Vieux Farka Toure

IMPORT. Vieux Farka Toure's self-titled debut album was recorded in Bamako, Mali, at Studio Bogalan and produced under the direction of Eric Herman and the guidance of Toumani Diabaté, along with award-winning engineer Yves Wernert. Graced by guest turns from Toumani Diabate (on 'Toure De Niafunke' and 'Diabate') and Ali Farka Toure (on 'Tabara' and 'Diallo'), the line-up also features other veteran players such as Bassekou Kouyate), Seckou Toure, and Hassey Sarre. Younger stars sit in as well, including Mamadou Kone, Adama Diarra, and Issa Bamba, whose powerful yet agile voice has often been compared to that of Salif Keita.

Like his father before him, Vieux seems to envision each tune in overview while eschewing virtuosity for its own sake, inexorably constructing one cumulative yet fiery, melodic trajectory after another. The term 'African blues' is only partly accurate, although the parallel Malian and American tributaries almost certainly sprang from a common source. But whether originating from near or far, depending on where the listener stands, the two traditions share a dusty, sun-struck, languid elegance that remains profoundly redolent of the Motherland. Thus, adventurous fans of celebrated Mississippi Delta stylists like John Lee Hooker will find themselves transported, too.