Music in Exile

puntos extras por ser otro idioma que no sea inglés

Great. Favorite tracks: - Petit Metier - Mali

some good songs, but wouldn't listen to it again

на любителя, мне не оч зашло. местами напомнило кинг гизард

Just flat out excellent blues rock that transcends cultural barriers.

Mais um breve contato com o desert blues. Sempre interessante como esses artistas mesclam elementos já estabelecidos da música ocidental com melodias, escalas e padrões rítmicos distintos, trazendo um ar de novidade. Acho que não é o melhor disco que já ouvi dessa glr, mas foi sem dúvidas um baita disco.

There are some vibes on here, Petit Metier was a standout for me. Cool story behind the group.

Better than I expected, some decent tunes on this. A bit front loaded though.

Quite good

Surprising. Won't listen to again any time soon, but stoked these Mali boys escaped the Mali civil war and wrote a blues/rock album.

Unique blues sound, well executed.

Not bad but I'm a language I don't know.

A bit of a random choice, but a welcome inclusion to add bit more variety to the musical genres presented in this list. It is a nice little record, although I'm sure there must be some better representatives of this kind of music out there. I don't think this is Tishoumaren like other people are saying, because if it was, why not choose Tinariwen instead, arguably the most famous artist of the genre. This is probably some other kind of african music.

I liked the music, even if the words meant nothing to me.

I enjoyed the first few songs quite a lot! IMO it trailed out a little towards the end, but still an enjoyable listen

Pretty good as background music.

A blending of western and African; good background music, but nothing I would seek out.

I have never met an African album I didn't like, and this is no exception. Fantastic guitar work and mesmerizing layers of rhythm. I'll definitely listen to this again. I just wish I had a translation. Sad to hear about the suffering in Mali, but this is a good way to educate a privileged westerner like me. I hope they have a lot more success.

Cool sound and good vibe. I love knowing that music from this part of the world is the origin point of the blues and then is mixed back into it

I really don’t understand all the comparisons to Ali Farka, just because they share his last name. Songhoy Blues is a lot more western sounding, taking more inspiration from 50’s rock n’ roll than blues. And it’s not half bad. Mostly western rn’r with that cool call/response vocals that seem to be à western african thing (I don’t have enough knowledge to state it confidently). Don’t think I’ll ever listen to the album again, but I didn’t hate it. I even liked Petit Métier quite a bit

African blues rock, kind of cool and kind of repetitive.

Þetta er hress Mali-blús og gæti togast í fjarka ef ég hlusta meira, en eftir tvær hlustanir er þetta rock solid 3,3.

It’s clearly a foreign language, yet I can totally picture my dad’s generation humming along. Transcending genres, music is truly universal.

Solid. Really enjoyable vibe. Nothing super new about this other than that there is a nice Mali feel to an old genre. 3/5, would bop again.

Gud vocals, the band has a touching story too, just not the kinda music I will listen to

Desert Blues, what a thing! Very interesting if a bit repetitive. Lovely voices/harmony and great guitar work. Sounds almost Indian. North Mali specific. Imagine the banning of music. Religion is such nonsense. 3/5

Instrumentally very good and an interesting mix of western and African.

like the sound, no idea what they’re saying but very groovy

I've never once listened to "Desert Blues" or timbuktu punk as it was originally described, but i'm a fan. You experience the emotional sorrow of the blues while still maintaining the distinct sound that put them on the map. I'm a fan.

Weltmusik. Warum nicht? Handgemacht. Sauber produziert.

This isn't my thing at all but it's good, and v fun

Bit different. Nice to hear something not from America or the UK.

from the onset. NOT what i was expecting at all. rock/blues with some beautiful blues guitar riffs and with african influence beats...but... Started off brilliantly and then kind of withered and got a bit monotonous

Cool International blues sound. Don't think it reinvented the wheel or anything but a fun album

Soubour // Al Tchere Bele // Petit Metier //

Fav: Al Hassidi Terei Least Fav: Wayei

I love me some tuareg blues, this was close enough that I recognize the connect. I like it a bit more rough with buzzing guitars if possible, but I did thoroughly enjoy this listen. Can't promise to return to Songhoy Blues's music, but I know I'll continue to spin Tinariwen and Mdou Moctar.

Like it. One of the suggested that actually paid off as in being good and well done.

This was as good or better than any of the world style records on this list

- Having run away from their hometown, Songhoy Blues created an album reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix and the Beatles - They obviously have faced adversity, and the music they created is still music, and they have some banging beats - No, it's not the first time I've listened to this, and yes, it still resonates with me.

This was a good album. The melodies were a lot of fun. Probably not an album or band I come back to very often, but a pretty enjoyable blues album. I always forget about how much I like the blues until I listen to it again. Liked Songs: "Soubour" , "Irganda" , "Nick" , "Wayei"

Lyder godt! Jeg kan godt lide sådan noget her. Kunne godt have sneget sig op på 4 hvis den var kommet når det var varmt udenfor

The genre was nice. I got a bit fatigued towards the end - It lost some pacing and it became less interesting to hear.

