Search - Fula Flute :: Fula Flute

In a class all of its own

Joe Sixpack -- Slipcue.com | ...in Middle America | 09/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This New York-based ensemble features the "tambin," or Fulani flute of West Africa, played here quite strikingly by soloist Bailo Bah, who growls and vocalizes as he plays, producing an unnerving effect which recalls the defiant, playful saxophone work of jazzman Rashaan Roland Kirk (who also sang while he played) as well as the spectral, droning quality of African author Francis Bebey, on some of his sanza (finger piano) albums. The ensemble also features instruments such as the kora, balafon and berimbau, in a mix that is lively and immediate. This is one of those albums that will stop you in your tracks and force you to listen: it's an arresting sound, unlike anything else you're likely to have heard. Highly recommended!"

A traditional flute enhanced by exhaled vocal wailing

WorldDiscoveries.Net | Petaluma, California | 08/29/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Imagine a traditional flute enhanced by exhaled vocal wailing and you have an idea of the duality of sound featured in Bailo Bah's FULA FLUTE: a deep-toned, haunting flute enhanced further by the player's actual vocal injections from breathing .

Likely to prove compelling to any listener of the wailing tambin flute style: a specialty audience steeped in West African heritage."