Friday, November 26, 2010

CD Review: 4-CD SET - Free Africa


Various Artists
Free Africa [4 CD]

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of freedom for many African countries, Maquis Music released a four-disc set of popular music from all-around Africa. Some of the countries represented include Mali, Togo, Congo, Guinea, Ivory Coast, South Africa, Nigeria, Cameroon Benin, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Angola, Cape Verde, and Ethiopia. Some of the artists include Djelimady Tounkara, Mahmoud Ahmed, Alpha Blondy, Ismael Lo, Bassekou Kouyate, Amadou & Mariam, Salif Keita, Manu Dibango, Orchestra Baobab, Cesaria Evora, and many more. Music originating from the 1960's to the present is included. Many styles of music are represented, including, highlife, afro-beat, jazz, saharan, blues, folk, roots, and afro-latin. Of course, it is possible to include every, or even some, of the African musicians from these regions in one album set. However, the folks at Maquis Music succeed in presenting a well-rounded collection of African music from established and lesser-known artists. ~ Matthew Forss

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