by Samba Toure
Samba Touré Gandadiko (PBS Feature Record)
It is said that you have to live the blues to truly play the blues. Given what we know about Mali and other parts of Central and Western Africa it’s no surprise that Gandadiko is one of the best blues albums of recent years.
Gandadiko is the latest release from Mali guitarist/singer Samba Touré. Like his previous album ‘Albala’ this record draws its lyrical content and musical gravitas from troubles few of us in the western world could possibly contemplate. Where Albala referenced conflicts and circumstances imposed by human constructs such as religion, culture and politics, this new album brings African blues driven by the further devastation of prolonged drought. In Samba’s native Songhai language the album’s title translates as “Land of Drought” or “Burning Land.”
Despite the stark subject matter this is by no means a depressing, or difficult album. Touré’s blues have a swagger that drives each track relentlessly forward and ultimately make this record one that you’ll probably turn up loud and stomp your feet to. Poignant, intimate and compelling, Gandadiko is a truly satisfying experience.
Dan Deacon Gliss Riffer (Featured on The Breakfast Spread)
Listening to Dan Deacon’s Gliss Riffer is like a sonic translation of how I imagine a tour of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory to be. Colour, light and unexpected sounds somehow explode out of this album and assault all your senses at the same time. On first listen it felt hectic to me but after settling into it I realised it was a stroke of genius. It’s not hectic at all; it’s organised chaos! Listening to this album in a private space with decent headphones creates yet another experience with all kinds of electronic sounds bouncing from one ear to the other. My favourite tracks are ‘Meme Generator’, ‘Learning to Relax’ and ‘Take It To the Max.’ If you’re a fan of Zammuto’s debut solo album Anchor, I think this will push your buttons.
By Cat – The Breakfast Spread
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