Lam Toro

It didn’t click with me like I had hoped. Some kinda fun songs in there, but most either didn’t resonate with me or went on too long. It wasn’t *bad* though. I just probably wouldn’t listen to any of it regularly.

Baaba Maal is a talented guitar play and writes some interesting arrangements. There are some interesting varieties in sound, I particularly like the baroque feel of Daande Lenol Towards the end I was getting a bit fatigued and a lot of it was starting to blend together, doesn't help that I have no idea what hes singing so it'll feel more samey because of that Highlights: Daande Lenon, Hamady Boiro

I'm unqualified to evaluate this record, which I found at times pleasant and at others discordant.

I enjoy listening to this - not sure if its good or not by its stylistic standards? Sounds like the guy Peter Gabriel collaborated with.

I kinda liked it, after a bit of a rough start. I’m a sucker for African rhythms.

No clue what he sang about, but a fun album. Some of the songs have a Lionel Richie "All Night Long" vibe, but for the most, a distinct voice.

Un álbum fundamental en cuanto que se trata de la primera vez que un artista africano lanza un álbum de afrobeat teniendo en mente a un público blanco y occidental. Esta vez no se trata de un artista occidental apropiándose de la música de África, como haría Paul Simon en Graceland, sino que se le da voz directamente al artista original. Entonces, ¿por qué le estoy dando peor nota a este álbum que a Graceland? Aunque Lam Toro sea muy bueno, excelentemente producido y entretenido, creo que le falta algo de autenticidad. Un álbum que ha sido seleccionado por el editor de este libro más que nada debido a que su productor, ¡oh sorpresa!, es inglés. Hubiera preferido que se hubiera incluido un álbum de afrobeat completamente producido en África o, al menos, de música tradicional y no tan adaptada a la radio de los 90. De todas formas, es un álbum diferente y merecedor de buena nota.

First time listen. Remember him on LWJ. very good

An interesting listen. I didn't mind it but it started to grow old half-way through. I have a hard time with foreign language artists because I tend to connect more with lyrics than music, and if I don't have any basis in the language I just don't get that solid connection. Nothing against the artist, that's all on me. Well produced, excellent voice quality and control. Was neat to listen to once but not something I'll pull up again.

I enjoyed listening to this, It's vibrant, rhythmic, and full of life. Baaba's voice is captivating, and the music feels rich with tradition and emotion. That said, lacking the language or a real cultural context, I think my ability to truly appreciate everything this album offers is limited. Still, it was an interesting and worthwhile listen.

Pretty good album but it does suffer from its length a little bit. There are some good moments but as it goes on the songs start to all sound the same, especially the calmer ones. High 3.

Enjoyable, but hangs around too long, and I’m unlikely to ever think of this again.

Not my tempo

I enjoyed this album. I'm not much for world music, but I liked the melodies and the singing was well done.

Good album. I don't have much to compare it to, but I enjoyed the whole thing. 3.3/5

This was ok, but I was finding myself not able to focus on it by the middle. It's too self-similar in a genre I don't know well, so I'm not able to differentiate :( 2.75/5

I’m not qualified to rate this, but I enjoyed it. African beats, Senegal language. It’s a 3-star because I just don’t know enough. It’s a good listen though.

Wow, not a pretentious reaction here. There were some really great cuts and I didnt get bored with it. Yela is the only song that id skip. I added Gidelam, Sy Sawande and Minuit to a playlist. Minuit had a guitar solo that sounded straight from Prince (super fast flurries of notes and ultra clean sound)

- moody und weitestgehend entspannt, habe ich so nicht erwartet - könnt man mal wieder hören 3

From the very first track of this album, I was instantly reminded of the guitar work and grooves that I come to love from Ali and Vieux Farka Touré who are both Malian artists I discovered through their collab with Khruangbin. Baaba Maal has a unique quality different from Malian soundscapes. The Tourés have a sound that is more bluesy-infused-soul of the Sahel region of Africa, whereas Baaba Maal’s music featured more percussions that came from all parts of the world. I heard moments of Caribbean soca influenced and even Baila - which is music from my dad’s country Sri Lanka. His vocals on this album were interesting, in some of the tracks his voice felt like a call to a spirit which felt ethereal yet bold like in the tracks “Daande Lenol” and “Daniibe”. The production of this album combines the sounds of Fulani with a mix of reggae and pop. Listening to this album felt like I was in the Fulani region experiencing the vast culture surrounding it, while simultaneously connecting back to me as it celebrated sounds from all over the world. Lam Toro also made me reflect on the region it was created in, Senegal 🇸🇳, and how West African heritage continues to ripple across genres. From the traditional Fulani melodies in his music to the raw, trap energy of Sheck Wes, a Senegalese-American rapper I first heard on “Mo Bamba”. Though they’re worlds apart sonically, both artists carry the imprint of their roots that I found personal and profound in their own right. Overall I found this album to be an international treat. To me this is the first album that didn’t come from America or Europe which pleasantly surprised me that the generator included albums all over the world. I’m looking forward to travelling sonically though this challenge. I enjoyed it for what it was, not entirely sure it would be a part of my future rotation but there are songs I will definitely come back to. Standout Tracks: “Daande Lenol”, “Daniibe” and “Gidelam”

surprised myself with how much i enjoyed this album! its not like anything I've ever listened to before, and I wouldn't be familiar at all with sengalese music. i found it really beautiful to listen to a culture of music so (assumedly) different to my own, only to hit lilts of what i'd recognise as Irish trad sounds in the opening track. however, in saying that, i didn't love the cheesy synth in olel or lem gi, it made me feel like I was on a cruise ship. this would be a 4 star album without the cheesy synth. particular shout outs to: - yela - hamady boiro - sy sawande didn't like: - daniibe (but not strongly dislike) - olel songs saved: 0/11 would I listen again: yes

Maal creates music that links ancient Fulani traditions with global sounds, achieving a spiritual resonance that speaks to both cultural roots and the impact of African music on the world.

As always, I love exposure to new world music, never would have found this otherwise.

Didn't understand a bit of it, but it was fairly good listen.

