Reviews (page 9 of 12)
Best Malian blues I’ve ever heard
This album wasn’t too bad. Good mix of African rhythms with more modern guitar.
pretty good actually. first track kind of fire
I didn’t know what to expect coming into this album. I did some research and saw that the band is from Mali. In all honesty, I wasn’t big on this album, but I can certainly see why other people would enjoy it. The main hurdle I couldn’t get across was not being able to understand the lyrics. As someone who usually listens to the lyrics first, this was hard for me to stomach. But, for everything I’ve said, I am willing to give the band its dues and say that the album did sound pretty good. The songs all had good rhythm and guitar work, and it really had that exotic feel to it. The album didn’t sound bad, it actually sounded pretty good. I may not come back to this album, but if your a fan of African music, or even if you’re from that culture, I’d suggest checking it out.
I enjoyed this even without understanding the lyrics. Good music speaks in all languages.
No clue what was going on here with this album, but it was pleasant enough to listen to. 2.5⭐️ rounding up
Had no idea what to expect off of this album cover. Started off strong - really enjoyed that blues-rock sound, but then it slowly loses steam for me. Not a bad listen, but nothing I'd ever really seek out again, nor dig into the discography. 2.5, rounding up because the music beat the album cover expectations.
West African electric blues rock? Heck yeah! This grooves pretty hard right off the bat. I have no idea what they're saying, but that doesn't really matter. It does get a little samey after awhile, but it's still good even with this in mind.
Afrorock
me gusto mas la segunda escucha. volvere a escuchar. la primera fue en el consum esperando a q me hiciesen un poke la espera se me hizo eterna
Interesting
Nice morning vibes on this one. Will never listen to it again but if I run into it again I’ll be like oh yeah this album. 2.5. Stars
Music was excellent, lyrics had nice movement to it but not understanding it didnt hit the same, will definitely listen to this again though. really a 3.5
The beautiful thing about music is that it can bypass language barriers. The blues playing on this album is pretty incredible. It's so interesting how this rockabilly sound turned out with the influences of the Niger River sound. There's a grooving dance vibe throughout the album, a long with rock and blues elements obviously. The instrumentals stick to meat and potatoes bass and guitar, the drums really stand out as being traditionally African though, complete with multi-rhythmic drum grooves and all. The vocals on Wayei are absolutely spellbinding. This album features a lot of chant-style vocals and call-response vocals featured in more traditional African folk music. The acoustic cuts are pretty in their own way, and some of them are for sure a little stronger than the others. Overall a pretty enjoyable blues-world tinged rock album with VERY cool drum/vocal/guitar riffs. Would've liked to see a tad bit more traditional folk instrumentation throughout though.
J'avais bien aimé cet album du Mali quand j'etais tombé dessus il y a 10 ans. Des rhythmes qui feelent instables et des melodies presque atonales, pas familier pour les oreilles occidentales, mais ça reste bien ancré dans les codes du rock et blues, avec la vibe de band, les back vocals à l'unisson, les turnover blues (genre le début de Nick), la guit électrique. Une nouvelle écoute aujourdhui permet de remarquer que cetait pas si hot, quelques performances et tones qui laissent un peu à désirer, mais les good vibes sont encore là <3
Wonderful African music
3,3
I really liked it. Like Blues meets Fela Kuti
a world album with influences from blues, gotta say these albums are the reason why i do this. honestly could do with more african influence as it half felt like the record label wanted to turn it down but nevertheless a vibe
A really cool album, gotta love stuff like this which is different from everything else on this list.
I felt it was repetitive or a I was just becoming more dazed and tired due to this album
Nice listen-this is why I wanted to work thru the list. Enjoyed the music & sounds a lot
I came into this with no expectations and I thoroughly enjoyed this. Very nice background music to work to, stunning vocals.
Fine
A fine album from a Mali blues rock band with an interesting story
Really good! Cool blend
Kiinnostavia juttuja, mutta liika on liikaa tällaisen äänimaailman kanssa.
No ei selvinny mitä kieltä joikasivat mutta kuuntelin kokonaan. Kivoja rytmejä
Jälleen en ymmärtänyt sanoista mitään mutta ihan kivaa bluesneppailua tämäkin Malilaispumppu tarjoilee.
This was delightful. It used african rhythms and voices but filtered it through a western prism to make it very accessible for this middle aged white man. It got a bit samey after a while but a thoroughly enjoyable 2 times through.
