Rocking in the Saddle
Dr. Debra Jan Bibel | Oakland, CA USA | 06/29/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The promise of Etran Finatawa's debut album has been well fulfilled in this more mature feast of powerful rhythm, call and response, and serious joy. The group's members are of two nomadic peoples of the Saharan desert and the Sahelian grasslands, the Tuareg and the Wodaabe. They sing of their concern of maintaining their ancient cow and sheep herding life in times of environmental, political, and social change. The album insert includes extensive notes and some very fine photographs; their clothing is indicative of their respective territorial climatic zones. While the pioneering and successful Tourag group Tinariwen have become bluesy, funk world musicians, Etran Finatawa remains more rooted to tradition (as much as the introduction of electric guitars allows), yet their musical sense is more focused and studied. The rhythm, to me, is suggestive of the rocking motion atop a walking camel, and while listening to the CD, I often had to rise from my chair to dance. I much enjoy this new contribution to North African nomadic music. You probably will also."
An Oasis at the Crossroads
Amaranth | Northern California | 09/01/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
""Desert Crossroads" is an oasis in the sands of music. Etran Finatawa of Niger unites the Touareg (the legendary "blue men" of the Sahara) with the Wodaabe. There's electrifying guitar wedded to the sounds of the calabash. "Desert Crossroads" is a fertile musical union between two nomadic peoples.
"Kel Tamasheck",an ode to the Touareg people,has rocking,bluesy guitar reminiscent of Mali's Tinariwen.
"Jama'aare" is a rhythmic,pulsing anthem to bringing people together. "Tekana" is a trancey ode to the beauty of the desert. The songs aren't the usual fluff fare: they are about keeping ancient cultures alive, respecting family, care for the environment. Unlike Tinariwen, Etran Finatawa is more primal and ritualistic. The rhythms of the calabash and the Touareg percussion bring a state of contemplation. "Bagui's Soundscape" evokes an encounter with the elaborately dressed Wodaabe in the desert. The three spare acoustic "Tea Ceremony" are as stark as a Zen sand garden.... in the depths of Africa. "Alaghalem Taxat" is an electrifying plea to preserve the beauty of Nature as desertification threatens to overtake it.
"Desert Crossroads" is a powerful, primal work. It's stark contrast to the usual overproduced, fluffy pop fare. Etran Finatawa powerfully summons the desert through their music. Close your eyes, and listen to the sound of the dunes."
Track Listings (16) - Disc #1