No lo conocía, resulta bastante árido y demasiado etnico.

This was an interesting album, definitely can't say that it is something that I listen to very often, but it was enjoyable having it in the background. The typical African music element in it was interesting to hear, but I am not sure whether I would listen to this again.

3 out of 5. I liked this one better than Djam Leelii.

I'll probably never return to this but i still enjoyed it. its cool that's something this foreign, at least to my canadian ass, is on this list mostly comprised of albums from western and European musicians. I know damn well that this is the first (and probably the last) Senegalese album that myself and people most the people on this website have ever heard. this worth hearing, expand your horizons idk dude he works on the black panther soundtrack wtf thats so cool. too bad it was for the shitty sequel but idc its still cool

Fun change of pace

This was fine, nothing I'd ever go out of my way to listen to.

i just learned the n in nba stands for national!

Where are the drop D power chords?? I dig it anyways 😊 Very calming. This gets me in the mood for a David Attenborough documentary

More enjoyable than expected. Amazing African polyrhythms throughout.

Nice sounding album unsure of its overall greatness.

Haunting vocals and lovely, melodic guitar work.

Not really a fan of this album, but I liked the guitar solo at the end and that took this one to 3 stars.

This album sounds exactly like I imagined it would, so I guess that means it's pretty typical and basic for what a world African album sounds like to me. It's not bad, and it was good while I was listening to it, but it doesn't really make me want to come back to it.

Although it’s outside of my comfort zone I quite like this album. It’s very similar to other music on the list originating from Africa so my knowledge of such musical compositions and the artists making it is so limited you could put these albums side by side and I would not discern any major difference. My problem of course but I”m not enticed enough to research and listen more closely. Always happy to hear this stuff as a change especially when artists such as Peter Gabriel and Paul Simon incorporate it into their music, when African and other ‘world music’ really hit the spot. 3/5 17/4/25

This made me want to find a little lion cub, put some red jam on his forehead and hold him up high over price rock. Offensive? Allow me to double down with a little… NANTS INGONYAMA BAGITHI BABA!!! I struggle with this. It was an interesting listen and outside of my norm. Not something I’ll put on very often and the cynical part of me feels like this is something some ‘hip dude’ would put on to show how cool and cultured he is. 2.75

Def the best Senegalese album I've ever listened to! Interesting listen with many enjoyable tracks, although would have been well-served to cut 15-20 minutes from the runtime. I was digging the drums that reminded me of the Black Panther score and then only later found out he was involved in both movies! Neat! 2.75/5

surprisingly decent

Nice vibes.

It was ok

Interesting. Some cool beats and rhythms. Outside of yela, wish I knew what he was singing about.

Very good african record, with pop sensibilites that make it accesssible to a more general audience. One thing this book does well is try to establish a canon for regional music albums such as this, although there could me even more of them here. Maybe they should do a whole 1001 book on so-called "world music" records. Key tracks: Toro (The Bird)

3/5

01) Yela - 6,0 02) Toro - 6,0 03) Daande Leňol - 7,5 04) Hamady Boiro - 6,5 05) Daniibe - 6,5 06) Gidelam - 6,5 07) Olel - 6,0 08) Sy Sawande - 6,5 09) Ndelorel - 6,0 10) Lem Gi - 6,0 11) Minuit - 6,0 TOTAL: 6,32 (63/100) Current ranking: 371/500 500. Am I halfway there? This album is nothing special, after a few songs it becomes monotonous and boring. "Rumours" by Fleetwood Mac is still my number 1.

thought it was cool but not really up my alley

Vibey listen but not really memorable

i enjoy it but get nothing from it

Second half very interesting. Ok

Senegalese music sung in Pulaar. Nothing special.

Never heard of this man but holy can I see the talent. Not an everyday listen.

Not a type of music I'm familiar with but I enjoyed it although some songs were grating.

It's obvious that this list would have artists that don't belong to the typical places and genres one thinks of when it comes to genres, you know, the US, Canada, UK, Western Europe, Japan, etc. and only makes them more interesting for that simple novelty even if the music is nothing to write home about. That's not to say Lam Toro is a boring album or not worth being in the list, far from it I do think it's a pleasant album that in all its rhythms and melodies it feels more familiar to me because a lot of them are basically what I would have heard as a child when listening to Colombian folk or something of the sort which was heavily influenced by African music (sometimes by way of Caribbean music, sometimes not). It suddenly makes an album that maybe for some would be this completely different experience something that feels more comforting to listen to because it reminds me of that stuff I would hear in the background at home or taught about in class. I think if something does trip up on my enjoyment of this album is simply the way some songs include some 80s production, nothing terrible or that i haven't heard of before but it does feel out of place when the type of cheesy synths and fretless bass play while Baaba's singing so nicely, it feels like a distraction for what's otherwise a really nice album and something that I hope I can get to listen to more.

Really enjoyed despite not understanding which is normally a big deal to me.

Not really my cup of tea but certainly appreciate the talent. 5/10.

I was unsure what to expect, I liked the voice and style. But, no really my thing over a whole album, one track now and again maybe.

bouncy, uplifting

I can’t understand it, but it’s a cool sound. I don’t know how this is relevant to Senegal, but I hope they like it over there.

I was definitely groovin along to this while stuck in traffic (as is so often then way). My highlight is the group/choral vocals on Yela. Album cover: (B)

Certainly not a style of music I listen to super frequently. As a person that really loves good lyrics, having the lyrics in a language I can't understand does make it a little harder for me to appreciate. That said, cool rhythms and nice to work to. Also Baaba Maal is a sick name.

I think I enjoyed this one a little more than Djam Leelii (though that one was more than a hundred albums ago and I didn't go back to relisten to confirm).

See my review of his other album from 4 days ago. I liked this a little better. 3.5.

I’m not qualified to judge this . Everything sounds like Felling Hot Hot Hot.

Not enough guitar - I especially like Weest African guitar and Baaba Maal should have fit that nicely, but doesn't - too loud, too singy, not bluesy enough.

