Sheena Easton Album: “Ambiances du Sahara: Dese”

Network have assembled a brilliant cast of musicians to introduce non-African listeners to the power & diversity of sounds in the vast, northern zones of the continent. There is no ambient blur or incidental sounds one might anticipate from 'ethnic', unsophisticated field recordings. The 'blues' moniker is probably more a marketing decision, albeit the neatly slotted inclusions of Taj Mahal & Ry Cooder, household names to affiacandos. This double CD, in excess of 2 hours, rings clear, and what voices are showcased! Youssour n'Dour, Baaba Maal, & Ali Farka Toure are possibly familiar names to western listeners. I'm pressed to discern any flaws, but my enduring favourites are two chantreuses, Aster Aweke & Dimi Mint Abba, who are less well known away from the European club circuit. Their vocals are truly extraordinary & will lead you to pursue their other work. Aster's contribution is from an early recording and fans should be aware that her subsequent recordings have a more westernised, disco/jazz setting; somewhat of a diminishment for my ears.

I was in Egypt and thought I had discovered a CD which wasn't available normally. So I was surprised to see it's listed here. I've listened to this album a thousand times and can sing N'Dour's "Sama Guent Gun" almost by heart (though I don't understand what it means).

You're depriving yourself of a true musical wonder if you pass up this one.

loved the entire album. unusual music, but very addictive and intriguing. "sama guent guii" - by Youssou N' Dour is my favorite and makes me cry. its beautiful.