Gagner L`Argent Francais by Mamani Keita

Lisnaholic · 10-21-2011, 07:38 PM

This is a discussion thread for the following album:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ashbery

Mamani Keita - Gagner l'argent français (Working for French Money), 2011

Mamani Keita's 3rd solo album is another extension of her expert fusion sensibilities. On Gagner l'argent français, she mixes traditional Malian folk music with western rock, funk, and electronic styles. Each of the 10 songs has an undeniably unique personality, granted in no small part by Keita's own vocal style. While she sticks closely to the traditional west-African chanting that's common in her culture, she also augments it at times to fit the eclectic blend of sounds that she fronts on this album.

Perhaps most importantly, Gagner l'argent français is an album that celebrates diversity. I have not found an official lineup for the album, though the sheer number of instruments from different cultures that can be heard throughout is a testament to this. Though it covers a lot of ground, the heart of this music comes from Africa and is an expression of Malian culture. Fun fact: Since Mamani Keita is Malian royalty, the caste system in her country technically forbids her from making music. She is the sister of the "golden voice of Africa," Salif Keita, who broke this taboo many years ago, and she naturally followed suit. I like the think the world is better off for it.

Thi album won a recent selection poll of http://www.musicbanter.com/country-f...lbum-club.html - but of course everyone is welcome to join in the debate.

So, anyone have an opinion they want to share ?

Stephen · 10-25-2011, 06:24 PM

Though I enjoyed this album I don't think I have much to say on it. As mentioned in Ashbery's notes it is a nice blend of musical styles. Overall an upbeat listen and a welcome addition to my library.

Lisnaholic · 10-28-2011, 08:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fazstp

Though I enjoyed this album I don't think I have much to say on it. As mentioned in Ashbery's notes it is a nice blend of musical styles. Overall an upbeat listen and a welcome addition to my library.

Ha ha ! I was going to describe the album as uplifting, but your word is just as good, fazstp. So, we`re agreed; it`s a pretty cheerful album, which is one of the great things about African music - it can be cheerful without being cheesy.
I enjoyed the album too, especially the beautiful kora you can hear on some tracks, and also the unmistakable tone and playing-style of the African electric guitar. Without doubt, I`ll be playing this album again, but even with Mamani`s great voice this album, for me, doesn`t stand out as particularly exceptional, so I`m just voting "Good".

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10-25-2011, 06:24 PM	#2 (permalink)
Stephen I sleep in your hat Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Melbourne, Vic. Aus. Posts: 1,847	Though I enjoyed this album I don't think I have much to say on it. As mentioned in Ashbery's notes it is a nice blend of musical styles. Overall an upbeat listen and a welcome addition to my library.