Tree To Tree
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The inimitable vocalist Ashley Maher returns with an 8th album, where some of Dakar, Senegal’s finest musicians are in attendance for the global fusion ideas.
The appropriately titled “Music” opens the listen with no lack of grooves, where Maher’s expressive voice is met with colorful keys and dreamy winds, and “Salt And Pepper” follows with playful guitar and a charming rhythm that suits the gentle singing.
Landing in the middle, the drumming focused “Till The Day” uses ambience strategically amid the rich textures and scatting, while “Galon De Leche” offers a breezy moment that’s percussively strong and enlists frisky bass lines.
“Ever Given” and “Nenam” exit the listen. The former is a busy and meticulous album highlight that’s got a dance floor ready energy and hosts really lovely singing, and the latter offers a more bare setting of cultured singing, light melodies and infectious hand clapping.
You can tell a lot of work went into this record, and the use of sabar, tama, brass, and guest vocals from Aminata Doucouré only add to the appeal of a folk/jazz/world music hybrid that’s enlightening.
Travels well with: Maja Jaku- Blessed & Bewitched; Ravita Jazz- Alice Blue