Pleasant enough, wish I knew what he was singing about. 3*

I actually gave this two listens in a row. I tried to think of his singing as an instrument as opposed to a language I did not know. The songs varied a lot, which was pretty cool. I was hoping for a bigger finish to "Lem Gi," as the song went on for a bit. But nope, fade out instead. I enjoyed it, although there were a few songs that sounded dated in the instrumentation. You can hear the joy in his voice, particularly in songs like "Olel". Top songs: "Olel," "Ndelorel," "Yela"

I had a similar reaction as I did to Baaba Maal's album with Mansour Seck, minus a wicked opening song with dueling guitars. Melodic with some great beats, great energy, and great tempo. Some songs better than others, but overall glad to be exposed to this album and a sound I wouldn't otherwise listen to. I'm not necessarily going to seek out more or put this on all the time, but I know where to turn if I ever need African or Worldbeat music.

I enjoyed this album, even if I had no clue what he was singing. Decent variety of styles, although it was a little long. The end of Sy Sawande seemed like a perfect ending to the album...and then there were three more songs. Hamady Boiro caught my attention each time I listened so I'll call that a favorite track. I'd call the album a 3.5 but, even though I wouldn't mind listening again, I don't think I can bump it to a 4. Ready to move on.

The music is pleasant enough, but I do not have enough of a world music vocabulary to really evaluate it. It is in cases like this that I rely on the inclusion on the list and the reviews on wikipedia to shape my view.

Beautiful music.

Enjoyed the variety.

Not my thing

For a world album - it was a solid offering.

Instruments are great but the singing is a bit grating.

Cool

Another album that is great for background music.

I would lying if i said I listen to a lot of world music I do have a few that I like though. I appreciate the difference sounds and different beats. This is pretty good. I’m big on drumming on world music and this one doesn’t have as much as I’d like. Some synth sounds are dated b My favourites: Diniibe. Gidalem

Ended up being surprisingly easy to work to (good rhythm and I didn't understand a word). I don't think I'd play this for other purposes.

Tämä on ihan nätti. Tuttuja teemoja, joita kehitellään omaan soittoon sopivaksi. Uhkasi jäädä ”aika kiva” -tasolle, mutta vika biisi Minuit yllätti! Herätti huomion, hymyilytti. Vähän vajaa kolme.

It’s ok. Not my typical listening.

The music is pleasant enough, but I do not have enough of a world music vocabulary to really evaluate it. It is in cases like this that I rely on the inclusion on the list and the reviews on wikipedia to shape my view.

It was pretty interesting. Would not have listened to it. It reminded me that this guy recorded with Mumford & Sons and I like that song. I don’t know, hard to have an opinion for something other than “yeah I listened” Didn’t hate it though.

I'm not going going to pretend like I'm some well cultured music efficiencionado - I'm not. I'm a straight white dude from the West, so maybe I'm lacking the cultural ties to enjoy this record. I don't like this very much, but only because I don't understand the singing, and I really don't like that type of vocals. The instrumentals were great, and I couldn't resist a smirk each time I heard the slap of that twangy bass, which is really what redeems this to a 3.

Not sure what bro was saying but it sounded like he was spitting some fucking heat in a few parts there. Really not too much to say, I suppose the global score feels kinda harsh

This probably goes hard as fuck if you speak Senegalese, unfortunately I am an ignorant whitey and don’t get much out of this genre except the vocals, which I can’t understand.

Some albums have a verbose wikipedia page bloviating about their influence on music/the world. Some albums have a short page where the only sentence in "Reception" or "Legacy" is that it was included in this book. This album does not have a wikipedia page. Usually my favourite part of listening to albums in this project is reading the background of the album, the history of the artist up to that point and how it all came together. From what I can gather, Toro collaborated with Eno and has enjoyed success working as a musician in the English music scene, I don't imagine that this would have ever been included here if he had not worked with Eno. Regardless of why this album was chosen, it was a novel listen. I think that African artists in general are very underrepresented in musical discourse (shoutout Afous d'Afous, cool as fuck Touareg blues/rock group from the Algerian Sahara). The production here interferes a bit with what I think the artist's vision was as I think some of the synth heavy production on songs like Gidelam and Olel are a bit oil and water with the vocals and some of the instrumentation. Overall, a fun listen but I don't see myself coming back to this. This album to me sounds like songs you would hear on the PA at Nandos but in this case I would try to shazam the music rather than continue to demolish a half chicken (mild because I am weak) and chips. Highlights: Daande Lenol, Hamady Boiro, Sy Sawande

It's completely different than what I normally listen to, but it's squarely in what I would call "World" music. Which is to mean that it's got some cool percussion, some African-style chanting/singing, and some bouncy guitars. It's a fun listen, because it's new (and it's not 70s rock), but it's not earth shattering. I liked it in the sense that it was pleasant to listen to, and it had me bouncing my leg, but I didn't like it enough to remember the name of it tomorrow.

This was definitely different, but I'm not sure it was all that interesting.

Pas grand chose à dire. Pas vraiment mon style, mais c'est normal, c'est pas du tout une musique que je serais allé écouter par moi-même. 2,5 arrondi au-dessus tout de même, je suis sûr que je pourrais plus l'apprécier en le réécoutant.

divertidíssimo e inesperadamente groovado. achei bem bacana. não sei se volto a escutar não, mas achei massa demais

African instruments mixed in electro-rock

Kinda groovy to listen to. Always like hearing new (to me) stuff. Not my jam though.

Ok

It's a fun, upbeat album but I dont see myself coming back to it again...ever

The great thing about this list is discovering new types of music. African music is very underrepresented and what little there is suffers in the vacuum of the Touré name. I don't know enough to give a fair critique of this album, but it is pleasant enough to listen to and something I will definitely add to my que for a revisit. 3.5/5

Love the guitar playing and soul but his story is better than the music in my opinion, still awesome though.

At first I was like wow! But then it got too monotonous until it started to improve and get more interesting towards the end. I have never heard about this artist before, so once again this list proved it's existence for bringing me new experiences.

Afro-beat? I'm in. There's a curious touch to this--half percussion, half vocal. Neither dominates. What is he singing? Don't know, don't care. There's a haunting, pensive edge that reels me in.

