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Leni Stern: Alu May
Along with four percussionists and three singers, the alluring sound of the n'goni, a lute-type instrument played widely throughout Mali, dominates the textural landscape of the music. Used in accompaniment and as a solo voice, the four n'goni performers create a captivating presence, complimented by Stern's electric and acoustic guitar layering.
Guest performers include guitarist Mike Stern, Leni's husband, who lends his signature scorching lines to "Ite ta Ninye, and the late Michael Brecker whose tenor saxophone envelopes "Ousamane and "Saya (For Don Alias). The latter is an especially poignant tribute to the late percussionist who first exposed Stern to the rich similarities between African and jazz music.
The disc closes with a beautiful cover of Bob Dylan's "It Ain't Me Babe, featuring Stern's soothing rasp on the timeless lyrics and Haruna Samake on the camelagoni. It's a touching finish to a session full of serenity, sorrow and hope.
Track Listing
My Name is Oumou; Ousmane; Ite ta Ninye; Saya (For Don Alias); It Ain
Personnel
Leni Stern
guitar, electricLeni Stern: guitars, vocals; Ami Sacko: vocals; Mah Soumano: backing vocals; Dally Kouyate: backing vocals; Bassekou Kouyate: jelli n'goni; Omar Kouyate: n'goni; Moussa Sesoko: n'goni; Andara Kouyate: n'goni bas; Haruna Samake: camelagoni; Moussa Bah: tama, jembe; Alu Couliba: calabas; Djelibah Diabate: dun dun superimpose; Michael Brecker: tenor saxophone (2, 4); Michael Stern: guitar solo (3); Deron Johnson: fender Rhodes (1).
Album information
Title: Alu May | Year Released: 2007 | Record Label: Self Produced
About Leni Stern
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