I was first introduced to Amadou and Mariam on the sole premise that they sang (at least in part) in French, possibly a bit of a risky strategy for choosing music. However, 3 months on, countless listens in, and one fantastic live show later, it had proved to be one of my friends' best reccommendations.
As a fan of most types of popular music, what really appealed to me about Dimanche a Bamako was the variety of tunes and styles on offer, from reggae in "La réalité" to the dancey "Coulibaly". However, this is by no means an album without a sense of genre; this variation is united by their Malian roots, as well as Manu Chao's expert production, which is one of its qualities that have drawn many to this album. The sheer range of songs on offer means there is something for every occasion, but it can also just as easily be listened to as a single entity.
Some highlights M'Bife A slow introduction to the album, the texture gradually built up with the underlying ostinati into a seamless link into Balafon. (which, for me is the split-second moment on the album I wait for expectantly)
Coulibaly Various remixes of this song took the UK's club scene by storm earlier this year. And it's easy to see why. Celebratory vocals, stops to die for and possibly the most catchy bass line on the album.
La Realité A depiction of a live show in this song; remarkably accurate, full of fun, interaction and seeming improvisation. Chao's influence (police sirens and backing vocals) is the icing on the cake.
Sénégal Fast Food This was the song that persuaded me to buy the album. A compelling pop song, you're not satisfied until you've heard it enough to memorise every single word! Why can't all popular music be this catchy?
Fête au Village Slower, intimate duet where Amadou and Mariam's vocal lines seem to bounce off each others' in gloriously unpredictable imitation.
Beaux Dimanches Song about marriage, which couldn't sound musically more like such a celebration. Fantastic.
La Paix Anyone who has seen the Dimanche a Bamako documentary will remember the jamming over this song. It's really grown in my estimation having seen the film, as it's wonderful to see how their talents and Chao's influence fused to create this peice.
A lot of media hype has surrounded their appearances at Womad, this collaboration with Manu Chao, and their album's documentary of the same name, but don't let that detract from one of the best music albums of 2005.
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How does it compare to the artist's other releases
Good
How does it rate alongside the competition
Outstanding
Cover / Inlay Design and Content
Satisfactory
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