I Speak Fula

Kouyate is a Malian composer and plays the ngoni (a lute-like instrument, ancestor of the banjo). His band, Ngoni Ba features four ngonis (all played by family members) plus vocals. To call the playing virtuoso is an understatement. Highly recommended to anyone who likes stringed instruments, African music, or world music in general. Guest stars add extra interest. Seriously, wonderfully good.

1. Fast and fiery w/great rhythm & vocals. Outstanding picking!
2. Mid/upbeat layers of strings. Light but also complex.
3. Trills open a driving tour-de-force of Afro-funk-rock.
4. Midtempo, head-nodding, catchy w/sweet vocals.
5. Slow, rich vocals, wicked good e-guitar. Serious Afro blues.
6. Mid/uptempo, sweet strings and soaring vocals. Damn!
7. Upbeat and driving w/great guitar & wicked good strings.
8. Fast and complex, another great showcase for picking.
9. Relaxed and warm, great female vocals.
10. Lazy and warm w/a gentle, sweet air.
11. Bluesy strings, downtempo and strong. Ends at 5:02
Hidden track at 5:34: Plinky, raw vocals, slow. Yowzers.