CD reviews: Songhoy Blues

Forced to take refuge in Mali's southern capital Bamako to escape jihadist-driven unrest in their northern hometown of Gao in 2012, Oumar, Aliou and Garba Toure (no relation) redoubled their efforts to translate traditional Malian grooves into a guitar-driven modern sound that also acknowledged the influences of American blues and R&B.

The young band soon earned international recognition and the chance to make this album with the Yeah Yeah Yeah's Nick Zinner.

The result is a spirited, nimble and faultlessly executed celebration of the freedom that is denied many of their compatriots.

• Songhoy Blues. Music In Exile. Transgressive Records.  

Four stars (out of five)

Single download: Soubour
For those who like: Tinariwen, Ali Farka Toure, Baba Salah

- Jeff Harford

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