Immigrés

Exporter of mbalax, a popular Senegalese music, Youssou N'Dour put together a short, accessible, and luminous record w/ Immigrés. I don't know what he sings about, but his voice is bright and elastic, the music is flavorfully upbeat, tho gets a bit too pensive on 'Pitche Mi,' and the whole thing offers moment and authority. Tho not really comparable, N'Dour's voice reminds me of the vocals on many Raï records, showcasing high and wobbling strength. The best track here is the nearly twelve minute 'Taaw,' which has the most powerful drum work and horn play. The weakest song is 'Pitche Mi,' which is an overall lull on an otherwise buoyant, compelling record: the guitar work is too smooth, lacking intensity and optimistic grit.

Might not understand the lyrics but the instruments were speaking to me in a language I fully understand. Timeless summer day music!

Better than reggae

Now we're getting a bit farther off the beaten path! This was a great listen, and very much welcome to mix up things a bit around here from mostly predictable (but understandable!) selections so far. The artist name didn't ring a bell for me, but after listening, I couldn't shake the fact that his voice sounded incredibly familiar to me. As I moved on to listen to another of his albums, The Lion, I discovered it was co-produced by Peter Gabriel, which lead me to realize I've heard and seen performances of Youssou guesting with Peter Gabriel live. So there you go, I did have some light, peripheral familiarity of Youssou N'Dour after all. Anyways, this was a really fun listen, and while I am very unfamiliar with African music, I do have quite an appreciation for it. In college I took an African drumming class (twice!) which was so much fun and so different from any music classes I had ever taken. I've never really picked up on listening to African music casually, but the influence of that class was significant on my sense of rhythm. Listening here certainly brings back memories of that class, and also provides a subtle reminder for me to do a little more work to branch out into African music! This is a great start and I'm sure I'll explore his discography further before branching out. His voice is incredible and so very unique, and I can almost feel the joy of the players coming through the speakers as I listen. It was a bit more pop-centric than I was expecting, with traditional rock instruments like guitars and a drum set utilized in addition to the percussion, but no mistaking this with any western music, despite the influence. I know the synopsis of this 1001 albums list states it contains mostly music from the anglosphere (see: white as fuck), I sure hope there are more curveballs like this one coming my way! I don't think I'd call this any lower than a 3 star album for me at worst, but I'm fine bumping this up to 4 stars, in part for being unique here so far. Really though, I did seriously enjoy listening to this the first time around!

Great music, bringing back memories from an annual local African music festival we had in our town in the 2000s. Really fresh with a live music vibe. First african album on the list so far, i hope there will be more. 4+

This is an album that you have to listen to when the circumstances are right. It is breezy and light. A bright Summer day either driving around or grilling out in the backyard. Feeling warmth on your face. Today was not that day for me but I couldn't deny the mood I wished I was in. World music gets little love but this album is uplifting. I got me off the couch and temporarily relived my malaise. It made me want to grill some burgers, sip some cold drinks, and vibe with friends. I don't know what the fuck they are saying but the heart behind it is felt.

One of the best world music albums we've had on here so far, and coming on the heals of the last couple of days, I'm feeling in a good place Project wise. I ended up doing a fair bit of reading around this one, which is always a sign that a record has got under your skin.

Interesting. I enjoyed it, could see listening again. I feel that repeated listens are required to really get into and appreciate it more than I already did. This is the type of album I was hoping for.

Lovely sunny vibes to compliment a sunny walk to work. I was a particular fan of the super smooth, feather-light guitar licks and the punchy kick drum sound.

Loved the collection of instruments used

Super chill with a groovy vibe. Youssou bangs for sure.

Scintillating rhythms, haunting vocals and infectious bass. This record is a melting pot of traditional and 20th century Senegalese music, merging armies of fierce, driving percussion, with the bass heavy pop/rock sound sound spreading around the continent at the time. Best Tracks: - Pitche Mi - Badou Worst Tracks: N/A Rating: 8.5/10

Only previously familiar with Youssou N'Dour from his track '7 seconds' with Neneh Cherry. Having previously had Gracelands and Songhoy Blues, this felt delightfully different - African music which didnt sound so much like it was watered down for western audiences. Hugely long songs, but they kept my attention. Beautiful melodies, a charming and unique voice. Probably needs a few more listens to really dig in, but after one day it's a strong 4.

Yeah I’m in!

Lovely vibe

Seems to be a lot going on in that rhythm section, all of it good.