This is perfect music for a lazy Sunday afternoon, when you’re not feeling particularly with it. It washes over you in waves, soothing to the soul.

I guess this was good. Hard for me to tell. I enjoyed it to a point, but it was more of an exercise in patience than me enjoying the music.

Quite liked a few of these songs, some interesting beats and guitar bits. In general it faded into the background a bit but Baaba sounds like an interesting guy and I reckon it would be quality live.

Not really sure how to rate this. I enjoyed the vibe though.

A good vibe and beat to the music and though I'm not that familiar with music from that part of the world, I can appreciate it for what it is. No sure, if I love the dated "modernization" to the traditional sound, but it was enjoyable enough to listen twice. I'll listen to more of his records before I pass judgement.

It was really good and i have not know anything about the musician or any songs but they were good

good musicianship but i did not groove to it

Well this was certainly interesting. While it's not something I would generally listen to, or will again, I can appreciate this is well done.

It would have been nicer to have a couple more of this sort of style of album on this list. I wouldn't say it is mind blowing, but it is interesting and different. I like that is from Senegal and not another generic britpop album.

There were a couple of decent ones in here but the voice was a bit overpowering.

Pretty cool actually. Nice rhythms would put it on again.

Its a cool album. Not the same thing I listen to everyday so a good change. Well produced, wish I would understand but musoc is beautiful and harmonies are great. Not for my playlist but I feel it is a great album maybe a little too popish

I liked it for work, but I wouldn't sit to listen to it

Nothing particular novel despite being a genre I haven't heard previously.

LAMM ok ich find so gsang immer sehr cool aber s erste lied het mich nöd mega gecatched toro findi denn wieder sehr cool, über die cool perkussion und sis funny lalalalalalaaaallala hamady boiro isch zumindest musikalisch rechr "westlich" hmm ich finds na cooli musig aber es lauft eifach chli iwie minuit iscb na en coole schluss zum album jjjoooooooo es isch cool aber nöd meh, han vlt währendem butze au z wenig druff gachtet?

Took a while to grow on me but I liked the sparse, atmospheric sound. No idea on the lyrics but that meant the vocals became more like another instrument, which worked well. May even come back to this in the future. 3/5 for now

The kinda music that plays in an adventure movie when they go to a hot country in the Middle East

Cool but no idea what to do with it.

Cool sound, not something I usually listen to, would most likely enjoy more if one knew the language but it's still good!

weird! african!

Qua muziek ligt dit niet enkel buiten mijn comfortzone, het ligt zo ver van mijn comfortzone dat je het niet eens meer ziet. De "white man's burden" denk ik maar dan, ook al is het als zelfverklaarde progressieve moeilijk toe te geven. Baaba Maal kende ik al, maar enkel en alleen omdat hij als feature stond op een album van Mumford & Sons. Best wel een toffe muziek. Maar toch is dit te ver buiten mijn Westerse rocksmaak. 2.5

Happy sounding, up-beat tunes, though I didn't understand a word so the lyrics could be really offensive for all I know. Anyway, I dig the vibe and wouldn't be annoyed if this happened to be playing in any lift (i.e. elevator) in which I happened to be travelling.

An interesting listen. Definitively not my normal listen, but was pretty good background music to start my day.

If it wasn't for this 'challenge' I would likely never have listened to this album. Though, I'm not sure that listening to it changed my life in any noticeable way, I did enjoy the hour I had with it. Single Serving Friend, as Tyler Durden may have said. It wasn't by any stretch the imagination a bad album, and I did enjoy it, but I also found it very hard to listen to an hour of vocals in a language I didn't know. so I'm going to give it a 2.5, and round it up to 3.

delicious lamb toro, my favourite

Det her er virkelig ikke en type musik jeg har hørt meget af. Grundstrukturen er meget rytmisk, mange meget gentagende riffs på hvad der virker som en blanding af vestlige og senegalesiske instrumenter. Det er ikke svært at høre på, men ikke lige min stil. MEN den får et ekstra point for at være et virkelig, virkelig fedt indspark på denne liste. Generelt er UK og USA SÅÅ overrepræsenteret, så det er dejligt at blive præsenteret for noget fra resten af verdenen.

Interesting sound with a mix of African and Islamic world influences

I wish I'm musically nerd enough to be interested in all the quirky stuff of this album.

I learned 3 things from this album. 1 'Lalala' is universal as a non-lexical vocable. 2 Baaba loves him some reverb. 3 Pulaar is one of 14 official languages in Senegal, and is the most a laaden.

I honestly didn't enjoy this, but I also have no frame of reference for the intentions. I have very little idea of the music scene this comes from, and I don't understand the language. There's a lot of very interesting things going on, but I'm out of my depth with this one.

Cooler erfrischender Sound aus Senegal. Aber einmal ist dann auch gut und die Platte ist gehört.

He has a distinct sound - strange how the world seems less open to music like this now. Daniibe my favourite track

I liked this a lot. Don't know much about the music but sounded good. 3.5

This was pretty good. I liked his voice, but probably wouldn't listen again

I've been left with 0 lasting impressions

I wish more of the album was like "Olel"

When it comes to African-World Beat, I don’t have a context to judge the quality. I will only say I liked this and he has an amazing voice that speaks from his soul. I felt a whole lot better thinking this sounded like Wakanda when I found out he helped develop the score for Black Panther. This was good and my ranking is only because it feels right. I apologize if the ranking is lower than it should be. Sometimes a Merlot can taste like Welches when you’re used to drinking Welches.

I continue to explore African music and this is a nice addition to my knowledge and expanding tastes. While this isn't up there with Fela Kuti it is still pretty damn good. I'm going to need several listens to see which tracks stick with me. However, if you have not already heard it, check out Baaba's collab with Mumford and Sons called "There Will Be Time". That is an amazing song!

Mal was anderes, aber doch sehr gleich klingend die Songs.

schwer zu beurteilen

ja klingt nett, aber nicht so in der musik drin, also klingt alles recht ähnlich

Rating: 6/10 Pretty decent, but probably won't remember this. Liked the African rhythms with folk instrumentation.

