Bab L’ Bluz KEXP Session
During their North American tour in July 2024, Bab L' Bluz visited the studios of KEXP in Seattle to...
Fri, 25 October 24
Fanga
Released 27 April 2023
- Fanga
Liner notes
In this companion single to the 2022 album BAMANAN, Rokia draws on the wisdom of Mali’s griots to share the message that every life on earth has a purpose and a destiny. From the great elephant to the tiny ant, each has their own strength and power, or ‘fanga’. The song invites us to step forward and face our destiny. Jacknife Lee adds to Rokia’s striking, dramatic vocals a sparse backing with upright piano and haunting electronics, creating a captivating and timeless sound.
The accompanying video for ‘Fanga’ is a beautiful visual duet between Rokia, filmed on the west coast of Africa, and contemporary dance artist Moses Ward, filmed in England. Directed by Zambian choreographer Kennedy Junior Muntanga, the video explores a young man’s journey towards acceptance of his destiny, guided by the voice of his ancestors.
Further Listening
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Released 18 February 2022
It’s a voice that soars — pure, clear and true — above bass and synths, traditional percussion and infectious Mande guitar grooves. A stop-you-in-your-tracks voice instantly familiar to anyone in Mali, West Africa: Rokia Koné, a.k.a the Rose of Bamako. On her debut album, she teams up with California-based rock producer Jacknife Lee to reimagine the Malian sound in ways both leftfield and beautiful. -
Released 24 January 2020
A creative force that embraces international voices; sweet, strong harmonies that summon the rights of women and girls; a meltdown of heritage and new gen talent… Les Amazones d’Afrique are back with Amazones Power, the sequel to their widely acclaimed 2017 debut album, République Amazone.
Further reading
Rokia Koné shares new remix of ‘Shezita’ and announces UK tour
Rokia will perform 5 dates this October in the UK with Salif Koné and Yahael Camara Onono.
Tue, 24 September 24
Exploring Colombian artist Savan’s music inspired by Yagé medicine ceremonies
The new Real World X release is an eight-track aural journey to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Fri, 29 March 24
Track of the day: ‘AmmA’ by Bab L’ Bluz
'AmmA' draws on music from north-east Morocco and influences from Tunisia and Algeria.
Fri, 08 March 24