Enjoyed a lot more than I expected. Fun guitar work throughout

Didnt understand it but liked it much

All the african music in this list so far has been stellar. Stand-out: Badou

It’s nice to get an album that solidly grooves, and with an overall bright tone. The more you lock in with this album the better it gets. Rating: 4.0

Immigres is a really fun, somehow beachy, album. I enjoyed it thoroughly. Best Songs: Pitche Mi Worst Songs: Badou

Very cool sound

Immigrés was full of joy and was varied. Sometimes, it was more serene, and sometimes it was overflowing with fun energy. Every song was different and engaging. I was never bored! Perhaps most interesting was the slight reggae sounds that could be found throughout. Though reggae was originally crafted in Jamaica, of course its roots go back to Africa at large. That to me adds more power to the album title, French for "immigrants" (ok I did use Google Translate to help me with my assumed translation). A joyful listen, and one that I'm glad I heard as part of this project. And I learned what a big deal Youssou N'Dour is in Senegal and the whole continent of Africa!

This was so much fun!!! Loved the second track especially :)

Really liked this, listened a couple of times.

Enjoyable time listening, reminded me of other things that I think have refined the style of music since but I was glad to be introduced to this.

Fun, vibrant. Some of the songs drag on a little and don't move along too much, but it was good.

While this didn't knock my socks off, it's perfectly good Senegalese music. Yeah, the synth element is a bit of a giveaway that it's from the 80s, but it is what it is and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Not something I would normally listen to but found it very enjoyable. Will probably try to find a physical copy of this to add to my library.

Afrikkalaista maailmanmusiikkia. Pitche Mi oikeesti aika tyylikäs kappale. Tulee vähän Claptonin kitarasooloilu mieleen. Aika jazz ja blues vaikutteista muutenkin. Aika siisti. Parhaat: Pitche Mi, Taaw

I really loved the different sound of this album! Not many I have gotten so far are like it, and I really enjoyed it. 8.5/10

Super super sick. Never listened to senegalese music before, this is why I love this app ‼️🔥⭐️

January 24, 2024 Interesting, the Apple Music version had vinyl crackle in the quiet parts Very enjoyable, not a long album but certainly feels like a workout with the individual song lengths. On a second consecutive listen, still not tired of it so it gets my seal of approval 🦭

Super groovy album. I had never heard of this guy, but I see he has worked with Peter Gabriel (one of my favorites). I will now be listening to his entire catalog. Also, his Spotify radio auto-play has Ethiopiques on there, which I really enjoy. I don't speak the language, but I really appreciate his range. His band also rocks. I'm giving this a 4.

Jumping in unknowingly to this one. Wow, this opening track is simultaneously Carribean in the upbeat, mariachi in the horn arrangements, and African in the percussion and harmonies. "Pitche Mi" follows, a somber but jazzy song. Such range. I don't know what to expect; so many interesting surprises. The polyrhythms of "Taaw" remind me of patterns I've heard when studying West African Hand Drumming with masters from Guinea; the hypnotic pulse is unrelenting. "Badou" seems to put it all together: the polyrhythms, mariachi horns, Carribean feel, and jazz. This music is an adventure. I don't know what is being sung, but the music and intention comes across just fine.

First time listening to this genre of music, it’s a nice blend of jazz, acoustics, maybe latin dance? Either way, Youssou does a good job on vocals. Short album, but it’s a nice listen the whole way through

This project was really precious. While I can’t say I entirely “got it”, I’m very happy I listened to it. There is a fundamental feeling in N’Dour’s music that I believe everyone can relate to. Fav: Pitche Mi

Joyful, Vibing and full of life!

Took a while to click that I have to consciously listen to this differently than I do to traditional western pop music. There's a repetitive string that at first I thought could annoy me but if/when you (I) really digest the music through good speakers or headphones you recognize how the songs subtly build or change. Rhythm is a (the?) true focus especially on the first cut - which took a tempo turn that I did not expect - and elevated it. Probably like a lot of 80s kids I recognize N'Dour from the Peter Gabriel hit and I know his voice is the focus but I liked the music much more than I'd expected to...so much that after it was done I realized I didn't even notice his voice all that much. Ya this was a great album and the short length makes it a keeper. 8/10 4 stars.

Marvelous world music. Thank you. Very enjoyable

I only could find a version with 4 very long songs on it, not sure if that is the full album. The music is great, very talented musicians coming together to make a medley of satisfying rhythms. I can’t understand the language but the vocals do help push the music through and I felt that I could understand the songs even though I couldn’t, if that makes sense. Main complaint is that the songs are extremely repetative in that the same vocals and instrumentals are basically played on a loop for nearly 7 minutes per song where they could have been 2 minute songs. Overall solid world music album that I always love to have pop up on this list. 7/10

Something about hearing people sing in other languages is just so lovely to me. Youssou was able to get in some great harmonies, super fun instrumentals, and make feel like I was in on the conversation without speaking a lick of Wolof. Fav Songs: Taaw

really chill and different thanks for putting me onto this.

How much was David Byrne influenced by this? Soooooooo much.

Enjoyable album for focused work

Previously unknown to me and will be getting a few more listens. I’ve never quite connected with Youssou in the some way as I have with other seminal African artists of his era (Toumani etc), but this has set me on a path of discovery and made me keen to dig deeper. Brought some welcome warmth on a cold and wintry morning

This is an example of the great surprises that this web experience can give me. I think I would have otherwise never crossed paths with this artist.