Vibey

Hier en daar leuke maar ook taaie momenten. Ik weet er te weinig van, kan het niet beoordelen. 3

Not the first African album on this list. Unfortunately this one is only suitable for background music. Nothing irritating but also nothing interresting about it.

This might be my first time ever willingly listening to worldbeat music. Pretty interesting getting a taste of traditional music (in this case, originating from Senegal and Pulaar-speaking regions) mixed with pop. Despite not being able to comprehend the Pulaar language, the rhythms are pretty soothing and the tracks feature a different mix of musical styles & instrumentation all throughout. The instrumentation definitely sounds of its time too (which isn't necessarily a bad thing, the 90's were an eclectic time for music in my opinion). Some tracks dragged on a bit too long for my liking, though.

I found this album very relaxing and I would probably throw it on again!

Meh. I liked the music, not the vocals so much.

nice enough.

That was really enjoyable! Will need to listen again to appreciate it fully. I hope it doesn’t matter that I don’t know what he’s singing about. I’m sure it’s nothing bad!

I liked this. It's not my normal go-to music, but it's very good. It has great understated guitar playing and, combined with his stirring vocals, gives this an uplifting vibe. It might even get a second listen sometime in the future. A well deserved 3 stars.

Good album and great to see this list not have white british men represented for once. Good composition and production, worth a listen. 3/5

Taking me out of my listening comfort zone here. I listened to the whole album and didn't have a problem with it. I personally was hoping for some grooves, but that's just not what his music has to offer it seems. I wouldn't normally seek anything like this out and Lam Toro didn't convert me, but I'm glad I listened

Quite mid

Enjoyable vibes but outside of my world. 90's West African music

I appreciate the vibes being emitted in the studio today

This was really good stuff but not rating it too high because I won't be coming back to it later

This was an interesting listen, although I am not into world music that much it was still fun to follow along. I definitely like some of the funkier bits. "Hamady Boiro" was my favorite track.

Hoy toca directamente una rareza: por su artista, por su origen, por su género. Me encanta cuando éste reto me sorprende con músicas fuera de la norma. Disco tranca, que atrapa con su exotismo y simpleza a cualquier oyente que desconozca tanto el idioma como la cultura senegalesa.

Mal was nicht amerikanisches oder europäisches, aber richtig umwerfend wars nicht.

Plus one for not being British, but nothing that blew me away

Ok “Minuit” got me

Lam Toro is a studio album by Baaba Maal, originally released in 1991. Baaba Maal is a Senegalese singer and guitarist. I only know a little bit about African guitar, primarily about Tuareg and other Sahara-based music. I was interested to delve into Maal's style of Senegalese music. I was somewhat disappointed by this album. I mean, the songs themselves are alright, some of them are pretty good. I just could not get into the production. This thing is massively overproduced. I think Maal would've benefitted from a more stripped-down production style that highlighted his voice and guitar playing more, like Imarhan does. There's just too much unnecessary cheese added here, like synth effects and slick bass lines. It just makes the record seem dated. Take that away, and this album becomes much better.

Nothing against our good buddy Lam, but, seeing as I don't know what he's singing about, I am having a hard time getting into the groove! One thing I don't understand is the complaining people have done regarding the "simple" production, bad synth sounds et al... I say; what-ev's! 3 Stars just to bat par!

A decent listen with some fairly enchanting cuts and some vaguely haunting and pleasingly and lightly swinging ones too. And it gets better as it goes along. But as with much world music, not a great deal sticks or obtains purchase. The vocals might be varied a bit more. So it’s interesting but only somewhat. Also some unfortunate synth choices make for a dated sound. Best tracks: “Sy Sawande” and “Lem Gi.”

7/10. Pleasant experience. This style of music is really great. Not as vibrant as Fela Kuti's music, but it's great!!! :)

This is a really good album with an interesting mix of African music with more western styles.

Hard to evaluate, but interesting

A language barrier is always going to make connecting with music harder. Lyrics are a large part of what draws people in and helps them relate to the music or artist. But I try to not let that affect the listening experience too much. I’ve heard plenty of music in foreign languages. The problem is pretty much all world music is in a foreign language. It’s definitely been one of the most consistent genres for me. But that’s because it’s been consistently very middle of the road and average for me. I don’t love it or hate it, minus a few exceptions. I’m not sure how the name Baaba Maal didn’t jump out to me, since exactly a week ago I heard his collaboration with Mansour Seck. And the only reason I remembered who he is was because when I put the first song on, his voice sounded really familiar. I looked it up, and found out he had done work for both of the Black Panther soundtracks with Ludwig Göransson. That realization, and listening to this album made me come to the conclusion that Baaba does actually have an amazing voice. It must not have come through on that previous album as clear, because I barely remember him being apart of it. This is easily the most interesting and enjoyable piece of world music I’ve heard on the list so far. As I mentioned previously, his voice really does shine through. What you hear instrumental wise is a mix between the more traditional Senegalese music like I heard on that other album, but still mixed in modern electric guitars, and something that deviates much farther away from that. The best way I can describe is like it has a hint of 80s cheesiness. There are some synths and horn parts here and there. But they sound cheap, and just don’t fit that Central African sound, and especially not Baaba’s voice as well. It was the first time where I would actually rather hear the former over the latter. And since a good portion of this is made up of those songs, it loses a lot of appeal for me. I don’t know, maybe one day I will find a world album that really blows me away. Rating: 5/10

Took me a while to get into it, being that it is in a different language and I'm not too familiar with the genre, but I liked it. Groovy. Shout out to the track 'Sy Sawande' which helped me vibe with the album a bit more.

Kind of fun to listen to something totally out of my wheelhouse. I could see adding a song or 2 to my playlist

Fun listen

Upbeat, fun, and happy! I don't speak the language, so I can't say what they were singing about, but it sounded uplifting and improved my day, and it sounded like the performers enjoyed it too. So there's nothing not to like!

That was a unique and interesting listen. The individual tracks were good but resulted in an o.k. album experience. 3/5.

As other reviews have called out, the fake horns were a little detracting, but I did like the rhythmic variety between tracks.

