 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
 |  |
"Baayo" |
 | ||||||
 |  |  |  |  |  | |
 | ||||||
EDITORIAL REVIEW >>
This is a classic in the West African popular music genre, perhaps because of its defiance of "pop." Baaba Maal has become famous as one of the great popularizers of Senegalese music, with big productions and illustrious stars peppering his records. But Baayo was a major change, as he dug deep into the roots of the music and came out with a deeply moving, sonically gorgeous acoustic recording. The interplay of the guitar between Maal and longtime compatriot Mansour Seck is rich and clear. Other acoustic strings and percussion lend it warmth and depth, and a very light touch on the synthesizers enhances a few tracks by remaining almost unnoticeable. Not since the now historic Djam Leelii (a set of guitar duets with Mansour Seck in the early '80s) had Maal reached as deep into the well of time for inspiration. For the traditionalist this is Maal's essential album; for his longtime fans, this is the revelation of the music's long history. --Louis Gibson
 |  | 'Agouyadji' |
| | 'Baaba' |
| | 'Baayo' |
| | 'Bouyel' |
| | 'Diahowo' |
| | 'Dogata' |
| | 'Joulowo' |
| | 'Mariama' |
| | 'Samba' |
| | 'Yero mama' |
LISTENER REVIEWS >>
Speaks to My Heart
Pure poetry, pure music. This speaks to my heart. His voice when he sings about the loss of his mother is like a universal cry of sorrow and love. Having been a fan of Baaba Maal since 1987 my respect and awe for this remarkable, and very special talent only increases. I keep coming back to this CD. All of the songs are a delight. I have owned this CD since it first came out and NEVER have tired of it.
taste
It is a scandal that people do not know about this man. This is just beautiful music played with a generousity and spirit and skill that leave you gobsmacked. I would like to say something emotional but I'll end up sounding like a bloody hippy. Well worth buying even if you can't eat for a week.
Sends shivers through your spine
Baayo is by far Baaba Maal's most incredible work. He is truly in his element in this album, expressing his griot upbringing and traditional roots. While some of his other albums venture on pop, Baayo is traditional Senegalese music in the purest sense. His voice will give you chills, and his harmonies with Mansour Seck are spectacular. I have a large collection of African c.d.s, yet I keep coming back to this one. And if you have the chance to see him live in concert, as I have many times, I promise you a breathtaking experience you won't forget.
OTHER PEOPLE WHO LIKE "Baayo" ALSO LIKE >>
 | "Djam Leelii" by Baaba Maal and Mansour Seck MORE INFO |
 | "Missing You (Mi Yeewnii)" by Baaba Maal MORE INFO |