Worthy successors of Ali Farka Toure's legacy building the link between West Africa and the US Songhoy Blues blend blues rythyms with more sophisticated Malian techniques on Music in Exile. Soubour combines Malian lead with blues rhythm sections. Al Hassidi Terei goes one step further by incorporating time signature changes and polymeters(?). Sekou Oumarou finds the synthesis with a stripped back 2/4 call and response. Nick sounds like something straight out of the Chess back catalogue with a strong electric 12-bar blues. Al Tchere Bele takes us furthest away from the blues paradigm featuring complex rythyms and anxious guitar melodies and vocals. Kaira Arby provides beautiful backing vocals to Wayei, another track closer to Malian traditional music. Petit Metier starts with a familiar yet distinctive vocal intro before introducing almost gospel choir call and response. Jolie begins with a syncopated ballad before slowly building up to something reminiscent of Rokia Kone's Bamanan (2022). Desert Melodies and Mali round out the album with simple traditional sounding techniques on guitar and vocal. While many of the tracks feature virtuoso Malian, blues and R&B guitar they are mixed bass forward, recognising the importance of the rhythm section in all the styles they incorporate.

A very groovy and fun African blues rock record that sadly just didn’t really stick with me

Pretty cool

alot better than i thought it would be

I’m surprised by how well this list covers West African music, and it seems especially tapped into the “desert blues” scene. That is really cool, like, legitimately, especially considering how spotty this book is otherwise when it comes to ~world music~ from other continents. (For this reason, I won’t be at all shocked if a new edition includes an album from Mdou Moctar.) Unfortunately, Music in Exile isn’t really my personal vibe. It’s clear that Songhoy Blues are talented as fuck, with chaotic yet tight as screws rhythms and guitar shreds for days. They mostly use this talent to make some pretty standard-fare blues rock, though, which is disappointing and a clear waste. The best moments on this record are the ones that seamlessly combine West African musical elements with American blues traditions, leading to a frenzied, Afrobeat flurry. When that touch is light – or worse, nonexistent – it starts to drag, and the charm is lost completely. And it’s really a 40/60 split between a unique approach and bland pastiche. I think Music in Exile is pretty decent, but it’s not as interesting as the description on the tin makes it sound.

Really fun discovery. Exactly what I love about this website and working through the 1,000

Really interesting listen 3/5

3.3 stars rounded down.

Cool stuff.

Unfathomably uninmpressing

Cool instrumentation and rhythms in play, but not really my style. Cool for a bit, but I can’t latch onto the song structure or melodies.

It was interesting to me that even though I couldn't understand the words, the blues spoke for itself. I liked that.

Good when in a particular mood. Happy to be introduced to it.

Achei bem interessante, mas é aquele tipo de musica que precisa de um pouco mais de dedicação para entender as letras, entrar no universo e pegar a vibe.

Mabey I’m overly cynical here today but this just felt gimmicky. Interesting concept of having African dudes playing blues music but I just didn’t buy it. Good effort and maybe I’m wrong. Side note this seems like it is one of the most current records I have had to listen to on this list.

I haven't been a big fan of most of the "world music" in this list, but this one hits a little different. A real guitar-driven, bluesy feel but with some African flair mixed in. Not bad for a few guys from (literally) Timbuktu.

Sympa !

cool sound, a genre I should listen to more

6.5/10. It's a really intriguing album. I think that the desert blues vibe is nice. That being said, it isn't really for me. It does have some really nice songs on it. Sorry!!! :)

I liked it. Maybe to much of the African vibe at times. But I can live with it. Didnt understand much of the lyrics thought

new sound for me, cool but not really my sort of thing

This was fine. Nothing that blew my mind - but nothing I was turned off about.

Moderne afrikansk bluesrock, rytmisk, underholdende

Snapte er niks van, maar wel vibey

It's hard to imagine being forced to flee your home and start a new life. It's amazing they channeled their story into something beautiful and positive and continued to spread the sounds of their roots. Kinda dig the Mali blues!

That was a pleasant surprise. This is why this album project is so appealing to me, I get to hear things I never would otherwise. Despite having no idea what these guys are singing about this still manages to be really catchy, toe-tapping stuff. I enjoyed the music from the very first minute, and can hear the emotions in the later songs. This album is an interesting journey.

Интересная музыка, но не понятно как альбом оказался в этом списке

Another interesting item this project has thrown up, great rhythms, melodies. Think because of me not being unable to speak the language I’m missing out on an important part of what when are expressing if the wiki entry is anything to go by, but still great music all the same, and will have to take a-look at the documentary.

The first few tracks are good, but songs in the middle seems to be a bit dull as no exciting changes in music happened, then in Petit Metier music begins to become more interseting again. I appreciate the unique sound it brings but I can't deny that it's a bit homogeneous somehow. I do like the music though, probably a 3/5-3.5/5.

