The Mansa of Mali...A Retrospective

AMG Review of The Mansa of Mali...A Retrospective

Ron Wynn
All Music Guide

The ten cuts on this anthology range from the late-'70s "Mandjou," with its stinging guitar riffs, throbbing organ, and gorgeous sax backing, to the spectacular "Souareba," in which Keita's vibrant vocals are backed by electric drums and synthesizers, plus "Tenin," from the LP Ko-Yan. This was produced by Joe Zawinul and included his contributions on keyboards, assistance from the great Antillean bassist Etienne M'Bappe, and appearances by many other African music superstars. The anthology covers Keita's three Mango releases, plus the LP L'Enfant Lion. While it's not a substitute for the complete LPs, those unaware of Keita's vocal prowess and mastery will hopefully be persuaded to get the complete package by this fine sampler.