Search - Baaba Maal :: Jombaajo

Jombaajo
Baaba Maal
Jombaajo
Genres: International Music, Pop
 
  •  Track Listings (10) - Disc #1

While it doesn't seem like it from the release date, this was recorded early in Baaba Maal's career, before he became an international superstar. And though it's not as sophisticated as his later work, the elements that wo...  more »

     
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CD Details

All Artists: Baaba Maal
Title: Jombaajo
Members Wishing: 0
Total Copies: 0
Label: Sonodisc
Release Date: 5/2/2000
Genres: International Music, Pop
Style: Africa
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPCs: 782843705921, 3252411705952

Synopsis

Amazon.com
While it doesn't seem like it from the release date, this was recorded early in Baaba Maal's career, before he became an international superstar. And though it's not as sophisticated as his later work, the elements that would bring him true success are in place, with a tight band and imaginative compositions like "Demga Lam" and "Baydikacce" that draw as much from reggae as from Maal's native Senegal. The production is somewhat dated, but the melodies and excellent voice are in fine shape, harking back to the time when Maal was the main challenger to Youssou N'Dour's Dakar crown, before they both became global favorites. Maal's more rural background is reflected in the acoustic tones and samples of "Ngawla." Jombaajo offers insight into the development of Maal's career and the pathway to superstardom. Not a classic, but a worthwhile stop on the journey. --Chris Nickson

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CD Reviews

Perhaps not the best place to start
kaeren | Seattle, WA USA | 09/28/2000
(3 out of 5 stars)

"Like the other reviewer, I look forward to Baaba Maal's new releases, but I found this particular one was relatively disappointing. I believe most if not all of the songs here, are found on other albums, and without so much of the spirit and energy that really makes Baaba Maal's music come alive. This album sort of feels like a Lawrence Welk-icized version of some of his otherwise best songs - the drums sound muted, and keyboards replace some of the more exotic stringed instuments... man, even the horns sound synthesized and dull. Go for "Djam Leelii" if you'd like to listen to a more meditative and gorgeous Baaba Maal record, listen to "Firin in Fouta" for a danceable and funky party disc, or get "Nomad Soul" for a refined and polished fusion/collaboration listen. I think they released "Jombaajo" for us purists who automatically buy anything with his name on it. :)"