Idrissa Soumaoro – Diré (Mieruba, 2023)
Idrissa Soumaoro’s new album, Diré, is named after the Malian town where he formed deep connections, especially with his late daughter. Notably, Diré highlights Soumaoro’s mastery as a composer, singer, guitarist, and kamale ngoni virtuoso.
Back in 1971, at 22, Idrissa’s career led him to Diré to teach music at lPEG (Pedagogical Institute of General Education) after completing his studies at Institut National des Arts in Bamako. Speaking of beginnings, the album’s opening track, “Diré taga,” echoes his emotions for the city, akin to a cherished friend. Meanwhile, the 333 Saints of Timbuktu region holds a special place in his heart. In these trying times in Mali, he reminisces about the 1970s Diré, offering a glimpse of hope.
Shifting gears, the album’s diverse linguistic landscape finds Idrissa’s resounding voice flowing seamlessly through French, Bambara, and English. His voice elegantly dances atop the rhythmic waves of West African strings and percussion, occasionally adorned with touches of flute and balafon. Unlike modern music, the keyboard used gracefully supports without overpowering.
Now, delving into the album’s history, it spans years and obstacles. Initiated in 2012, it was an unfinished symphony after the passing of its producer, Marc-Antoine ‘Marko’ Moreau. Furthermore, the pandemic further extended its creation. Climax Orchestra in France eventually lent its hand to crafting the arrangements and orchestrations. Finally, the independent label Mieruba will introduce Diré to the world.
Idrissa’s hope for peace is embedded in his work. Seamlessly, the memory of Diré fuels his desire for unity and happiness. Moreover, the album’s ten compositions, rooted in Malian traditions, also weave in influences from Idrissa’s experiences, education, and musical explorations. Transitioning from traditional instruments like the kamale ngoni to global rhythms like rumba and salsa, his unique musical expression emerges.
In Diréé, Idrissa Soumaoro’s artistic evolution paints a portrait of love, reassurance, fatherly wisdom, and optimism. Throughout the album’s tribulations and triumphs, his music remains a testament to the profound influence of culture and life’s journey.
Musicians: Idrissa Soumaoro on lead vocals, guitar, kamale ngoni; Amadou Bagayogo (Amadou et Mariam) on guitar; Yao Dembele on bass, keyboards, backing vocals; Yvo Abadi on drums, percussion; Bouramani Kouyate on guitar; Mahamoudou ‘Assaba’ Drame on jeli ngoni, ngoni ba; Cheick Diallo on flute; Soungallo Diarra on balafon, percussion; and Yacouba Sissoko on calabash.
Buy Diré.
Author: Douglas Sanders
