Ali & Toumani cover
Released

This magnificent album is deeply rooted in the musical traditions of Mali, but it’s the delicate, deceptively effortless interplay between Malian guitarist Ali Farka Touré and master kora player Toumani Diabaté that makes it a truly transcendental listen, speaking to the deep friendship and creative connection between the two. With subtle rhythm supplied by Buena Vista Social Club bassist Orlando “Cachaito” López and Farka Touré’s son Vieux on Congas, the two Malian greats trade phrases across 11 languid, bluesy tracks. Sadly, this  is the last recording of both Farka Touré and López: a fittingly tender, poignant celebration of life.

Megan Iacobini de Fazio

Recommended by

Suggestions
Mon Pays cover

Mon Pays

Vieux Farka Touré
Tassili cover

Tassili

Tinariwen
The Lost Album cover

The Lost Album

Kante Manfila, Salif Keita
The Visitor cover

The Visitor

Jim O'Rourke
River cover

River

Daniel Bachman
Sun Awakens cover

Sun Awakens

Six Organs of Admittance
Alafia cover

Alafia

Sidi Touré
Beautiful Africa cover

Beautiful Africa

Rokia Traoré
Waters in Azure cover

Waters in Azure

Steffen Basho-Junghans