Ilana: The Creator

 Mdou Moctar’s Ilana (The Creator) is a deeply political album that explores the present day implications of colonialism, particularly the exploitation of Niger’s resources. You don’t have to understand the Tamashek lyrics to feel the tenacity and strength with which Tuareg people have been resisting oppression for decades. It’s Moctar’s scorching guitar solos and urgent rhythms that convey this deep seated frustration, but always with a sense of pride and power — just listen to the mind-blowing solo on “Tarhatazed,” which seems to create an ever ascending vortex that leaves you suspended in its wake.