Ali Farka Toure – Voyageur (World Circuit 2023)
The album Voyageur is a remarkable collection of recordings previously unreleased by the legendary musician from Mali, Ali Farka Touré, after his passing. The album, meticulously overseen by Nick Gold and the team at World Circuit, is an audiophile-quality vinyl that expertly showcases Ali’s vast talent. No second takes on Voyageur as there were no second takes on Ali’s incredible career. The album exhibits the exceptional work of a legendary artist who pioneered the Malian genre of Desert Blues. The songs are unequivocally unique.
Nick Gold and Vieux Farka Touré, Ali’s son, produced Voyageur. This collection features collaborations with accomplished musicians such as Malian vocalist Oumou Sangaré, Pee Wee Ellis, Afel Bocoum, Hama Sankaré, and Vieux Farka Touré. Each track on the album is a masterpiece, displaying acoustic and electric versions of Ali’s previously unreleased songs. In particular, the three songs featuring Oumou Sangaré’s vocals are outstanding and add a unique Wassulu style to the album.
Although Voyageur was not curated for a specific project, each song on the album blends seamlessly with the others. Voyageur takes listeners on a musical journey that transcends various moods and creates a captivating emotional experience. From the lively cuts like “Safari” and “Kenouna” to the sensual “Malahani” and the ardent closer “Kombo Galia”, Voyageur is as complete and wondrous an album as anything Ali Farka Touré put out during his lifetime.
Furthermore, Vieux Farka Touré’s collaboration with Khruangbin on last year’s Ali and his continued efforts to present his father’s rich archives prove he is carrying his father’s torch. Decades after its initial tracks were laid down, Voyageur reveals the exceptional talent and lasting legacy of Ali Farka Touré. This collection is a genuine tribute to one of the most gifted musicians of our time, featuring a remarkable compilation of Ali’s works.
Buy Voyageur.
Author: Ian Bevington
