CD Review: Ablaye Ndiaye Thiossane's 'Thiossane'

Ablaye Ndiaye Thiossane
Thiossane
Syllart

A singer in the 1950s in Senegal, Ablaye Ndiaye Thiossane finally records his first album for all of us to hear. Thiossane, which means, "all things related to tradition," is an album steeped in Latin rumba and Senegalese flavors that elicit danceable actions in all those within earshot of its entrancing melodies. A form of Cuba-lese music combines the rhythms and percussion of Cuba with the Afro-pop sounds of Senegalese uptempo jazz. At 74, Ablaye is a seasoned veteran when it comes to performing music. He is joined by a plethora popular performers, including Cheikhna Ndiaye, Thierno Kouate, Robert Lahoud, Cheick Tidiane Tall, Samba Laobe Ndiaye, Papa Noel, Muctar Wurrie, Lofti Benjeloun, Balla Sidibe, Medoune Diallo, Souleymane Faye, and others. Nine long tracks showcase the diversity and longevity of Ablaye's music. Fans of Senegalese music, Cuban music, and Afro-pop will love Thiossane. ~ Matthew Forss