This is a really interesting album with a really interesting story. A group of fellas so determined to play rock and roll that they are forced to leave their own country due to shariah law. It’s old school blues/rock n roll, but there’s some very clearly defined African influences as well, which makes for a fun album to listen to. I’m definitely more impressed by their story and commitment to the music than I am by their actual songwriting, which is honestly nothing special. It’s a fun album and I think it’s pretty well done, but I probably won’t be listening to it again. 3 stars.

It’s nice to finally get something from outside of North America or Europe, and this album comes to us from Mali. It’s predominantly a rock and roll album tinged with blues and a clear influence from North African music. I enjoyed the experience of listening to this album, but it’s too much of a traditional rock n roll album for me to really get super excited about. “Wayei” was my favorite track. 6.5/10

Much more fun than I thought it would be. Though I can’t understand what they are singing about the rhythms make you feet tap and the singing is infectious.

Enjoyable, if not my thing

i was expecting a global rating slightly lower, not bad not remarkable imo

Nice surprise

Opened up with a stonker. Pleasantly surprised by this although didn’t understand a word. Blues is blues right. And this wasn’t the no time for blues type. Trailed off towards the end.

The Blues originated in the cotton fields of the Missippi delta. It is the history of African-America's fight against slavery and story telling of their suffering at the hands of colnialism. And so its right the blues should get a revamp with a wholly Afrtican slant. This rocks but with joy and ambition rather than describing the wores of oppression. Good.

Blues terug naar de roots. Vet.

good, but as an odd track

I love the story behind this album, and as it started I loved the sound. That being said, can’t imagine listening to it again.

Meh 2.5 stars

This wasn't bad.

3/5 - would listen again Really tight. Great riffs and harmonies. Good melody lyrically, but not understanding lyrics is a drawback. May be Desert Blues, but their story is as punk as it comes!

Interesting, i wasn’t expecting the electric guitar on this one. Something new and interesting but probably wont seek out again

Better than you'd expect

Nice to listen to

not super enjoyable, but fun

Pretty good and interesting to listen to something different, although I was expecting something more engaging. After a few spins I don't really remember any of the songs in particular.

This was more bluesy and rocky than I expected from musicians from Mali. It's an interesting listen, but I don't speak the language so it doesn't pull me as much.

Strong 3 that is probably a strong 4, if not for the language barrier. Buyt, that's more my problem than the albums.

Due to this landing on a Friday, I was able to run in twice. Im glad I did because it took me a while to enjoy the fusion of western rock ideas (what sounded like blues/r&b) with the afro/mali rock sounds. I still think it would be challenging to find a band for them to tour with- apparently they opened for Alabama Shakes for a while? I didn’t hate any track. I most enjoyed the albums final two tracks - desert melodies and Mali. The story behind the band is pretty inspiring too. Islam is one hell of a drug

Interesting to read their story, and some cool connections to western music - sort of discovered by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, played alot of the big festivals, and opened for Alabama Shakes in NYC. Spotify happened to auto-play their newer 2020 album "Optimisme" after this one, and it's a completely different band. These influences above come out so much more. Obviously something sounding western shouldn't be the bar, but this album brings through the blues sounds and guitar chops so much more, while still keeping some of the west African rhythms and licks. And it rocks - especially the opening track "Bandala". Music in Exile wasn't really my thing, but will give these guys some stars as a band overall, and because we could be distant Hoy cousins.

6.5/10

Another win for the list, introducing me to something I never would have listened to. Too bad I can't understand the lyrics, as that would give a deeper appreciation. I enjoyed the western/african fusion, but did find it somewhat repetitive. I will listen to more in their catalog.

As I don't understand the language, I'm at a loss how to review this properly. The music is ok, the production is a bit flat, the singing is ok, but that's about it.

Finally an album with a bit of spark after a real run of turgidity. If they’d kept up their initial groove all the way through this would have had a higher rating from me.

Pretty good. Maybe would have enjoyed more if I knew the language. As it stands, it was good but won't revisit

3 out of 5. Real interesting listen and good singing.

Didn’t know what to expect and was pleasantly surprised!

Enjoyable listen and great opening track.

I enjoyed this album. Considering the bias in this list to psychedelic rock and male singer-songwriters, this album is a welcome relief. Awesome music. Not being able to understand the lyrics made me appreciate the sound of the words and music so much more. Worthy of this list.

That was a rollercoaster. After 10 seconds of the first track I was considering turning it off. I persevered and after a couple of tracks I was actually enjoying it. By the end of the album it had all got a bit too 'samey' for me and I'd just about had enough. Musically it was quite unique, I could hear the obvious and expected influences from Africa, but also some rock and folk tones too. I won't be rushing to hear anymore of their work, or even give this particular album a rerun - but it was worth listening. Another 3 stars from me.

I liked this, very interesting mix of genres here. I probably won't go back to it though, nothing really hooked me.

Blues mixed with more traditional African music. Pleasant to listen to, like a familiar meal with unfamiliar spices. If you like electric American/British Blues, you might like this album. I’m torn between 2 and 3 starts, so I will round up.