Very good album; soothing, nice, relaxing. Petit Metier was my favorite. 3/5
This is my first totally new experience on this list, having not previously heard of Songhoy Blues, or this album, "Music In Exile". Perhaps I have heard them along the way without realising it? 1. Sourbour - Nice bluesy riff. Good vocals. Good percussion. 4* 2. Irganda - Uptempo. Danceable. Nice guitar. 4* 3. Al Hassidi Terei - This has a 60s feel to the guitar lick to it which reminds me of the Slade cover "I Hear You Calling". 3* 4. Sekou Oumarou - Nice swampy opening riff. A subdued number. 3* 5. Nick - A good opening riff again. The guitar reminds me of the 1950s blues, John Lee Hooker or Muddy Waters. 3* 6. Al Tchere Bele - 3*. 7. Wayei - 3*. Pretty guitar melodies. 8. Petit Metier. Ooh acoustic guitar. Very mellow. 3* 9. Jolie. Another melow number. The guitar is rolling along. The backing vocals are excellent, adding some dynamics, with the ending coming to a crescendo and abrupt halt. 4* 10. Desert Melodie - Gives the sense of drifting along, or even day dreaming. 3* 11. Mali. Nice folk style, guitar intro. 3* 36/55. Three stars. Blues mixed with African rhythms. It has a clean, bright sound. A pleasant enough listen. A little low key, perhaps. This didn't grab me. Lacks dynamics, and a little danger and/or despair. They maybe singing of this but it doesn't come through in the sound. At no time did I get the sense that they were in despair because their woman left them, or that they would knock you on your arse if you stole their woman. It could do with a Billy Gibbons or Muddy Waters growl hear and there. Nasty up the guitars a touch. Would I listen again? - Yes. Would I buy this album? - No
This is super cool. I didn’t know what to expect but it’s great music. I mean even thinking about west African music traveling (sic) to America and becoming blues then traveling back and becoming this. It’s blues but more exciting with sometimes delving into other territories - sometimes a bit heavier, sometimes meditative (Wayei). Great to have on this list.
Reading about this album while listening to it gave me a much bettter appreciation of the history and importance of this record - so I get why it made the list. But, musically it was just OK, nothing that really stood out or made me want to listen again in the future.
Blues based band from Timbuktu, Mali (Western Africa). Some songs with French lyrics, but western music with touches of African influence
I have no idea what these guys are saying, but man are they saying it. African music at its purest. The first two songs “Soubour” and “Irganda” absolutely rock and then the rest of the album calms down considerably. Despite that, this was a very pleasant experience. One of the ultimate examples of why I’m so glad to be doing this challenge. Were it not for this site, never in a million years would I find a charming little album like this. As a side note, the documentary these guys are prominently featured in, They Will Have To Kill Us First, is a very compelling story.
What a nice blues, and what a shame that making music is forbidden in northern Mali
Fine, but hard to get into the blues, when you don’t understand the stories, if there’s no funky instrumentalism. So some songs were great, some just the blues
pretty good
This was a very pleasant album to listen to in the morning.
fun
I fw some of the songhai stuff but never really liked these guys all that much, good stuff but nothing too special. they can definitely play tho
African rock music and blues. First half has such fun bangers with cool rocking guitars. Later half is stripped down, accoustic tracks with the signature african rubbery melodies and grooves. Less fun than the first half. Still a solid album. Al Hassidi Terei was my favourite from the album. I'll give it a 3.5.
It’s good but I’m not a world music fan
Rhythmic, upbeat then calm 3
My favorite band from Mali
Solid album, nice a funky. Fun listen, probably wouldn't go back to it but happy I listened once.
the music in this is so groovy mixed with a little rock and roll. i love it. can’t understand the words but the groove is nice.
Solid stuff, I vibe with Desert Blues
I liked it, but kind of repetitive at times
Pretty good stuff, little repetitive for a 40 minute album
Good but also not that interesting
Language barrier. It is upbeat and fun musically.
I never really listened to African music, so this was a fun new experience. Although it’s not my type of music, I can definitely appreciate it!
This is literally the first time I'm hearing of African desert blues. Very interesting reading up on the group too. Originally from Mali, some of the members were essentially forced out of their hometown by militant and eventually jihadist groups (who banned music among many other things, how does one ban MUSIC?). Regardless, this didn't stop the group from making music and eventually landing a record deal. Not knowing much about the Songhay language, I can really only speak on the instrumentals and rhythms/grooves that I'm hearing. The guitar is very prominent (as it is in your stock blues music) establishing the underlying rhythm and a constant energy for each track. And that energy varies from high to low depending on the track, as there are a few stripped down acoustic pieces here. You can really hear the emotion in the vocals, despite the foreign tongues. Pretty novel listening experience, even though this isn't something I'd necessarily seek out myself.
I like their story and the music was fine.
Achei legal
Pretty cool but can't see myself listening to a lot of it. 3 stars.
I love when this list actually gives me an album that I haven't heard of before and that isn't some lame British alt rock. That being said, this album kind of faded into the background for me.
...
