Dindin
Cumbancha, 2023
9/10
The inimitable artist Kimi Djabaté turns the trauma of his childhood into songs of love, joy and activism here, and his jazz, rock, funk and Afrobeat influences are certainly present and appreciated across the 11 worldly tracks.
“Afonhe” starts the listen with plenty of funk flavor, as rhythmic gestures and soulful singing are present, and “Yensoro” follows with fluid guitar work and warm accordion that make for a dreamy climate.
Approaching the middle, “Alidonke” recruits electric guitar and a firm beat for a rock meets blues swagger that benefits from Paulo Borges’ agile keys, while the title track welcomes soothing and cozy folk influences that flow with grace and playfulness and are never short on strong percussion thanks to Marcos Alves.
Close to the end, “Mbembalu” uses mesmerizing percussive and drumming patterns amid the expressive singing and Mbye Ebrima’s strategic kora for the album’s best, and “Djugu Djugu” exits with the acoustic guitar fueled beauty that’s guided by Djabaté’s friendly pipes.
An intimate affair that is dedicated to his friends and family, Djabaté’s music is highly genuine, globally embraceable, and touches on the human spirit in universal ways.
Travels well with: Wesli- Tradisyon; Sarazino- Mama Funny Day