This one is really nice. I love the vibe and tempo. The vocals are enchanting along with the musicianship that accompanies it. Beautiful sequences and captivating sounds that really draw the ear to only want to be closer to it. This is one of those records I likely never would have discovered without this project. Very solid.

I liked it! I think I’d have to listen again to fully form an opinion and appreciate it.

I really wanted to like this more. Great story and the first song sounds a bit like the black keys

Always interesting to hear rock interpreted from different cultures and perspectives, definitely would not have listened to this otherwise! Sad that this is just a remnant of a much larger civilization's musical history. A good groove - mix of Afro and rock and blues almost.

In so many cases, rock music from around the globe can feel just a little bit off, as though people are trying to mimic American or British music, but not quite getting it right. Western African rock is the exact opposite; the music has a deeply familiar feel to it, even when it sounds nothing like "Western" rock. This is a huge part of the allure of Music in Exile. The aesthetic is deeply rooted in chants and drones, but it rarely strays from the cascading arpeggios and bouncy arrangements that makes West African rock sound so pretty and joyful. This album was a joy to listen to. It isn't necessarily something I'll revisit, but I was pleased at what an easy and agreeable listen it was. 3.5/5

Some great tracks and guitar, worth revisiting

Nice one, most of it

Solid, quite enjoyable. The songwriting may not be very diverse or complex but I still liked it well enough

This was a really good listen. African Rock with a terrible back story

Was definitely surprised by this one, African blues is not something I’d ever say I’d listen to on my own but some of these songs rock even though I have no idea what they’re saying. The last few songs aren’t my jam though but solid listen

I wasn’t my thing. Enjoyed it though

Need one more listen to call this an out-and-out favorite (only had time for one today), but pretty damn great regardless. Glad one of the post-05 selections has hit

Didn’t realise I needed indy rock from Mali in my life but not upset I’ve got it.

Malinese Black Keys

I liked this album a lot so it was tough to only give a 3/5. Would have easily been a 6/10 because it had a great vibe, perfect to listen to on lazy weekend afternoons. It wasn't a bad album by any means, I loved the rhythm, and especially love an album that's not in English because it really is something different from what I usually listen to. I just struggled to pay attention to it because there wasn't anything about it that made me go "oh yeah this slaps". Keeping this album saved though so maybe I'll change my mind in future and bump it to a 4/5

I went through a pretty big Afrobeat phase awhile back but was not familiar with desert blues. It’s not bad. Nothing on this album particularly grabbed me but it was a nice change of pace as something to listen to. I’m glad to have spent some time with this album.

A unique blues album from the heart of Africa.

Okayish desert blues. Rich, earthy, fairtrade sound but none of the songs really grabbed me and the vocals weren’t quite my bag. A 1001 album I wouldn’t mind too much if it was playing at a coffee shop. 3 macchiatos out of 5.

3.5 stars 7.5 out of 10

Great performances and energy. Interesting style of music.

A cool and unique take on American blues/rock. Not the most exciting, but pretty well-executed. Best song: Sekou Oumarou

Very interesting blend of genres. I enjoyed this and might reach for it in the right mood but probably not one I would go for often. Not too much of a problem for me that I can't understand the language, it's just got a nice sound.

169/1001

3/4

I mean, I wasn't completely sure what to expect from a afro-blues rock band from Timbuktu; I only knew how to think of it from the perspective of an American band performing that genre. Turns out, I wasn't too far off! Without being able to understand the language of the lyrics, I feel like I can at least say the voices and vocal stylings of Songhoy Blues is well suited for this genre! The album title -- "Music in Exile" -- is quite impactful, considering the story behind the members of Songhoy Blues being forced to leave their homes due to socio-political conflict. Even the band name "Songhoy Blues" alludes to the suffering and struggles faced by the Songhoy people in this situation. But seeing as this was their first album, it is obvious that the situations they were facing drove and influenced their music. There is truly some great guitar work at play on this album, and despite the white world's tendency to refer to anything by non-English bands as "world music", this is not really world music. There are aspects of traditional African music at play here, but it is definitely not the most forward part of their music. Being this far into the project, questions continue to arise in me like "do I really need to listen to this before I die?", but I digress. It was a good listen. Not a great one, but a good one.

Not bad.

The music is pretty tight!

Refreshing to see some African music in a predominantly UK / US centric canon. Reminds me of Gnawa music a lot. Awesome album, gets a bit repetetive though.

Was looking good for a 4, but definitely worth a listen

Album 509 of 1001 Songhoy Blues - Music in Exile Rating : 3 / 5

A great album - not my style

This was pretty good given my expectations. Can’t go crazy over it like many of the reviews. But it wouldn’t be something I was dying to turn off.

Not sure what language they were singing but it was kind of fun.

Relatively interesting, but I think I like the biography better than the music. Still, a nice find.

Not what I expected at all. Better.