An outlier from the normal and usual stuff on this list. I had never heard of Baaba Maal but appreciate his inclusion. This album was great, and was a very pleasant listen on a lazy weekend morning.

‘92, more soul than ill ever have in one album

Altid rart med noget opbrud, lyder ikke som ret meget vi har haft indtil nu. Jeg havde nok ikke behøvet alle de 80'er syntheziser trompeter

Interesting alnum. Not generally my style

Bopping in the sun but it didn't grab me

Good range from Baaba Maal.

Ok sound. Seems like what I would expect from the genre

Quando fui ouvir este álbum não esperava por um álbum tão diferente. Todas músicas puramente africanas com muito poucos traços de instrumentação mais comuns. Torna-se um pouco repetitivo para alguém que não esteja culturalmente inserido. Mas este é um álbum que representa algo que eu respeito, manter a sua própria cultura. No geral tem alguma graça, mas cansa por ser tão diferente, a melhor música foi o Danibee. Por representar algo que eu respeito atribuo um 5 ao álbum. Nota: 5/10 21/05/2024

Very 80s Afrobeats, sounds like something Paul Simon would listen to then decide to do Graceland

Ihan mielenkiintoinen levy kyl. Jonkinlaista afrikkalaista musiikkia, mutta suht modernia. Aika iloista kamaa. Ja kesäistä. Ja rantasta. Tosi monipuolista ja vijassa kappaleessa sähkökitara soolokin. Parhaat: Yela, Daniibe, Minuit.

Coole afrikanische Klänge

I was skeptical at first but I’ll be damned if I wasn’t dancing after a few songs.

This was a fun album, some nice rhythms snd vocals

It's good. I like Baaba Maal, and with this being his first solo work, it's more significant in his discography. But even so, it's still just 3 stars. I won't feel the need to revisit this. It was good to hear once, but I'm content with once.

So much great music around the world. This feels experimental and new simultaneously

cool

A very pleasant discovery, but there were stretches where it faded into the background for me.

Incredibly pleasant listen - feels like the kind of surprise at a music festival that would be very welcome.

I don't think primitive is the right word in the case of this album. It's definitely something odd and not what you expect. But for a 1992 African modern/folk music it's pretty good. 3.5/5.

3 Ok.

This was some fine background noise today. While I didn't understand the lyrics, I would have liked to see an interpretation of what was being sung about in Segalese.

African music, lots of bongos. I thought some songs were too long. Stand-out: Daande Lenol

Awesome world sounds on this one. Pretty easy to listen to. Some songs feel funky and some feel pretty tropical. I little hard to fully connect to it due to the language barrier but still something I could appreciate.

This one was fun! It was 100% what I imagined it to be. Cool drums, cool keys, and really fun guitar. Probably won't revisit, but fun experience!

Charming sound, very unconventional, and sometimes a bit sloppy, but full of raw talent. Very cool grooves and great mesh between the instruments, lots of them with cool sounds rarely heard in Western music, but still with a Western feel to the structure of the songs. Definitely a neat world music feel and fun to listen to, but not really my thing. A solid three stars.

Catchy moments, and interesting instrumentation.

wasn't hugely my kind of thing and I'm not sure I 100% "got it" but I did like it. 2.8.

My second album from him on this list. I think I liked Djam Leelii a little better. This one includes some of the cheesy 90s synths that I'm not usually a fan of and they sort of take me out of it a bit. I love the vocals though, great singning. I only wish I knew what he was saying. After this album I can say that I am a Baaba Maal fan. His music isn't something that I would put on to actively listen to but I would definitely play this around the house or while working or something. I'll give this one another 3/5.

Favourites: daniibe, lem gi. Overall enjoyable but a little too long. The drums were my favourite part of most songs. I like that I had a chance to listen to a genre I normally wouldn't listen to. 3/5

I mean like it was ok, not something I would've liked to listen to for an hour though. Wasn't unenjoyable, just went on for too long for my tastes. He has a nice voice and the instrumentals were nice, the album was chill. 3/5.

feel like a location scout reviewing this: not something I would listen to regularly but rather use strategically for atmosphere or in a particular setting.

Very interesting, haven’t listened to much of this kind of music before. Some pretty awesome tracks

I like it. I'm not very familiar with this style of music. Couldn't keep my attention all the way to the end, like most albums really. I liked it better than his other album on the list. Favorite song: Hamady Boiro

2.5

Ritmos africanos. Un poco rollo. Pero venga, ni fu ni fa por salirse de los estilos trillados.

Senegalese music. Termina mejor que empieza.

💖 hamady boiro 🗣️ 6️⃣

I couldn't get into this album. I started listening to it three different times but never got more than a few songs in before my brain found better activities. Then, when I started the album again, I didn't remember any of the tracks that I had listened to in the previous 48 hrs. Not bad, but oh so forgettable.

I expected to hate this but not at all. Mellifluous gentle African. funky.

Very unique. The first album I’m sure I never would have listened to without this list!

Wouldnt have listen to without 1001 albums but is a nice chill complete album

toinen baaba productions. senegalin supermies, tästä tykkäsin paljon vähemmän. välillä laittaa niin h***an mahtavia perkussioni/bassoilu elementtejä että joutuu polvilleen palvomaan afrikkalaista.. ei kuitenkaan pysy konsistenssi ja monotonisuus tulee tunnin aikana ilmiselväksi, tylsiä syntikoita tai antiknopfleresque kitaratyöskentelyä. en piittaa vokaaleista, välillä liian loisteikasta instrumentaaliin verrattuna, tonal difference smh... varmaan uskomaton kirjallisuus, mutta ei jaksa kääntää.. GOOGLATKAA PORTAL RADIO SONG JA SITTEN KUUNNELKAA LEM GI BIISI TÄSTÄ ALBUMISTA.... ANOTHER WESTERN KUSIAIVO STEALING AFRICAN MELODY!!!!!! yela

I found this interesting but not compelling. I'm glad the 1001 included it, as it's really different from anything else I've listened to recently.

It’s OK. Not really my thing but I’m glad I was exposed to it.

It's fine.