This is what I'm here for! Good album, not at all the sort of thing I have heard before, and definitely a keeper. 4/5

Interesting to listen too, unsure when id listen again but glad I've been exposed to this

Pretty good, fun, upbeat songs. I loved the percussion.

World music is my least favorite genre on this challenge, but I found this enjoyable and uplifting. 3.5 stars.

Pretty great actually. 3.5/5

If you listen to it as a whole it's a good time. Great to hang or to go out and party. If you listen to the individual musicians it's pure insanity. Its like every member of this band randomly picked a song in a different time signature and just started playing and some miracle they all end up starting and stopping at the same time. It's incredible to listen to. Probably one of the most competent musicians I've heard on this list. Seems like the actual music is a little basic but they clearly know how to play.

I really enjoyed this. Awesome percussion and really interesting melodies.

Canny this. Had a few listens now and it’s fast growing into a little gem for me. Some cracking little riffs scattered throughout, kinda reminds me of a party version of Tinariwen. Tres good

Quote enjoyed this, the rhythm and repetition scratched the math rock bit of my brain but it has a lot of melody too. All of the songs were a little bit different, had their own pace and interesting points. I could see myself listening to this again.

One of the best world music albums I've listened to, the opening track, and track 3 are wonderful odyssey's full of interesting rhythm and the usage of drums across the whole album pleases these percussionist's ears.

I’ve really enjoyed the African albums on this list so far, this one doesn’t disappoint. A bit mellower than say Fela Kuti - it nevertheless has great rhythms and beats.

first listen love the talking drums

Lovely and lively.

Very enjoyable and a delightful change from the usual offerings, but then again I've rather recently come across other music which would be so haplessly filed under "World" and which made me realize, again, that this here just isn't a Best Of Anything. So, not a 5.

hahahaha i got this right after ELP, and the difference couldn't be much more stark. joy + art vs. musical masturbation.

Never heard anything like this before. Cool tribal vibes. An all around. Good listen

Good stuff!

I admit to not being very familiar with African music, so in no place to comment how good it is artistically. What I can say is that I enjoyed it. 4/5

I enjoyed this a lot. I like Youssou N'Dour's voice. The music was infectious. And the whole album is short and sweet, and doesn't outstay its welcome

Really liked this album. Went on to listen to his other stuff and I liked that too. Only thing is, kind of more an EP. 4 songs doesn't feel like a full album.

Helt jätte kiva album, fantastiska biisin med otroligt bra viba

It was interesting to see the mixture of traditional African music with more modern influences. Pitche Mi had some fun trumpets and the emotion in the vocals was really nice. I didn't understand but I could feel the love, sadness and emotions. I wanted to be at the party in Immigres and Badou made me want to live a simple life at the beach.

Pretty good. I really need to get more locked in when listening to these albums.

Very good!

was afraid of listening to this expecting to hear french (i dislike how french sounds, sorry french people) and wow he's from Senegal, but wait it was colonized by France so... will he sing in french? he did not, yay! i have no idea what he was singing about, but the music is certainly great. its sad how it has a ton of streams less than generic american/british stuff, its A LOT better than most of the music i heard here but since its not in english it tends to get overlooked, but OH MY what an album, great melodies, groove and overall vibe not quite a 5 though, sorry mr Youssou, but big kudos to you!

Aaah, ça fait du bien d’avoir autre chose que du britpop/punk/hiphop, en plus c’est du groove de qualité

i became aware of youssou n'dour in the mid-90s, when he worked with peter gabriel on secret world - thought he was incredible, but never managed to go looking for more. i'm glad this album is on the list, because it turns out i really do enjoy his work.

Fun percussion rhythms with brass instrumentation and his singing

4 Stars

Love the variety! Almost certainly our first Senegalese album, right? Really cool music, feels folksy but with a strong groove. Only four tracks too, and three of the four I enjoyed enough to save. Sometimes the list is great! Favorite tracks: Immigres, Taaw, Badou. Album art: The original cover is just the picture of (I assume) Youssou with a black void background, and a stamp with his name near the title of the album. Looks fantastic. This is a reissue I think, and it's got this blocky museum-style look to it, doesn't look bad but certainly feels unnatural. 4/5

Was a fun and great listen. Just something different

Richly and spicily complex and intricately layered, both highly engaging and easy to listen to, plus oh-so-groovy/funky. One digs it from top to bottom, though can't speak to just how authentically Senegalese. And sure, it's danceable but one prefers the slightest hint of melancholy – what's Senegalese for saudade? – that seems to undercut a few of the tracks (appropriate for a record about exile and diaspora, no?)

A sunny fun record, with moments of musical introspection - between the language barrier and the genre that I’m. It familiar with cannot pick the nuances - but I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this on a hot summer’s day.

learn to groove

First African singer I ever listened to. Interesting.