Good for what it was. Obviously I didn’t know what the hell they were saying, but music was good

This was fine. Cool music, cool story behind this band. I probably won't revist it though.

not really my thing, but i can see myself listening to this again someday..

dudes from mali

I didn’t understand a word of the lyrics. No tracks I’d listen to again. They have a good sound though.

Very moving background to the origin of this album. It was made to keep the music of northern Mali alive during a time when an extremist group banned music in that area. It’s an interesting listen, but without being able to understand the lyrics it eventually all started sounding too similar to my ears. I know that’s a me problem not a them problem, but I can only rate it for myself.

This album started really strongly. Unfortunately it drifted off after that.

Unique yet familiar sound. Good blend.

Some really cool bears and guitar but a little repetitive

3.5, the vocals remind me of Mdou Moctar.. guess it makes sense given the similar of the languages

Nice change of pace from sad British music. Only three stars though because I didn't the music particularly compelling.

After a couple of listens this is really cool. It's a 3.5, but going to 3 for new-ness, plus blues riffs start sounding the same to me after a while.

I started to get bored towards the end, probably cuz I couldn't understand a damn thing they were saying. Imagine how bored you would be listening to Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues" if you didn't understand a damn word he was saying. It's not bad, but to keep my interest there's gotta be crazy merit in the instrumental -- something like Stevie Ray Vaughan or Beethoven. Regardless, my favorite tracks were Soubour and Nick. Least favorite track was Mali.

What an origin story! Getting connected with guys from The Strokes, Blur, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs is quite an introduction to western audiences. Looks like they played at ACL a few years back. The blues riffs at faster-than-standard-blues tempos on top of the driving persistent rhythmic patterns makes it feel both familiar but not. It’s all very tight and precise. The production quality is high without being overdone. I enjoyed it! 3.8

Good rhythmic energy and groove; world music with a bluesy feel. It has a contemporary and accessible sound. The music doesn't vary much with different sections (i.e. verse/bridge/chorus), but it works without feeling overly repetitive. Very solid overall. 3.6

Dude this is literally what this entire 1001 thing is for. Despite the language barrier, this was hella catchy. I love how they incorporated the rock sounds of the west but still stayed true to their own sound. Opening song? Fucking banger. I can’t give a 4 because I have no idea what’s being said though.

The story behind this is so inspiring. Music transcends all. Getting help from Julian Casablancas is awesome too. I think the guitar is so so crispy. You can feel the influences behind the music so clearly. I even hear like some vampire weekend energy on jolie. I think this is cool and I am blown away but I don't see myself coming back but I am glad I heard it

Some great tracks mixed with dated-sounding ones

great

Yep always quite liked these guys, and this is more what this list is about to me rather than another bloody Elliott Smith album. Driving bluesy gritty tunes from Mali, no idea what they are saying but the same goes for plenty of English speaking artists. Great to hear there is music from beyond the Anglosphere worth checking out.

It was interesting to hear how much Western rock influence this album seems to have. This album put me in a good mood! That said, it felt long. I’m a big lyric lover, so any album where I can’t hear or understand the lyrics is hard to listen to for more than 30 minutes.

Didn't understand any lyrics but overall not a bad Album.

Interesting from a cultural perspective but not crazy about the music itself (2.5/5)

Good musicianship, but I had a hard time focusing without being able to understand the lyrics.

Nice drive to the music; guitar work is great! Can feel a bit repetitive at times.

Kinda decent in a “World Music” sort of way.

Really enjoyable album which I would likely have never come across if not for this project. I will definitely have to listen to it a couple of more times. It slows down towards the end which isn’t a bad thing, but it just meant I ran out of steam while listening to because I personally was not in the right headspace. There is a lot of powerful emotion in the music and lyrics, I would love to see a translation. The earlier tracks will definitely go into my daily commute playlist though.

Very pleasant listen, goes well with work (as does a lot of stuff in another language than English as you're not decoding the lyrics).

I wish I understood the lyrics as according to their bio this band arose out of anger at Jihadist movements in Mali.

3.5/5

I couldn't understand what they were singing, so my enjoyment of this album was all vibes. I do enjoy knowing the lyrics to a song, as I'm dumb in that it takes words to get me totally into an album/song. Overall, this was an enjoyable album and I did not expect it to sound the way it did. The music belongs in the book, even if I would not necessarily buy the album.

Solid album. Good mix of African rhythms and American southern rock/pop.

I liked the sound and feel of it- I wish I would have had more time to look into the actual meanings of the songs. Overall, pretty nice to listen to.

Liked it. It was fun to listen to. Lots of heart and character. More than just a blues album because of where it comes from. Wish I knew what they were saying. My only gripe is that the guitar solos are kind of basic, nothing revolutionary. It’s also very repetitive. It is really cool to hear a style that emerged out of slave/black culture in the United States through the lense of African culture. Very unique. B teir.

This is a really solid album. Sometimes I’m more likely to skip the world music picks but I would advise against it for this one.

