Djourou

Album review

This album is a splendid bouquet of strings (Djourou in bambara) composed by Ballaké Sissoko. The kora of this Malian master (Demba Kunda) welcomes and joins with the kora of the Gambian Sona Jobarteh, who also offers her silky voice on the title track. The other instruments that dance with the African harp are the virtuoso cello of his accomplice Vincent Segal, accompanied by Patrick Messina's clarinet, for an improvisation around Hector Berlioz's Jeu sur la symphonie fantastique. Prestigious vocal chords also join the party. The choice of guests is eclectic and tasteful. His compatriot Salif Keita sings like a nightingale on Guelen. Oxmo Puccino pays tribute to his Mandingo roots with his poetic flow on Frotter les mains. Camille brings her magical fever to Kora. Piers Faccini infuses his tender melancholy on Kadidja, which he performs brilliantly in Bambara. The set is completed by a second solo by Ballaké, Mandé Tabolo, situated between the duet with Camille and the other with Oxmo. It all concludes with an unexpected meeting with the Parisians of Feu! Chatterton (Un vêtement pour la lune). The luxurious cast underlines above all the inventiveness and boundless inspiration of Ballaké Sissoko, this immense musician. © Benjamin MiNiMuM/Qobuz