CD Review: Karim Diouf's 'Adouna'

Karim Diouf
Adouna
Audiogram

The Senegalese culture is rich with musical history by world-reknowned musicians, such as Baaba Maal and Youssou N'Dour. Now, add Karim Diouf to the world's top performers from this interesting and musically-gifted region of Africa. Karim's homeland of Senegal has clearly influenced his latest recording, Adouna. The Senegalese rhythms, language, and arrangements are modern, yet traditional. The grooves are pure Afro-pop with a good degree of Wolof culture represented. There are traditional instruments utilized, but the majority are basic guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards. However, the arrangements are very engaging and upbeat. There are eleven intriguing tracks that do anything but keep the listener bored. There are some similarities with other Afro-pop stars of the region, but there are beautiful melodies and vocal arrangements that add another level of texture and professionalism. This is a great album for the Senegalese aficionado or African music listener in general. ~ Matthew Forss