Nice bit of variety, but hasn't really stayed with me after a couple listens. 3.5 🌟

sick honestly. probably won’t listen again but not bad at all

Great grooves

A solid album with excellent blues playing. I was starting to connect with it after the 2nd listen and feel like it’s one that would grow on you as you get past the non-English vocals. Probably an ignorant comparison, but this reminds me of Buena Vista Social Club in a way, the expert musicianship mixed with a new age air and international grooves. A good effort.

Not to my taste but recognise the quality of the music

It was a vibe, "dudes just being dudes."

the first song sounds like ford truck month. the rest is pretty cool

ok

Nice Malian guitars, very reminiscent of Tinariwen. Enjoyable.

Nothing special to me, but I enjoy the unique grooves and instrumental parts. It’s nice to hear different styles of music as well.

This was alright but wouldn't be something I'd revisit. Decent quality for what it is though

The music is cool, but a bit repetitive.

The music was great.

I liked this enough while listening but probably won’t return to it.

Pre listen: Don’t know these guys, but if they’re like Tinariwen, I suspect I will like them. After listening: it’s definitely the same genre, but I don’t get the same excitement from it. Gonna be a 3.

It's okay

It really didn't catch my ear

3.5★ What a banging album. There’s one value in listmaking and it’s to discover material that you otherwise wouldn’t have come across or given a spin, which is very much the case with me and this album. Not sure how much the lyrics have to do with the titular theme but I do feel that understanding them would probably help the resonance, as opposed to the songs sounding like similar variations of the same thing. Nonetheless I really liked it. Favorites: tracks 1-5 (Soubour, Iraganda, Al Hassidi Terei, Sekuo Oumarou, Nick) + Wayei + Petit Metier (this plus the opener probably being the favorites among the favorites). No obvious skips on the first few listens, though the last two tracks are notably weaker.

3.5/5

Okay

That's not my taste in musik. But ok.

Yea, pretty nice

Smooth blues! 3/5

Really interesting mix of a traditional blues sound on guitar, chanting, and almost a dancy percussion section. Little redundant at times but still solid.

Blues is not my thing, but I like it's roots and fruits. Most of this I could get on with. I liked Sekou Oumaro, Wayei and Ai Tchere Bele (fast 6/8) especially. Nice sunny day driving music.

Really enjoyed this…

Pretty good

Enjoyed this one - wouldn't have been an album I'd just pick up on my own. Well played, albeit a bit same-y with tempos, etc.

Echt wel nice!

Decent but too repetitive for my taste

Uplifting desert blues

This album was good. I think the story adds some emotion to the music but the reserved African sound doesn't add to the emotions. It's a band of political refugees forced to uproot their lives and somehow it feels very little of it comes through the multiple vocal layers. The guitar instrumentation is tremendous, these guys are talented and the guitarist especially was very powerful and perfectly done. You can hear the inspirations, Hendrix'esq guitar and a real commitment to 60s and 70s rhythm & blues that you don't see as much anymore. Favorite Song Irganada. Note: This album reminded me of one of my favorite albums, Inteiro Metade by Tagua Tagua. It's a bit groovier and synthetic but I recommend if you liked this album and

Always interesting to see which causes are highlighted and which ones are not.

This was completely new to me in terms of genre, language, and overall tone. It took me a few tracks to get into it, but then I found myself grooving with it. Maybe I'll put this on the backburner in case I need to prove to someone how deep my taste in music is.

I liked the rhythm and the melody, but I didn't connect with lyrics as I don't understand the language. Lyrics are important to me and these might be great lyrics, but they are lost on me. My loss. Anyway, it sounds like it could be a great album, but it won't make it into my rotation.

A blues rock album from a different world. Interesting.

Mali blues I love it

The Fabulous Thunderbirds kind of blues if sang in Songhai and recorded with Mali sensibilities.

WTF is it about guitar players from Mali named Touré? Ok, I couldn't resist and looked it up about four tracks in. I didn't even realize that was a thing until just now. A lot of blues influence here. I wonder how the cultural appropriation police would feel about this? I like the playing and the sounds but the tunes aren't that interesting to me.

I've never heard of them before, but it's really nice to hear a band in this collection that's (a) not from North America or Europe and (b) doesn't sound like a sort of genericized world-music band (at least for much of the album). And they've got a great (and also tough) backstory both for the title of the album and their journey from the Timbuktu region to the capital of Mali (and beyond). (A bit of a bummer that so many Malians (and apparently many West Africans) have the same last name Touré, as it's hard to know what sort of connections the band members had to each other, although interesting to know that Garba Touré is "the son of Ali Farka Touré's long-time percussionist".) I'm not sure I've ever heard "[Sahara] desert blues" before, but I like their version of it, and most of the songs have great guitar and rhythm work to them; it's also amazing to read that Malian blues long (long long) predates American blues. Admittedly, I have no idea what the song titles or lyrics mean, so I can't really judge whether their songs are more formulaic or story-driven, but I like the energy and sound nonetheless.

Fun and interesting afro blues blend. Personally feels a little repetitive but I think that's part of the genre - maybe in a different mood I'd appreciate that aspect more. Some delightful melodies and exciting, unusual rhythms.

