The adventures of the 21-stringed Mande harp the
kora continue with this maverick set of collaborations from Malian maestro Ballaké Sissoko. Just as his friend, neighbor and kora collaborator Toumani Diabate is releasing a grandiose project in performance with the London Symphony Orchestra, Ballaké takes a more intimate approach, working in small settings with a diverse set of artists outside his tradition, as well as two veterans of Mande music. There are no hurricane griot vocals or pop arrangements here, rather the whispers and coos of French singer Camille, and Salif Keita at his most serene; also spoken word from Malian rapper Oxmo Puccino and poet Arthur Teboul. London-born singer/songwriter Piers Faccini accompanies on guitar on a mournful rendition of “Kadidja,” singing in a sweet, vulnerable tenor.