Pretty good album, much less popular than others on this list (go figure). Music was fun and sometimes funky, but I felt I was missing something not understanding the lyrics. It was a little hard to connect with these songs, but I liked listening to them. 3.5

Cool vibe

First really international record. Just couldn't connect to it at all. Definatley can hear western influences here certain bluesy grooves, certain Caribbean reggae vibes. The closing song was the standout here. Made it a 3 star album. Nice guitar solo.

I enjoyed this quite a bit but likely wouldn’t put it in regular rotation.

Nr. 147/1001 Yela 3/5 Toro 3/5 Daande Lenol 3/5 Hamady Boiro 4/5 Daniibe 3/5 Gidelam 3/5 Olel 3/5 Sy Sawande 3/5 Ndelorel 3/5 Lem Gi 3/5 Minuit 3/5 Average: 3,09 Really fun and interesting listen. Nice mixture of traditional african music with other genres.

Senegalese music. Termina mejor que empieza.

a unique fusion of world music and other elements from other genres makes for a supper special litsen.

I liked this album. My first time listening to African kind of music. The instrumental in the background gave a real wierd vibe to it but it was a good peaceful one. Even the vocals although I can’t understand him they add to the mystique feeling. Id rate this on the higher end of the 3 star album as some of the songs I just couldn’t get into but I’d say half of them I liked. I don’t know if I’d actively listen to them again but if they came on I wouldn’t complain

Cool sound! I enjoy listening to albums not in English l.

The singing is not easy to digest, but after some listening some pearls reveal themselves. I loved in particular Sy Sawande.

I guess it’s good? I did enjoy listening to it, but it is not very likely that I would choose to listen to it again.

Something really relaxing about this kind of music to me, but I've also heard better I guess? It's a solid 3.5 though, definitely enjoyable.

Some jammin tunes

yo what the fuck this is sick. Was not expecting this type of thing to be on here. Based off of vibes this thing is awesome. Very hard for me to dislike, despite obviously not knowing a word of what is being said. Fav songs: - Hamady Boiro

I personally like Afro-centric beats. I knew of it from before Paul Simon brought it mainstream in "Graceland." There is something raw and emotional in it that makes it timeless and peaceful. I did struggle a bit with the language barrier in some songs, because in some the lyrics seemed so important. But otherwise I don't think it matters as you let the music in.

Enjoyable listen

Yela - 8/10 Toro - 8/10 Daande Lenol - 7.5/10 Hamady Boiro - 7/10 Daniibe - 6.5/10 Gidelam - 7.5/10 Olel - 7/10 Sy Sawande - 7/10 Ndelorel - 7.5/10 Lem Gi - 6.5/10 Minuit - 7.5/10 TOTAL - 82/110

Not bad

3.5 - Not something I'd actively seek out again but it made for a nice hour of listening. I especially love the djembe sounds and, of course, Baaba Maal's amazing tenor. The cheesier synthesizer sounds somehow add to the charm. A couple of tracks towards the end find the whole ensemble really jelling - "Ndelorel" and "Lem Gi."

Nice to listen to. I heard English folk in the guitars, and 90's synth stuff. Unusual to hear this in a different musical context.

It's nice to have some different music, although this album did become a little repetitive.

Some great rhythms and melodies, but it lost my attention eventually. Nothing to knock specifically, maybe just not the vibe I was looking for at the time. Fave track: Yela

Música tribal africana pero con instrumentación y arreglos contemporáneos (de hecho el disco es del '92). La calidad es buena pero no es mi tipo de escucha, safa para un rato o el estudio.

this was an interesting one. i'm not the hugest world music person, but i definitely keep my mind open. language barriers don't usually dissuade me, and it was the case here. this album was not mind blowing to me, but had some really interesting moments. at times, it kind of felt a little new-wave-y??? which was cool, but otherwise nothing that stood out above anything else I've heard from the continent of Africa so far in this project.

Pretty cool! Loads of fun grooves and I really liked the prominent talking drum runs in Lem Gi

Nice to see music from other continents; the album is nice but not overstanding

Obviously a great musician, but not my vibe

It was cool, probably won’t listen to this album at length again though

A F R I C A This music feels good, great for chopping a bunch of tomatoes. Obviously, unsure what's being said, but you can feel a general sense of goodwill, a positive sentiment from the lyrics, and that's gotta be good for us, right? LA LA LIIII LA LA LAH LA LA LA LI LAHHH

This is what the list is best for - I would’ve never listened to this otherwise. Opening song was crazy

This was enjoyable. Incredible voice. Strikes me the production was a bit westernised and synthetic. But I enjoyed the discovery

Mjög þægilegt áhlustunar. Þarf að skoða þennan artista betur.

interesting music genre

I was transported to another world when listening to the album.

Welp, I don't speak the language, so I can't evaluate the lyrics (except for the final track, "Hamady Bogle," which is so-so and kind of silly). But musically, it's not bad. Another album that just fades into the background.

Giving some fun vibes. 3.

This album didn't make me feel one way or the other. Which, maybe I should rethink my rating scale because music should bring out emotions, even if that emotion is hatred.

This may be a good music. Personally I just don’t get it’s traditional rhythms. For me it was a bit boring.

Much better than I was led to believe by the reviews. Enjoyed the sound and the vibe.

To be honest, I’m not that impressed. I can jam to this for the most part, but it’s not all too innovative. Lots of rehashing here. Production is not top tier either. Nothing atrocious about it, but certainly nothing to write home about. 3/5

This is some beautiful and compelling work. Love it when this project brings me into cultures, styles, and places where I would not likely think to venture on my own.

Great voice. Nice sound. I enjoyed it.

I liked this. I'm going to have to revisit it during the summer though. I think it will hit better when there isn't snow on the ground 3.5/5

2 certified total bangers and the rest is a bit of all sorts. Hard to focus as one track is great then the next is total madness. 2.8

Powerful griot-style vocals and an array of Senegalese instruments like djembes, talking drums, fula flute and kora paired with nylon-string classical guitars, electric bass, full drum kits, the cheesiest keyboard sounds, epic guitar shredding and high-tech production techniques to create a pulsating polyrhythmic ambience. The vocals carry the drama of the songs with classic call and response story singing while the backing music tends to settle into a trancey groove that builds and intensifies then chills out as instruments come in and out to add layers or perform solos. There's a such a fine line for artists like Baaba Maal before they slip into the lucrative boomer birkenstock and tie-dye 'world music' lane, losing contact with the living musical traditions and youth audiences that actually animated them. Oddly here its the most dated 'inauthentic' keyboard/synth stuff (like Hamady Boiro) that grounds this in actual West African popular music of the 80s/90s and keeps it wierd and interesting enough to be mostly on the right side of that line.

