| I don't get to acquire or even hear enough of the CDs released in a year to make any definitive opinion of the year's 'best', however of those I am familiar with, these are my picks:
My Top Three
Nashville – Solomon Burke
Forty-five years on, that voice is just getting better, the soul even more soulful.
Savane – Ali Farka Touré
The final album by one of Africa's greatest musicians might just be his best ever.
Boulevard de l'Indépendance – Toumani Diabate & The Symmetric Orchestra
The world's greatest kora player, with 53 different musicians produces a stunning, rich and unique album. One of my favourite African albums in years.
Others
Lamp Fall – Cheikh Lo
The Senegalese guitarist/singer adds Brazillian sounds (parts were recorded in Brazil with Carlinhos Brown).
You Don't Know Me: The Songs of Cindy Walker – Willie Nelson
The album shows Nelson's voice and song intepretation skills at their best in a tribute to one of Texas' great songwriters.
African Guitar Summit II – African Guitar Summit
Even better than the first.
Diwan 2 – Rachid Taha
For Taha, this one is a little lighter on the rock, a little heavier on the traditional sounds, with just the same energy.
Mish Maoul – Natacha Atlas
A rootsy return to her Arabic roots
Golden Afrique, Vol. 3 – Compilation
The Network label is producing one of the greatest series of African re-release compilations. This one showcases the 'golden age' from South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Full of glorious treasures, including the original (1939) "Mbube" which eventually was reborn as "Wimoweh".
CD Releases
Some great recordings, showcased by great live peformances for the release parties. A couple of these CDs were available in 2005. Chronologically:
Rhythm Was Born – Donné Roberts (Harbourfront, Feb. 11)
The album showcases his wide-ranging musical skills; his live performances keep getting better.
> go to report
Walasa – Chasaya Sichilima (NOW Lounge, May 19)
The Zambian-born performer brings great warmth and energy to his music (there sure was a lot at the release!)
Mti Wa Maisha (Tree of Life) – Adam Solomon & Tikisa (Lula Lounge, May 4)
"The Professor" and his new version of Tikisa, sounding better than ever, had Lula Lounge hopping. That fiesta-style guitar is gorgeous.
> go to report
Ba Ba Oh – Njacko Backo & Kalimba Kalimba (Gladstone Hotel, Jun. 16)
Njacko has added a Cuban feel to his music. The ballroom at the Gladstone was jammed, jumping and sweating.
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