It’s cool. I don’t know what to write about it. It’s not my thing.
very nice, i will definitely spend more time with it. haven't heard them or of them before, those are the best parts of the list. i do think the general idea will stay with me longer than any particular track though
I wish that I could understand the lyrics because I was very intrigued when I read this band’s story. They’re very talented, and instrumentally this was exactly the kind of album I enjoy. I have not received many non-English albums so far, but this sets a solid bar. I thought it was pretty good.
Of all the foreign language albums we have listened to - this may have been my favorite to this point
Bluesy jams from Timbuktu
Good album. Nice to listen to lyrics not in English for a change. No stand out song
-this was interesting! wasn’t sure what I was expecting to hear but there were a lot of influences I was sorta picking up on. so it never really got boring -I guess the end struggled to hold my interest as much as the beginning and middle -but holy shit some of these songs had a really good groove. I liked it -Favorites are Nick and Desert Melodie
This is why I love this list. Guitar blues album from a Mali band fleeing civil war and it was actually pretty decent. Language barrier probably stopped it scoring higher but was vibrant and enjoyable listen
Serene rock from mali, these guys really blend the rock instrumentals with their local music in a way that not only is it nice, it's also something I could see myself returning to. Really underrated but well made album
Quite pleasant
Nice blues!
This was a breath of fresh air after a nasty run of 2s. Id listen again! 6/10
Nice stuff! I enjoyed it pretty well although nothing super stood out to me
This was a good album, but I couldn't help but find it was all over the place, some real bangers alongside some rougher listens. I may have to give it more listens to really appreciate it, but I don't have a strong desire to return to it yet.
Solid stuff! I love hearing music from across the world, and Songhai/Malian music isn't one I'd touched on before now.
Nutty guitar all the way through Wish I could dive deeper into some lyrics Petit Metier stood out in particular
Good album but did not have the magic of others for me. I think i would have enjoyed more if I could understand the lyrics. Intriguing but did not change my life.
Started out a bit boring, but picked up as it went along. African music has always done something for me
Of to a strong start but got a bit homogene after 5 songs
Cool, but not my jam. Reminds me of the album Damon Albarn did. Some cool grooves, but probably not something I'd reach for again when there's Fela et al.
This album has a very good story behind it. It was so nice to learn more about the culture and how music creators reacted to the “Exile”. Music wise, I’ll have to stay true to myself and I personally prefer more well thought out music than jamming music. I could feel the energy, but without checking the story behind, it was a bit difficult for me to get naturally instinctively focused on the music. Still good but not yet a four for me.
I think it’s awesome that this 1,001 list includes music from all over the world. It can be very easy to just focus on US/UK music and it’s good to see representation. I enjoyed listening to this album, but I did find it got a bit repetitive for me. Glad it came across my desk, but probably wouldn’t seek this album out again. I wouldn’t mind listening to more Songhoy Blues, to see how their sound evolved/evolves.
Really enjoyed the mixture of blues, rock, and cultural music. My biggest mistake was listening to this on a flight, so I wasn’t able to look up the translations for the lyrics. Definitely something I’ll have to come back to, but I don’t think it would be able to boost this album to a four.
Groovy, i liked it and it was surprisingly good cause i had never listened to African music
dont know what i was expecting but was super happy with the first half, i wish the rest of the album also had some stronger instrumentals 3.5/5
freakily enjoyed this
Not in my edition of the book! 2015. 3 stars. Intriguing African blues band. Well done of its kind, but the tracks do tend to blur into each other. Not sure I'd listen to it again, but glad I did.
Blues del desierto. Me ha gustado mucho, sobre todo por (1) ser algo diferente a la mayoría de álbumes de esta lista y (2) la historia que hay detrás del álbum. Músicos de Mali que tuvieron que huir por amenazas islamistas en un periodo de conflicto, teniendo que grabar el álbum (oportunamente titulado "Música desde el exilio") en EE. UU. Música relajante, ideal para tener de fondo, llena de armonías vocales preciosas. Aunque precisamente esa cualidad tranquila hace que el álbum en su conjunto se acabe haciendo un poco largo y repetitivo.
Cool sound!
Irganda was a highlight for me. Good stuff
The guitar work on here was unique and interesting. I enjoyed the music but am not generally a fan of group vocals which is most of this album.
This album was fine, and I thought the last 4 or so songs were good and fun to listen to, but as someone that is not a blues fan, generally, I found the first half of the album rather bland. Even though I can definitely recognize the adversity these musicians went through and what this album may mean for their story and where they come from, ultimately, compared to all the other music made in the last 70 years, I do not believe this album belongs on this list. I would much rather hear something more traditional or maybe more rock-inspired that has more edge to it.