I enjoyed that. It started better than it finished.

cool dudes. first song was fantastic and a bit whatevs from there. im sure theyre saying some important shit.

"Music in Exile" no podía ser un título más apropiado para un disco de los Songhoy Blues. Integrantes de la tribu songhoy, los componentes del grupo tuvieron que huir cuando en 2012 el norte de su país, Mali, cayó en manos de Ansar Dire. Con su sonido del desierto entregan una maravillosa mezcla de rock 'n' roll americano tradicional, blues y melodías tradicionales songhoy. Lo que tambien es, en la más pura tradición del rock, expresión de identidad, compromiso y protesta. Difícil destacar un tema sobre los demás, pero citaré la primera canción, "Soubou", el épico arranque de "Al Hassidi Terei" y la muy rockera "Nick".

Vond het niet zoveel aan. Startte heel goed maar daarna steeds hetzelfde

Best lekker gebrabbel, lekker in de ochtend met n zonnetje

Surprised me and is very entertaining.

Good album, strong guitar work. I'm not sure it adds anything new or interesting to the desert blues genre, but it's a good listen regardless.

I did not know what to expect and I'm not certain I understand this style well enough to rate it.

A very unique twist on blues rock, being much more up-beat and dance oriented. Very enjoyable listen, although again to my untrained ear the album did start to blend together towards the end. But you can hear the fun and passion behind each sing. Top tracks: Soubour, Al Hassidi Terei, Petit Metier

i liked it but realistically i am not going to revisit this album

African blues is not what I expected to hear today, nonetheless I enjoyed it. They have much to offer.

Not my style, Definitely respect this.

Enjoyable, good vibe. Quite samey

Well, I kind of like this style of music. And some of the songs here are really beautiful. But there are quite some artists / records from the genre that I hold in higher esteem. This one for me is somewhat too much on the mellow and conventional side. Still a good record, but it is missing some edge and some of the guitar playing would have been better off played with the Kora, as it feels too close to that instrument as one could call it inspired by. Concerning message or meaning, I cannot judge, but from what it is said, there is no hidden evil lurking. On a secondary note: don't go for the deluxe edition. The three additional covers don't go well with the album.

Unique (and enjoyable) guitar parts and a couple of songs to my taste, especially “Petit Metier”, but something about it wasn’t really my thing. I do understand the appeal, though — Songhoy Blues have really got something going for them.

Mali, african desert bues, blues rock, OK

Very unusual, really enjoyed it

Beautiful music.

African blues music, I prefer more dance in this genre but I don't mind it.

Ugandan blues wasn’t for me but definitely a head turner

Didn’t understand a word but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the instrumentals.

If the black keys knew how to hold a groove and let it simmer

Music in Exile by Songhoy Blues is a captivating album that seamlessly merges the American guitar sound with the vibrant rhythms of Mali. Throughout the record, the band showcases their impressive harmonies and infectious grooves, making it a enjoyable listen from start to finish. While Julian Casablancas didn't collaborate directly with the band on the album, his support in promoting their music in the US undoubtedly helped bring their unique sound to a broader audience. The album's production quality is superb, allowing each instrument to shine while highlighting the band's tight musical chemistry. Tracks like Soubour and Al Hassidi Terei stand out with their irresistible energy and soulful melodies. Overall, Music in Exile is a testament to the band's passion and authenticity, showcasing the power of music to bridge cultural divides and unite listeners worldwide. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 3 STAND OUT TRACK - Soubour

Very bouncy and eclectic! Draws from so many genres and references, very cool find!

What starts off as a fun and danceable new fusion of sounds turns into the same old same old by the end of the album. I feel like they came out blasting with the best riffs and vocal hooks at the start and the rest of the tracks were kinda just jams. Good jams though. The last track is sombre and sweet and I appreciate them ending on that note given the bands history. I wish they just kept reinventing but it's easier said than done.

It was a change, but nothing more.

The guitar and rhythm of this album really carry you along, providing some great blues energy. Many songs have a certain bounce to them that is reminiscent of an Irish jig while still having the weight of a blues rock jam, which I enjoyed.

I was pleasantly surprised by this selection. Am I gonna throw this album into my rotation? Probably not. Did I groove out while listening to this? Hell yeah! I wish I knew what they were saying, but those cats were cookin. Light 3 (it feels racist going any lower) Fav songs: Irganda, Nick, Jolie

I couldn’t understand the words but I could understand what they were saying if you know what I mean?? Had me dancing around the apartment for some songs! Fave Song: Irganda (translates to “our environment”)

I couldn't understand a single word of the lyrics but I enjoyed it musically and it was refreshing to get something different than the usual fare. 3.5/5

I would probably rate higher if I could understand the lyrics. Fairly enjoyable, though. It has a nice classic rock feel to it. Made me think of ZZ top.

