Various Artists - Think Global: West Africa Unwired

(World Music Network/ RGNET1169CD)

Think Global is the new label from World Music Network with the attractive strapline 'End Poverty, defend human rights and protect the environment!' - via a superb collections of cutting edge music from around the world.

In partnership with Amnesty International and Oxfam, all Think Global releases use only 100% recycled card with no plastic tray or plastic jewel case! But what's the music like?

From the sumptuous, sparkling koras (the West African harp) of Toumani Diabaté and Ballaké Sissoko to the acoustic guitar legends Baaba Maal and Mansour Seck, 'West Africa Unwired' presents some of the most beautiful classics from the acoustic West Africa repertoire.

Featuring bluesy sounds from Mali, Wodaabe music from the Sahelian savannah and Manding rhythms, this album features griots, musical giants and rising stars, who reveal the vitality of these timeless and exceptional songs.

'West Africa Unwired' is a rather laid back and grown-up collection hinting at West Africa's classical and folk-roots rather than the frenetic dance orientated beats many of the contributing artists are best known for.

This is the kind of CD that would make a great gift or starter for someone dipping their toes into the lighter side of West African music. A delight!

Artists include Baaba Maal & Mansour Seck, Diénéba Seck, Mory Kanté, Toumani Diabaté & Ballaké Sissoko, Nuru Kane, Kanté Manfila, Issa Bagayogo, Mah Damba, Daby Balde, Djeli Moussa Diawara & Bob Brozman, Grand Papa Diabaté & Sona Diabaté, Etran Finatawa and Boubacar Traoré.

Reviewer : Yve Ngoo

Toub by Nuru Kane (clip)