Griot Classique (2014)
Griot Classique, the latest album by kora maestro Mamadou Diabate is an independent production. The Grammy-award winner recorded Griot Classique in Durham, North Carolina, where he currently resides.
Jelis (also known as griots) have a tradition of praise songs, honoring ancestors and important figures. Mamadou follows this tradition by dedicating this album to his father, Djelimory N’Fa Diabate, and Nelson Mandela.
The pieces on Griot Classique are primarily new compositions by Mamadou s featuring solely the beautiful sound of the kora, an instrument that mesmerizes the listener easily. Mamadou also plays classics such as ‘Nashcouma,’ a song of greeting played for dignitaries.
Mamadou Diabate’s technique is flawless, combining lovely structured melodies with rhythmic playing and moments of dazzling improvisation displaying admirable virtuosity.
With Griot Classique, Mamadou Diabate demonstrates that he is one of the finest performers of kora music.
Buy Griot Classique
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
