Search - Alpha Yaya Diallo :: Message

Right on the heels of his North American debut (a compilation entitled Aduna) comes the first fully produced new album from this Guinean guitarist and writer. Alpha Yaya Diallo has played for a number of the famous Mande bands, including a stint with Bembeya Jazz. This albums has its ups and downs, starting off in full-blown overproduction mode (blast those damn drum machines!) in a sound far too reminiscent of Youssou N'Dour, but after a few tracks it settles down and finds its roots. His use of acoustic guitar and kora pulls the best music out of his band, and the mix of technology with tradition makes for some worthy new music. The shining roots moment of the CD is "Kakande," a solo-overdubbed effort with acoustic guitar, percussion, balafon, and bass all played by Diallo on a flowing and beautiful piece of folk-inspired pop. On the pop side, the winner has to be "Fatumata Diallo," which shows (with real drums) that a Western pop feel can coexist with and thrive in the West African heritage. Open-minded fans of both Afro-pop (à la Salif Keita) and acoustic traditions will both find moments to cherish in Alpha Yaya Diallo's Message. --Louis Gibson