Reminds me of buskers in the park

Enjoyed very much. Joyful sounding, no idea if the lyrics match.

Pretty good.

IDK how to rate this

This is why this list and project is amazing. Never would have heard this. Loved it.

Classy beats

Wasn’t sure about this at first but ended up really enjoying it. Will need to listen again to know if this remains a “good” album or a great one. 4/5

skønt!

Yeah this was great - fantastic vocals and ridiculously good drumming with so many interlocking grooves, and just lots of fun

Really great long form jazz-like songs. Great relaxing listen. 4/5!

I like this. West African rythmns and music is sort of hypnotic.

Had no idea what this would be and was a really pleasant surprise. If music has a colour scheme, this was one of the most colourful and joyous records I've heard in this challenge. Some outstanding playing and just a rich tapestry of instrumentation and melody. I was reminded frequently of Paul Simon's Graceland and clearly this style of music was an inspiration throughout that project.

I loved it. The percussion was on point, and the rhythm had a captivating flow. The keyboard elements gave it so much color and texture. A very beautiful and lush album that was worth every minute. I'm so glad I came across this album, and I'm definitely keeping track of this one for future enjoyment.

I haven't been exposed to bangers of this type my entire life

Fun!

Love a good afrobeat record. The beat is awesome and the vamping is such a great reflection on the form. Just riiiiiiiiidddddeeee the wave.

First Senegalese musician for me. Really enjoyed, though not sure how to describe it. Listening to 7 Seconds now, and that is also a gorgeous song.

The album was a pleasure to listen to. Did not understand a word, but the vocals blended so well with the music. The percussion and horns were great.

Pretty solid.

Cool stuff. I can see why it's popular in places.

I loved this album from the first early rhythms. The horn stabs punctuate the beats. If this don't get you dancing then you have no soul. Short and sweet as well.

A pretty nice album! Good mix of African sounds with some jazz influence, or the other way around. By the look of the cover I thought it's more tribal music, but this was actually very nice listening session. Not something I'll remember forever, but still a nice one hour.

Really great stuff and brand new to me! Only the limited # of tracks due to length and inherent repetitiveness keep this from earning 5 stars.

Despite not being able to understand the lyrics, I really enjoyed the rhythm. Really nice mix and I loved whenever the horns came in. A small nitpick, but I wish they didn't fade out during the resolution of Taaw.

Awesome. Something different, I like it.

Liked this a lot. Light, playful, the kind of discovery I come to this project for. 3.5/5

Nice

A lovely pick me up album that is irresistible and making you want to move. Lovely harmonies, lovely melodies and Youssou's wonderful singing is is a delight to hear.

Enjoyed it a lot!

I really enjoyed this and it was fun to have something very out of the norm from the albums I've pulled so far.

Found myself grooving along to this one.

I don’t have much of a framework with which to assess this album, but I did enjoy it. The singing was great especially when the harmonies came in. The guitar work and brass work were great as well. The use of African rhythms and melodies within a pop framework worked well and I’d be interesting in learning more about this music.

I have definitely heard of this artist. Just as I have "heard" of a lot of these artists, which is probably why these are on this list. Interested to listen to this style of music. Won't be for a long time. Definitely respect this type of music but won't make it past track 2.

Gentle instrumentation and smooth vocals with exotic spice

This took me far away, to another time, someplace else.

If you can't find the groove the problem is you

Interesting, charming, and I feel like a better person for having listened to this.

Infectious!

I was unfamiliar with this, but it’s a fantastic listen. Beautiful music - I personally did not find the synths intrusive or annoying. This is going onto regular rotation. The guitar work is fantastic. The singing is otherworldly.

I’ve never listened to music from Senegal before. This was fun background music while I cooked. I enjoyed it. 4

Bright, enjoyable even though I don’t know the language.

Excellent Youssou N'Dour album from the 80s. I did not know it but as expected liked it a lot, close to 5-star.

Very nice album, only four songs, each with their own atmosphere, all delivered with a unique voice.

Fun. Quite different than music I normally listen to.

In a twist, 1001 Albums has included a Senegalese-native genre called Mbalax. Here, Youssou N'Dour blends the percussive elements of traditional Wolof Music with pop sensibilities. The result is a groovy, infectious handful of jams that simply do not compare. Having the traditional styling of Wolof Music lends a sound that is not often heard outside of it's respective culture, so the end result as a Canadian listener is a fresh and exciting sound.

Yeah I enjoyed it I don’t have a lot of thoughtful commentary to add. Just really like the sounds, like how it ends

Très bon, je l'ai aimé beaucoup. C'est en français, mais certainement africain. Je crois qu'il est exceptionnel, et j'espère qu'on lui entendra encore

yeah this was pretty cool! i always appreciate listening to music that is outside of my norm, that challenges my conventional, or in this case, american music sense. this album is pretty listenable for the north american ear. the rhythms are great and the music is really interesting. youssou n'dour's voice is compelling and i felt actually pretty uplifted by listening to this. fun stuff!

