Search - Amadou & Mariam :: Wati

The Magic Of Africa

mobby_uk | London United Kingdom | 11/09/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"From the traditional spiritual voices of Lady Blacksmith Mambaso, the funky Juju of King Sunny Ade, the harmonica flavoured Mbalax of Ismael Lo, the fado influenced melancholy of Cape Verde, the raw blues of Boubacar Traore,the smooth Jazz of Richard Bona,to the Rai of North Africa,the music of Africa is very diverse,rich and powerful.
Amadou and Mariam, are yet another fine example of two very talented and creative artists from Mali, who play a type of blues that is quite melodic and original.Wati is their latest release, and like all their previous work, it is a masterpiece. Their secret is in writing a sort of music that will captivate you from the very first tune, and will not let off until the very last note from the last track. The bluesy guitars enriched by the hammond, and the fine singing and brilliant backing vocals and arrangements will take you on a journey that very few modern musicians of any style or language will take you on. It is the MOOD that is so crucial in Amadou and Mariam's work.The melody and voices and playing are all blended into the listener's mind to put him/her in the right musical mood that will make the perfect listening experience. (the closest African band that put me in this similar mood was the underrated and hugely talented Ifang Bondi).
You should not hestitate in buying this record or any of Amadou and Mariam's work, for it is a great reflection of the richness,diversity,power,and magic of Africa."

A&M's 3rd soulful brillant dancable grooves!

marblexyz@hotmail.com | Bellevue, WA United States | 04/29/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A&M deliver the goods again. This CD is sytlistically similar to their previous 2 (us released) CDs. i.e., fabulous. Their wonderful arrangements are perfect accompanyment to their catchy songs. I hope I get to hear live someday."