Banging Intro track All songs in the first half are very catchy, groovy songs Back half starts to get a bit meandering The melody of the chant during the closing track is so good
Good at times, but not really my music
I find it really hard to rate these international albums. Given off of just vibes honestly this album was great. I loved the use of the main voice with the background “response” voices, even though I couldn’t understand the lyrics the use of the voice as an instrument really good. I loved also the actual instrumentation, it carried a lovely vibe with it I thoroughly enjoyed, especially through the guitar. My complaint however, and it definitely comes from my oblivious and ignorant ear as someone quite far removed from this kind of music generally, is that the whole album kinda sounds the exact same. There isn’t much distinction for me between one song and another and it makes the album feel like it carries on for far too long. It’s a good vibe in the beginning, but by the end it feels old. I definitely did like this album though a lot more than I was expecting and I’m glad I was exposed to it.
Ok, so I liked this album, but I'm going to show my Western bias and not rate it higher than a 3 simply because I don't know what they're saying and can't connect with the music. But, it sounds good, the musicianship is excellent, and I appreciate having heard it. Nice bluesy African stylings and I like the guitar lines. I wouldn't mind hearing it again, but doubt I'd dig deeper into it. Songs that caught my attention: the first three tracks were pretty compelling, particularly on close listen - Soubor, Irganda, and Al Hassidi Terei. But then I kind of drifted. Ai Tchere Bele caught my attention on every listen, and then I found I liked the remaining tracks. 3 feels lazy, but that's what I'm going with.
Pretty great album all around. Not sure I'd listen again but glad to have heard it.
Neat
It was okay but I’m not racing home to put on my songhoy blues
This was cool! Don’t know how much I would revisit but it was good
nothing more "world music" than being from Timbuktu
Goeie groove, leuke kennismaking met deze afrorock. De inspiratie voor deze band is on point en grappig om te lezen dat dan ook ineens Damon Albarn en Julian Casablancas betrokken zijn bij het overvliegen van deze jongen naar Europa om een plaat te maken en shows te spelen. Echter verwacht ik niet deze plaat nog veel vaker op te zetten. 7/10
Irganda was my fave track. Reminds me of Amadou & Miriam.
I love this guys’ energy, but I can’t understand them.
Not special, but enjoyable.
...fine? A combination of African and western music, but kinda lacking interesting sides of either. Nothing horribly offensive or particularly memorable. Might reveal more on further listens, but not particularly driven to listen again.
Very good blues band
was nice
Very fun record, different than my usual listening habits.
I was not expecting to like this album as much as I did. Songhoy Blues did a beautiful job incorporating African traditionalism and deep American southern blues. You could play this anywhere in America with English lyrics and people would never know the difference. Soubour, the opening song, immediately grabs you and pulls you in The song Nick also could’ve been straight outta the Mississippi Delta, while songs like Al Hassidi Terei pulled in more of an authentic African feel. If I had a complaint it’s that autocorrect can’t figure out how to spell these song names and it’s pissing me off. I can definitely say this is one of those 1001 Must Listen to albums, and I am grateful I had the chance.
Random thoughts: * Never heard of this before but I enjoyed it overall. * Cool to hear blues mixed with African music. * I would like to check out the documentary now. * Music can never be stopped!
i get why this is here but musically i didn’t feel very strongly about this album. it was cool to listen to singing in languages other than english every once in a while though.
Some nice covers
Loving the music, the vocals don't always bring it home for me though. Solid 3
its alr. cool back story i kind of hate this site calls anything thats not traditionally western or european sounding it gets called "world music". thats not a genre this genre has a name... probably idk actually know what to call this. dessert blue ig thats what they call it.
***An ok album
I'm not an expert in desert blues by any stretch, but the few albums I've heard of it so far have all sounded good, and this one's no exception.
Perfectly listenable album; I like it better than a lot of the stuff on the list but I suspect that it was included more because of the documentary about the musicians than this being among the most un-missable albums from 2015.
Desert blues! My favorite "new" genre I've discovered this past decade. I'm a big fan of Bombino, Mdou Moctar, and Tinariwen. I somehow never sat down and listened to these guys, though. It's good. And a touching story regarding their formation as, well, exiles. I would't say this is my favorite desert blues album by any stretch, but it's a solid album.
Music's great but exiles suck.
These guys are from Mali, and I appreciate the opportunity to hear some music from Africa. Unfortunately I don’t understand the language; perhaps it would be more enjoyable if I did. The music was good, but not memorable.
As a linguist, I like this a lot, because - quote from the band - "We always try to sing in as many languages as possible. The languages we speak every day are Songhoy, Bambara, French, and English." How many Songhoy language albums are on this list? I bet not a lot! (Although maybe I'm wrong, since I never would have predicted this one, either.) As a non-linguistic listening experience, it's chill & pleasant, but nothing that'll stick with me (even though the band's story is obviously compelling). A 3 with a side of respect. Highlights: 'Irganda', "Petit Metier' , 'Desert Melodie'
Good musicians with an interesting style.
Interesting beat
Was okay, interesting beats. Overall pretty chill.
Neat
This was interesting. Pretty decent tunes.
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.