241223 16:06 3.5

Groovy yet sophisticated. Consistent yet varied. Quite good! B

Groovy

Love all the percussion dancing around in my headphones.

Pitche Mi is exceptional. I love the jazzy world music with layers that really show interesting work across multiple instruments. The other tracks carry the same vibe and are enjoyable, but i can listen to Pitche Mi on repeat.

Overwhelmed with work today, and too exhausted to give *Immigrés* a proper listen. Browsing through those tracks that have quite a long time stamp, it feels like the album is somewhat different from the more "commercial" and "streamlined" output Youssou N'Dour had during the nineties. And it seems it has a more "authentic" feel, reminding me of Fela Kuti. I'm lacking refererence points to address this music correctly, so I won't say much more right now. But I have nothing but benevolent thoughts when it comes to what I've browsed through. *Immigrés* does "feel" like a nice entry point into a larger universe. Adding it to my "waiting list". Number of albums left to review: 361 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 288 Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 153 (including this one) Albums from the list I won't include in mine (many others are more essential to me): 205

This was great! Rosie really loved grooving to the first track in particular, and it set us up for a whole afternoon of fun listening.

Of course already familiar with this singer, 7 Seconds being such a big hit and all, it was nice to hear some of his early work. And especially nice to hear this type of traditional music with a heavy 80s synth vibe to it. Very enjoyable!

I first tried to listen to this on headphones at work, but kept getting interrupted, then ear buds walking to work, it got a bit more interesting. Finally I played this fairly loud on my home stereo and wow this album fully open up. It was an absolute pleasure to listen to. I've since listen to a few tracks again and really like it.

Surprisingly interesting. I don't usually listen to international folk music but this album has inspired me to seek some more out.

I swear this album has been sampled non stop since release. I know I have never heard this before and the whole thing sounded warm, familiar. I liked this.

I have looked forward to spending some time with Youssou N'Dour in this project and was glad he was included. It didn't disappoint, taking me to a party in Dakar, where so many influences have come together to make something unique.

Very nice!

A very nice change of pace that I quite enjoyed!

Well known from 7 Seconds, but didn't know much of his work outside of that. It's short and beautiful, fantastic vibes that transport you to somewhere hot and dusty.

Cool afro music but very short.

Really great

Passionate and a little groovy.

Good change from the usual. The first track is tops.

Unfamiliar territory for me, so it’s not something I can critique in any way other than to say that I found it very enjoyable and easy to listen to on a visceral level. Will definitely be revisiting

Great listen for something I had never heard of before.

Joyful music, full of emotion! The whole band is excellent. The bass playing stood out to me — there are some cool bass lines that add complexity to the music. And the guitar is gorgeous. Definitely going to put this one in rotation for a while.

That was an incredibly pleasant album. The combination of Senegalese drums with the jazzy rock influences makes this a great listen. And happy.

I liked this more than I expected, mainly because of the percussion. I felt that Taaw was a bit long (eleven minutes?). But an album that was only a smidge over 30 minutes long with only 4 tracks? Can't be overly critical. Most people know Youssou from "In Your Eyes", but I'm glad that this wasn't just him doing that. I was hoping the music would have been more varied, though. It felt very same-y to me. I think his voice complimented the music well, but I don't know if it's something I would listen to on a regular basis. I can think of his voice as just being an instrument, but it wears thin after a while. Still, it was good for what it was.

Pretty dope for the 80s

Take my ratings with a grain of salt. I especially love the two middle tracks

Nice combination of guitar, skin drums, drums, and trumpets. It was a jam. Idk if i'll listen to it again, but I might do.

Exactly the type of album I was hoping to discover, as my knowledge of African music outside of Fela Kuti is severely lacking. A great project.

Damn is this a vibe. I wish world music like this had the same kind of write ups that the more popular stuff does. Obviously they hit a smaller group of people, but there's clearly a lot more to this album than the Wiki leads. A complex jaunt of music and emotion. The language barrier doesn't matter too much because the music is so expressive as is. As advertised: a short, but comprehensive jaunt through a uniquely African soundscape

I don't know if Youssou N'Dour and Baaba Maal have a Blur vs Oasis type rivalry, but if they do, put me down as a Youssou fanboy. I have a new favourite Senegalese album, because this is great. Everything about it is quality. The percussion rhythms, the vocal, the melodies, the horns are all fun, evocative, and sound joyous. I would definitely put this on again. Rating: 4/5 Playlist track: Immigrés/Bitim Rew Date listened: 10/07/23

Trop nice, j'adore tombé sur ce genre d'album. celui-ci est parfait pour mon mood. Il faut que sa sorte du lot un peu. C'est la raison pour laquelle j'aime la liste. 4.5

Wow, great, always forget about him.

