New Ancient Strings cover

New Ancient Strings

Toumani Diabaté · 1999

53 min · 8 tracks · blues · jazz · flamenco

A vibrant tapestry of kora melodies intertwined with rich rhythms and resonant harmonies reflecting Mali's deep musical heritage.

Why this album works

'New Ancient Strings' is significant for its blending of traditional Malian music with contemporary influences, earning critical acclaim and helping to elevate Diabaté's profile internationally. The album received praise from various publications, contributing to the growing popularity of world music genres during the late 1990s.
Best for
wave-like pacing with resolution vibrant textures for deep listening rich harmonies for reflective moments
Context
By the release of 'New Ancient Strings' in 1999, Toumani Diabaté was already a prominent figure in world music, following his acclaimed album 'Songhai' from 1994. This record marked a pivotal moment as it showcased his mastery of the kora and solidified his reputation as a leading ambassador of Malian music on the global stage.
Stylistic neighbors
Leonard Cohen· Tamikrest· Ry Cooder

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Bi Lambam Standout 5:00
  • 2 Salaman 6:14
  • 3 Kita Kaira 9:03
  • 4 Bafoulabe Standout 6:26
  • 5 Cheikhna Demba 4:30
  • 6 Kora Bali Standout 9:07
  • 7 Kadiatou 7:49
  • 8 Yamfa 5:11

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata