Couleur
Cumbancha, 2021
10/10
The Grammy winning artist Dobet Gnahoré returns with a 6th album recorded in Africa during the pandemic, where she celebrates local talent, women’s rights, and qualities like creativity and positivity, which have been very much needed during these troubling times.
“Désert’ starts the listen with a mesmerizing guitar line as Gnahoré’s fascinating and soothing vocals guide the cultured rhythm and warm melody, and “Léve-toi” follows with playful drumming and soaring vocal acrobatics as the beat driven track unfolds with both playfulness and exploration that welcomes Yabongo Lova.
Near to the middle, “Rédemption” pairs Gnahoré’s expressive pipes with pretty guitar playing that traces back to her singer-songwriter roots, while “Wazil” is a percussively strong and dynamically flowing album highlight that will certainly get your body moving to the frisky climate. “Vis Ta Vie” then heads straight to the dance floor with its French sung, pop friendly atmosphere.
Landing near the end, “Ma Maison” offers a cozy and upbeat display of world music ideas and smooth grooves that are just so charming they’ll appeal to you no matter where you reside on the globe, and “Mi Pradjó” exits the listen with an uncontainable energy that showcases Gnahoré’s incredible range alongside stylish backing vocals and a lively pulse.
Certainly more Afro-pop oriented than her previous work, Gnahoré offers a powerful, optimistic and colorful peek into some of the most exceptional talent alive today, where electronica, hooks, and mature, very eloquent songwriting shines from beginning to end.
Travels well with: Sarazino- Mama Funny Day; Lakou Mizik- HaitiaNola