Loved this

i need to listen to more african music

I knew of Yousou N'Dour mainly from the various collaborations with western artists and involvement with different charity causes but I'd never heard his own music before. Very impressive. It's really exposing some gaps in my musical knowledge and sending down a rabbit hole of his extensive discography, the mbalax style, and Senegalese history. I'd give 4.5 if I could.

Brilliant world music, really beautiful

Pleasantly surprised

I didn’t understand a lick of this album, but I liked listening to it while I winged my eyeliner in anticipation of another shit workday full of monotonous zoom meetings.

Pulsating with polyrhythms Youssou N’Dour’s album sounds terrific.

Very good

Very relaxing

fun, not something Id normally listen to.

This album was emotional and enjoyable.

This was new to me, although I have heard of him. Really enjoyable, groovy beats and a nice short album.

Funky, feel food listening. Very enjoyable stuff.

Very nice switch up. Easy listening yet complex in structure. Lovely vocals too. Fave track - Taaw

ok

Очень мелодичный и красивый альбом, в котором фолк вмешивает в себя звуки из других жанров. Даже непонимание текстов не препятствует наслаждению, так как инструментал здесь выполнен очень интересно и оригинально. (8)

A gorgeous slice of west African folk/blues/afrobeat music. The tracks do become a bit background after the 20 minute mark, but the polarising synths mentioned in other reviews were too elusive for my ear. A real treat.

Rating: 7/10 Best songs: Imigres, Taaw

Erittäin kova! Fresh niinku nuoret sanoo 4/5

Upea ääni ja hieno levy. Edelleen toivois että olis enemmän tämmösiä uusia tuttavuuksia listalla Metallican cover-keikkojen sijasta.

This is a great, fun and interesting record. Only 4 quite long tracks, best song being Taaw. Glad I listened to this one.

A brief, breezy and energetic album from one of Africa's finest musicians of the late 20th Century, packed to the brim with a neverending barrage of synths fusing with Afrobeat. It doesn't overstay its welcome and deserving of further attention. Favorites: Taaw, Immigrés.

I love being exposed to music from cultures from around the world. This is a fantastic example of something I never would have known existed or had sought out on my own without this project's help. Awesome stuff!

This felt like one cohesive piece rather than 4 individual tracks. I rather much enjoyed the whole thing.

Very Interesting

Enjoyed this album. Nice chill background music. Relaxing percussion and vocals.

Instrumentally compelling with a consistent sound throughout

something different, fun and cheerful

Intense and dynamic. Dancers probably find it danceable. One's not qualified to say much more than it sounds cool and substantive and lord knows we've all heard much worse world music and if this made him a global star, it must be good, right?

A pleasant surprise. Never dabbled into this genre before, but the music is incredible. At some points often a bit bloated, but full of talent and ambition. Favourite Tracks: - Pitche Mi - Taaw - Badou Overall Rating: 4/5

This kind of unexpected album is one of the most exciting things about this list. It's far from my favorite music genre, but it's far because of my lack of knowledge of how big the world is. I hope to keep this project for the following years, and I wish to receive more classical but even more of these different and culturally challenging albuns. Good music, great experience. (Unfortunately, the Wikipedia page for the album is too short, but the Youssou N'Dour page helps with it)

It's a groove

Quite beautiful

It's 7 Seconds guy! Good vibes, not something I'd listen to every day.

nice album

Beautiful. Not much more I can add

great album

This was a wonderful soundtrack to today.

Falleg plata. Falleg rödd.

Overall, a solid album. I really enjoyed the funky beats and the general vibe. Though I have to admit the first half of the album is 4 stars for me and the second half is only 3 stars. But what can you do? It is definitely worth a listen. Giving this 4 stars because I like the vocals and I'm feeling generous today. Fave track: Title track.

Heerlijk albumpje met andere muziek als normaal, top

Whatever he’s selling, I’m buying. 4 stars

Wow this is a great album. Jazzy, funky with amazing guitar and fantastic percussion. I loved it. 4.5 🌟

Africana, reggae, jazz

Leuk album. Wereldmuziek in een modern jasje

Immigrés by Youssou N'Dour. I had heard his backing vocals in a number of songs most notably "In Your Eyes" by Peter Gabriel. First time listening to his own music which is classified as mbalax, a mixture of traditional Sengalese and latin-styles and was huge in Africa. This album is four songs. All songs are dominated by his tenor voice and a slew of percussions. Mostly rhythm driven. The one exception is the second song "Pitche Mi" where you really hear the Latin and guitar influence. "Taaw" is the highlight with its rolling bass and heavy percussion. Paul Simon was most definitely listening to this for his album "Graceland." Overall, I'm surprised at how much I enjoyed this album and music.