Agréablement surpris, j'aime bien minuit et hamady boiro C'est de la musique africaine mais avec des éléments de rock du coup c'est cool même si parfois l'instru est redondante 3.5

It’s okay. Not my favorite from Africa. Lots of singing. Very good production. Not great for mixes. Neutral for me.

Has some killer guitar work at times but it gets a bit trancelike.

Fun album, but not my cup of tea

I'm generally here for West African music. I love the rhythms and harmonies and sheer verve West African artists usually come to the table with. But this is a long-ass album and everything started to blend by the end. Chop two or three tracks from this thing to tighten it up and ensure it doesn't outstay its welcome and you've got an absolute winner in my books. As it is, I can only offer 3 stars.

African music is way out of my wheelhouse, but I started getting into this a bit as it went on, especially when it had more western sounds incorporated into it. Not bad, glad I heard it, but not something I'll likely choose to listen to again.

Good album, but not something I'd listen to often. Through this music I found Wanitwa Mos & Nkosazana Daughter's Makhelwane album, which is really engaging, especially the track Majwaleni.

3/5. I have no negative reactions to this album but I am out of place here, considering I am not familiar with language, it is just hard for it to be a classic because of this barrier for me. I really enjoy the diverse selection of instruments so it was at least a unique and enjoyable listening experience.

Different but some great moments.

When I first began the 1001 albums journey, I was excited to discover albums I wouldn’t have otherwise. This one fits that bill perfectly. This album had some bangers in it for sure! I’m glad I was able to listen to it.

Enjoyable upbeat songs as well as tracks that sit with Baaba's impressive voice. The king of album I would put on while chatting up a new friend in my living room in order to appear more cultured than I actually am. Favorite tracks: Toro, Hamady Boiro, Gildelam

As much as I'll never be a great fount of knowledge on African music, every second track on this is joyfully funky, and I got on with it!

Interesante le daría otra escucha… pero no es música fácil

3-

Ok tier

pleasantly surprised. strongest at its more african inspired / fusion tracks than the more straightforward piano and guitar tracks.

I felt like I was listening to The Lion King soundtrack. Fine it its own right, just not my jam.

A musical journey that showcases the Senegalese culture. Baaba has an interesting, soulful voice. The instrumentation transports the listener to a paradise. Nice experience, for once in a while

Sure why not

Nice music! Chill stuff.

This music isn't really my style but it's definitely interesting

This is the second Baaba Maal album that we've had. Not sure he really deserves two albums on this list. I still don't speak any Pulaar, so this was more or less a mystery to me. Last track in particular was cool, most of the rest washed over me, although at least on this album there was an interesting mixture of styles and genres beyond the generic 'world music' style which we had on his previous album. I think it just scrapes a 3, might be better if I could understand it.

I go into today’s album somewhat anxiously, only because foreign language music naturally loses a lot of meaning for me when I can not understand it. Based on the track names, this will be a language I do not speak (I really wish I was a polyglot). But let’s listen to the music before any judgments are made! Songs I already knew: none Favourites: Toro, Olel To repeat the above, I can not comment on any of the lyrics here as I did not understand it. There were parts that sounded French, and some mentions of Mandela, but beyond that I’m clueless. As for the music itself, it was quite varied and enjoyable. There were the standard African music elements (which I understand is a very broad concept), with also some influences from ska and occasion rock elements. His voice is nice, but I wouldn’t say it’s astounding. Overall, this was decent.

Great singer, pretty corny music

capable music by capable artists. all groove. groove me to heaven. great vocals and ululations. i likey, but it bored me to sleeeeeepppp. they are sleepy town national hotline, maybe tone it down from 58mins to like 37? not my cup o tea.

Baaba Maal is a powerful vocalist and one I am already familiar with though not this album. I found myself enjoying it overall and leaning in to the welcoming world vibe, but a little disappointed that it lacked some of the stark power and originality of a track like 'Call to Prayer' from his 1989 album Passion Sources: (https://open.spotify.com/track/6HZUz12ZVCjWey8at477Qq). I find the starkness of that album's second transporting me to another space with its slight flute(?) accompaniment. This album is more approachable, but seems to curtsey a bit to Westerners.

Baaba Maal's "Lam Toro" was definitely an enjoyable listen. I may not understand the Pulaar language, but the album delivered a vibe that transcended language. That said, I'm not sure it stood out from other West African music that I've heard. I couldn't tell you what differentiates "Lam Toro" from other works in its genre. Although to some extent music transcends language, the language barrier is perhaps somewhat to blame for this feeling. And lack of exposure. But it all adds up to make it hard to go above a 3 despite my enjoyment.

.

Cool background listen

I’m shocked to see this artist on the list again. Kind of seems lazy on the part of the editor to include the same African artist twice with how little representation that continent has on this list so far. With that being said, I like this album quite a bit more than I liked the first album from this artist. This album just feels more accessible to me for some reason. Still not for me but I can appreciate it for what it is.

Not bad, listened in the background which I think was a good call.

Interesting but ultimately it all starts to sound the same to me.

Atmospheric and enchanting at times, overwrought at others. It could have benefitted from a little snipping at the track count, because despite this record having really beautiful moments, they get lost in amongst some murk.

Dels millors discos de world music que he descobert a la llista. Arrels i so purament africans, però amb una producció i refinament occidentals que els fan més accessibles. Un disc que es disfruta escoltar

I liked this but I gotta wonder who selected this project. If the list maker was an English speaking native I assume they also had no grasp on the language like me, so like what if the whole thing is just praising genocide or something else despicable? Beats kinda go tho