Adouna
Cumbancha, 2026
9/10
The Senegalese singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Cheikh Ibra Fam is back with a personal effort, where knowledge, faith, unity, migration and love are packed into plenty of worldly flavor.
The animated mood of “Gnou Mbollo” opens with flowing vocals, crisp drumming and rhythmic guitars that make an instant impression, and “Amoul Solo” follows with rich horns and playful winds that radiate plenty of culture and grace.
Halfway through, “Shabida” blends and pop and soul ideas into the thoughtful climate, while “Sali” carries an infectious energy that invites singing-along- even if it’s not in your native tongue.
“Mama” and “Wakhtane” exit the listen. The former leads with tribal drumming before frisky pop gestures enter, and the later showcases Fam’s expressive pipes amid the colorful dynamics.
A truly global record that was recorded in multiple countries and utilizes Afro-pop, soul, and the traditional languages of West Africa, there’s a very contemporary appeal as well, where lyrical intimacy, grooves, rhythm and melodies are never in short supply.