Well shit, I'm gonna have to remember this one when I'm grilling, hammocking, or otherwise relaxing this summer. I don't know what the lyrics are about, but the music is really fun. I also like the length of this record. It's almost not an LP. Four tracks at a total of 34 minutes. That must barely make the cut. Anyway, these songs need to be longer (liket he 11+ minute "Taaw"). Because they sort of lure you into a groove. And, for me at least, I don't really ever want it to end. Also, I feel like there is a lot of mastering compression happening on this record, and sometimes it has a really cool effect of smooshing everything into a wall of sound that is only driver forward by the hand percussion. Loved it.

pretty groovy, I don’t think I’d want to listen to it more than once but for what it was it was pretty fun 7/10

I can't put it in words but there's something about the singing style in Senegalese music that is quite soothing. He sings this way and is also able to hit notes in an expanded range. My favourite bits are songs with the traditional African guitar melodies as in Taaw. While this album has  lovely percussion throughout, the album doesn't hit its potential since the production doesn't do justice. I need to use my imagination to think how amazing  his singing on Pitche Mi must be live or with recording / producing capabilities from even 10 - 20 years later.  I quite like Senegalese music and would have a 5 for music from that country but I feel like I'm  rounding up here.

This sounds less commercial than the YND stuff that he put out a few years later. The first song caught my attention about half way thru and the next two were quite enjoyable. I like the rambling percussion, the loose arrangements the guitar in Pitche MI. And of course the voice.

I was not expecting to like this one, but was surprised to find a really enjoyed it! Pitche Mi was a standout, so emotional.

Very good!

sounds important i guess. fun and short! 4 stars

Great album. 4 Heard it while reading the bible. Matched the vibe

Loved this. Amazing voice, and a fascinating sound.

Un disco increíblemente ecléctico, pero agradable de escuchar, especialmente la primera canción. Está interesante porque no se parece a nada que haya escuchado antes; la mezcla de tambores con metales y guitarra, con un ritmo que no se parece a nada que haya escuchado antes.

Honestly, not bad. I liked it way more than I thought I would. I just don't see myself revisiting it too often

🌍🇸🇳⭐️

This is great… another smashing African album I wouldn’t have otherwise been exposed to!

nice!

Some great beats, perfect to have on in the background when you have a garden party.

really nice! While I've listened to perhaps more music from Africa than the average person this is new to me. Not sure I would purchase it but happy to have heard it.

Wow!

Happy, easy listening. Good for the background of another activity.

Loved it

nicee

Really good. Hypnotic. I was worried as I didn't like his stuff that I knew.

New to me. So so good. Saving it.

Enjoyed this one. The reason I follow this list is to introduce me to great music I perhaps wouldn't normally come across, and this fits that bill perfectly

8/10 I really loved the beats and instrumentals on this, and it was a nice change of pace from Western music. However, I found it repetitive at times and sometimes the vocals sounded really nasal in a way that I didn't care for

8/10. Pretty good, I see why I had to learn about this guy in French class

Buen disco. Con mucho ritmo

Interesting sounds but pretty repetitive. I’m glad it was short. 7

Great percussion and voice. Very upbeat.

What a fun, chill, relaxing album. Spent the rest of the day listening to his other albums!

I feel like I should be able to mark 'listened' and 'enjoyed,' but also that I am wildly unqualified to put a rating on this, given how little I know about African music.

Immigrés is an album by Senegalese singer and percussionist Youssou N'Dour. AllMusic remarks that the album is "a good part of what put [N'Dour] on the international map"

i liked this a lot

Mellow afrobeat, this opens a whole new world.

Very cool, interesting sounds and unique instrument combinations. Enjoyable.

Loving this so far, beachy boat music. perfect for a nice sun nap.

i like this alot eventhough its lyrics are a mystery

Fun, party music. Whoever the drummer is on this, he is putting in WORK. Weirdly I feel like Maiden fans might enjoy "Pitche Me". Favorite track: "Pitche Me"

reminds me of little big planet :)

Trevligt, och slutade innan jag hann tröttna.

It’s suprizanly not bad as a quiet background music during the work when needed.

7/10

This afropop world music vibe is great out of the gates, until the repetition starts to eat at my brain and I'm hearing the same guitar riff over and over and over and over and over until that's all I hear and then the next song starts and I still hear the riff, or is he playing it in this song too? Three, only if I get to stop the album midway.

Kul med skiva från en i Graceland-gänget. Fin röst och bra sväng, stark 3a

3/5. One of those albums that is a groove machine, especially on my personal highlight “Taaw.” The drums and bright horns give it a very joyful feel and the vocals are pleasant as well. That being said even in its short runtime it does start to get a bit samey so the four tracks here all slightly blend together in my mind. Not a new all-time favorite of mine but still a pleasant listen for a quiet morning.

nice enough

No me gusta nada su voz. Si fuese todo instrumental me gustaría mucho más, aún así fue muy interesante.

(obviously) came in with no context and liked this quite a bit. Musically it had me moving.

