Description
#superdjataband #vinyl #vinylrecords
“Volume 2” is an essential album for enthusiasts of West African music and anyone captivated by the recent reissue of the Rail Band on Mississippi Records. This collection shines a spotlight on the extraordinary guitar work of Zani Diabaté, a figurehead in Mali’s musical landscape. Diabaté’s Super Djata Band, which gained significant popularity in the 1980s, masterfully blends elements of psych rock, blues, and Afrobeat with traditional Malian sounds, including Wasulu hunter music, Senufo pastoral dances, griot praises, and the rich musical traditions of the Fula and Mandinka peoples.
Zani Diabaté’s musical journey began well before the formation of the Super Djata Band. His diverse talents were showcased in Mali’s Ballet National in 1963, where he sang, danced, and played various instruments like the guitar, kora, balafon, and percussion. Following this, he formed the Ganoua Band and later the Djata Band in 1974, recording prolifically for Radio Mali. Despite being named the third national orchestra of Mali, Diabaté’s ensemble faced many challenges, including long periods without work, which led them to forge their own path.
By 1982, the Super Djata Band had reached the zenith of their fame, and “Volume 2” captures them in their prime. Unlike the Rail Band, which often fused funk with downtempo malinke rhythms, Diabaté’s group delved deep into the local bambara sounds. They skillfully intertwined traditional Malian elements with Western psychedelia and blues, creating a sound that resonated both locally and internationally. Diabaté’s virtuoso guitar performance stands out, his intricate riffs and solos pealing above the band’s dynamic rhythms and vibrant vocal harmonies.
“Volume 2” is a testament to the innovation and cultural richness of the Super Djata Band. The album not only highlights the band’s technical prowess but also their ability to bridge cultural divides through music. For those looking to explore the depths of Malian musical heritage and the brilliance of Zani Diabaté, this album offers a captivating listening experience that is both historically significant and musically exhilarating. Whether you’re a long-time aficionado of African music or a newcomer, “Volume 2” is a treasure trove of rhythmic complexity and melodic beauty.