First time hearing this- enjoyed it, some awesome blues guitar. 🎸🌵 Favorite Track: Soubour

Soubour- I like the clapping beat. I saved it! Al Hassidi Terei- I like the call-and-response parts I added Petit Metier. I think they are speaking some French?! I don’t really like some of the rock influences

To discover stuff like this is why I am going through this list. These boys shred. Felt the energy, but couldn't really connect to the music, probably because of the language barrier.

Like the vibe but a lil too noisy for me. Like tinariwen but noisier

Malian desert blues rock. Cool albeit repetitive for my ears.

Very cool

Meh

It's good stuff. It's very rhythmic and that appeals to my base musical wants. The kind of music that I'm always pleased to hear ... though not necessarily near the top of my 'things I choose to listen too' pile.

It's okay. I liked the sounds but somthing I wouldn't listen to in a daily basis

Was decent 6/10

Great musicianship and sound to this one. Enjoyed hearing something from another culture.

Obviously not music I listen to but I can appreciate the depth of the album.

Not bad

это интересно конечно, но надо намного больше тренировать ухо чтобы южные/восточные вокальные стили воспринимать

Desert blues.... band from Mali.... 3-4 stars

Each song was great at the start but the beats never went anywhere. Something this beat heavy can't be so monotonous.

This was my first time listening to this album, and it exceeded my expectations. There is some really good guitar work and production choices throughout, however the language barrier prevents me from enjoying it to it's fullest extent.

Interessante und kurzweilige afrikanische Rhythmen aus Gitarren, Folk Elementen und einem angenehmen Tempo. Man versteht kein Wort des Textes der in fast jedem Lied „Wambo Wambo“ enthält. Man fühlt sich wie an einen schwülen Sommer Abend am offenen Feuer in der Steppe von Mali und plötzlich erklingt es „Should I stay, or should I go“ 😊

World music always fascinates me and fills me with questions of what the scenes did/do look like, who were these bands influenced by, etc. This album starts off musically closer to something in a modern blues-rock groove than what I'd expect from an African band. I really only knew of Ladysmith black mambazo and this is pretty far from that. Did their blues and rock follow a similar evolution as what we saw stateside? Whatever the story is, the fact is the first half of this definitely rocks. The second half seems to lose some of the powerful guitar sounds and gets more traditional to almost more have a sound I more associate with the middle east. That style shift plus me being unable to really understand the story or lyrics ( my fault, not fair I know) holds this album back a bit, but happy to have heard it and will throw a couple tracks on a playlist. Favorite track "Soubour" - but really could be any of the first 4-5 3/5

C'est très bien essayé de la part de Robert d'essayer de nous faire croire qu'il s'y connaît en blues malien mais personne n'est dupe.

Un excellent recueil d'africanaiserie, on s'en régale

It's okay, but repetitive

Cool. Appreciate being exposed to music outside the normal critics choices. I like it cause I’m a sucker for basic rock chords and melody, the traditional aspects and rhythms are beautiful. As a stand alone record, without knowing the bands history, there’s nothing really new or groundbreaking here.

These guys can JAM, even if I have no Idea what they're saying...

bom abubiblues

Gear: Moondrop Variations Mix: modern und hochwertig. Gitarre spielt frei und überall. Basslauf "Sekou Oumarou" und Drums in "Al Tchere Bele" Highlights Musik: Blues mit nem afrikanischen Twist. Vertraut aber auch frisch. Wertung: 3-4

It’s world music.

African Blues. I found myself moving along with some songs and less affected by others. A second listen to the first two songs was worth it, but most of the remaining songs lost that energy.

Who would've thought that Malinese blues music would be my thing?

It was fine. The instrumentation and composition was not interesting, so without understanding the lyrics there was nothing to hold me.

I enjoyed this blues album immensely. Great grooves.

Pretty good blues album

Interesting, but not really for me

Good music, but I just don't want to listen to the foreign language.

not bad at all, just not my type of music

Album surprised me. Very relaxing

Traditional African style beats mixed with some rock and roll crested an enjoyable listen ...

Really liked this, very pretty and sometimes rocking tunes. Will have to look more into this group.

a fun a cute record that gets the basics right!

Buenas canciones y ritmos interesantes.

Good musicianship, nice groove. I just have a problem with songs I can’t sing along with or know what they are saying.

Pleasant background 6 music fodder

First few songs are good, but gets a bit annoying-background-noisey after that

I enjoyed the music on this album. Unfortunately, this album is in another language so any impact the lyrics would have provided were lost on me. I am not sure I would listen again however I am glad I did listen to it.

Good

Like any blues album, this has a lot of the same chord progressions from song to song. But done by an African band, it treats the blues with its own brand of rhythms and vocals. At times hypnotic, but ultimately kind of boring.

2.6 - The music is pretty good. The rest, not as much.

I liked it enough. Appreciate having new stuff show up on this list. Won't join the rotation but was a good 1 listen. Will I listen to again: 5%

3+

It is a kind of very original blues mix witu a bit of african music, but they compose and play it very well.

Good blend of different styles with some interesting guitar work and nice polyrhythms going on. A good listen, but I was hoping for a bit more variety, and it felt a little repetitive in places.