Definitely in the category of "I'd never have listened to this otherwise". It was nice enough, not particularly memorable but pleasant as background music, and well outside the realms of what I'd normally listen to.

A fun little album. Took me a bit to get into it, but overall felt it was a pretty good jam. Would probably be better if I was fluent in the language though.

I can hear the potential here. The bass and drums throughout is really fun. It’s definitely got a good rhythm.

fine, I preferred this to femi kuti

Different to what I’d usually listen to but won’t be listening again.

Mbalax Favorite Song: Immigrés/Bitim Rew Least Favorite Song: I guess Pitche Mi? Idk if I truly want to keep this album? While the album is produced nicely, it’s really more of I don’t think that I would see myself listen to them again. It’s okay. 6/10

I thought I'd like this but turned out to have too much westernized 80's influence

I love this scratchy-guitar rock sound with its positive vibes and irresistible rhythms. But this album can’t compare to some other albums I’ve heard in this challenge (Fela Kuti, for instance). It seems a bit aimless and tepid. A 3 — but I’m hoping to hear more from Mr. N’Dour.

You could pull some evil samples from this. 4? 3 for now

Never heard of this artist before. Album is alright.

Lots of fun. Not really my thing personally, but it would be difficult not to have a good time listening to this music.

Was it kinda interesting? yes. Was it something I'll ever listen to again, probs not bitches.

I can see how this album would be amazing for some listeners but it’s is not for me personally.

Language barrier does get in the way for me but I did enjoy this Playlist add: "Badou"

I like this but can't see going back to it very often. Youssou's voice really is a force of nature. Very curious how salsa/etc made its way to Senegal and the Sahel such that it became The template for popular music for a while there. When I was younger this all sounded Sui generis to my western ears, like it just came out of (almost literally) nowhere, not recognizing at all that it is the same genre interplay and give/take the world round...

Retro listen

dece

An interesting album, never heard something like this

1984 world music, always fun, peter gabriel, Senegal Immigres

Overall: 6/10 Not the type of music I usually go for, but there was interesting instrumentation here that I enjoyed. I was actually at a multicultural festival this weekend and there was music similar to this being played there. Fav Song: Pitche Mi

Pretty sure these drums were used in the Black Panther soundtrack. Makes sense!

This has a nice dance-able rhythm to it. Africa rhythm's are like no other, no wonder some Europeans like Ginger Baker, in the late 60s and early 70s were fascinated with the sound. It's a bit jazzy here and there, mainly in the luscious horns . My favourite song on the album "Pitche Mi" takes you on a journey and a half, the song has a good structure to it. This one wasn't too bad, not sure if I'd re-vist, but it was a fun one. Highlight Song/s: "Pitche Mi"

Great beats.

Sopi mukavasti tähän kesälomateemaan. Mukava nähdä Youssou N'Dourista tämä "oikea" puoli. Saa nähdä kuullaanko vielä myöhemmin hänestä tällä listauksella

Tässä oli ihan kivoja biittejä ja muutenkin ihan hauskaa kuunneltavaa. Jostain syystä luulin että Youssou N'Dour on semmosta imelän siirappista radioystävällistä ysäripoppia painava kaveri, mutta tässä oikeastaan oli vaan yhdessä biisissä semmosia kaikuja, mutta sekin oli pitkä kuin nälkävuosi, ja aika kaukana radioystävällisyydestä.

That was really interesting. Very vibe-y.

The only thing I knew N'Dour from was his work as a background singer for Peter Gabriel. I enjoyed listening to this, but it didn't rise up to the level of a classic for me. Songs were long, and I felt that length a couple times.

I like it a lot, but any album with the audacity to publish a near 12 minute track should come with a warning label.

Interesting music from someone I've never heard of. Didn't appeal to me, but nothing to complain about

sympa. je réécouterai pas

it's a good listen for me one time Will I listen to again: 3%

it was not bad, i liked the start but it started better than it finished

A fun romp through Senegelese culture. While long, each track is quite lively and keeps the dance party going.

Yo quiero a Peret y a la Trinca

Didn't understand the lyrics but liked the music

Nothing to say. Summer hit just destroys me

Mmmm World!

fun, nicht ganz meins

A fun and bouncy album. I like the extended instrumental sections.

Enjoyed more than I thought I would, interesting stuff. First track’s a lot of fun

The music here is great. Groovy, funky and fun. No need for lyrics when the music is this good. Track 2 & 4 are a bit of a let down and track 4 ends abruptly. Some good times had here but didn’t blow me away

Cool music. Cool hat 👍

Hard for me to relate to, but quite an enjoyable listen while I tidied my room.

Immigrés by Youssou N’Dour is upbeat, pleasant, and genuinely fun, even if it’s not something I see myself returning to. Still, I’m glad it crossed my path.

It's fun music to listen to while you work. Didn't get bored/tired of it.