Welcome To Mali - Amadou & Mariam
Welcome To Mali Image
  • Summary: The African duo met at a school for the blind and have since written a song for the 2006 World Cup and their latest album features production by Damon Albarn.
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 21
  2. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. 100
    Where Manu Chao might have smoothed off some of the rough edges during his spell as co-producer, this album positively celebrates those grungier moments.
  2. The great thing about this follow-up is the way it builds on that foundation without lapsing into self-consciousness.
  3. If the album is frustratingly uneven--if, despite moments of exuberance, it can also feel like a mundane grind--well, I suspect that also mirrors life in Mali. And almost everywhere else, too.

See all 21 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 19
  2. Negative: 4 out of 19
  1. JohnP.
    10
    Some do just what they can, others shoot for the stars. This album is a stunning masterpiece, and what some people can't seem to understand, is the fact that this album was created in attempt of perfecting the balance of complexity and simplicity. Neither is the perfect route to success, though like a political party, many subscribe to a pole rather than a balance of the two. This album travels great distance in an attempt to blend a wide variety of musical backgrounds, exposing what the "dull" lyrics as described below stretch to yell, that there is much more to Africa than tribal rhythms and chants. Amadou and Mariam reach there mark, and then some. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  2. MattB
    5
    Its really not all that great. Not much innovation. If you like traditional african music in a pop format then by all means go for it but I assure you this album is nothing special. Be prepared to feel pleasant at best and underwhelmed at worst. You'd be much better off with the Ruby Suns - Sea Lion. I dare you to listen to Tane Mahuta and tell me there is 1 song that even approaches it on this album. There's no comparison. A further and yet still even better recommendation would be .. Animal Collective's merriweather post pavilion. Not quite as "worldly" as the previous 2...more like "otherworldly". It puts them on legend territory. No sh*t. For a great trip I'd rather listen to this than yoshimi or darkside anyday. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  3. SergeyP
    1
    Absolutely agree with user comment: this CD is only for "uneducated people who like to think themselves as curious and open minded."
    • 0 of 0 users said yes

See all 19 User Reviews

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