Cheick manages a simple balance of all these traits.
He captures some of this essence in the opening track Den Woulou Lalou as he talks about the noble and important cycle of life: the pain of birthing a child, the sacrifices it takes to raise one responsibly. It is set to a reggae bluesy rhythm featuring Corey Harris on vocals and slide guitar. Cheick was not afraid to incorporate various non traditional instruments such as the banjo which he has come to love and the creation of his cd. Other instruments include an accordion, a tabla (an Indian hand drum) and the organ.
Wanto Doke a traditional upbeat number rocks with guitars, kora, a funky horn section and a relentless percussive backdrop interspersed with distinctive tones of balafon gets you up and on your feet in no time, admonishes one to find and make their own paths regardless of the hand they have ben dealt.
Of course the praise songs include, ATT (Amadou Toumani Toure) a somber and reflective piece for the President of Mali, with its looping bass lines and lots of vocals; Oude Diallo for the family of Oude Diallo who live in France is brassy and smooth with all instruments kicking in at one point or other and to Dr. Ibrahim Fofana which features a lot of vocals and kora.
The cd has a nice mix of soothing, mellow and up-tempo danceable tracks. Traditional instruments dominate most of the tracks but other non-traditional ones are well represented. The arrangements and compositions are wonderfully warm and Chieck’s voice is rather soothing. There is something for everyone who loves or would like to dabble in world music especially Malian music.
The cd closes with Ake Doni Doni, which whilst cautioning one about the dangers of modern fast life will pull you to your first available dance partner…
 Brenda Fassie
African Classics
Sheer 2009
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Brenda Fassie was the embodiment of life. The was voice of the poor and downtrodden Africans. She was a petit lady with spunk. She took her Native South Africa by storm and went on to conquer the rest of Africa. She partied hard, loved hard and died young. Sheer Sound has compiled some of her great works on one cd and it is a must for old and new fans alike. Feel the power, energy, versatility and vocal range of songs. Whether she was singing a love ballad, a praise song, pop song or a traditionally jazzed up kwaito song, she always sang like it was her last. Most of the hits are here: Vul’indela – the dance classic that cemented her stature as Africa’s best; Amagents – a bass thumping booty shaking reggae tinged number; Sum’bulala would give Ladysmith Black Mambazo a run for their money; Ponci Ponci a praiseworthy love song that will have you craving Negro spirituals all day long and many, many, more. May she rest in peace! Rest in peace Ms. Mbrrrrrrrr!!!!
Fiona
More Than Words
VP Records, 2009
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It’s all about love for Fiona and her new offering. She offers silky smooth vocals, nice arrangements and lots of mushy stuff. From having a Crush, to We’ve Got a Good Thing Going and trying to Overcome What May, Fiona is looking to Break Up To Make UP amongst other things. From lover’s rock to rub-a dub, this is for all the lovers who may want to relax and rekindle or spice up their love lives. This is a good addition to any collection.
Monday Michuru
Nexus
(Artist Share, 2009)
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Very few artist have the ability to write, arrange, sing their own songs and make it seem effortless but Monday Michuru seems to have the formula for success. Over 14 albums strong! Not only can she do this with ease, she makes it sound oh so good! In her offering Nexus Monday blends various musical flavors that is sure to delight any musical taste buds. From smooth tracks like Candy and On & On to Jazzy tracks like Genetic Imprints, One and Sands of Time, this will soon become a classic in your collection. - Don the Black Puma
 Philippe Saisse
At World's Edge
(Koch Records, 2009)
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Attention Jazz Lovers! Philippe Saisse's, At World's Edge is one of the best Jazz CD's of 2009. Those who have been enjoying his music over the years you will not be disappointed. Those who are new to the musical stylings of Philippe are in for a wonderful musical treat. If the piano is your 'drug' of choice when it comes to Jazz you we pleased with this CD. Notable tracks on this project include Topanga Moon Dance, From Nowhere to Now Here, Through Tainted Glass and Assante Sana. - Don the Black Puma
 Africa Straight Ahead
Various Artists
(Heads Up, 2004)
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Africa Straight Ahead offers traditional Jazz from the Motherland.......Straight, no chaser. Artist featured on this project include the Sheer Allstars, Paul Hanmer, Moses Khumalo, Andy Narell, and Voice. Notable tracks include Owed to the Bishop by Marcus Wyatt, Beautiful Love by Zim Ngqawana, Tugela Rail by Daruis Brubeck and Afro Cool Concept but to be perfectly honest with you, every track on this compilation is solid. -Don the Black Puma
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