Seetu [CD]

African Jazz Roots - Seetu / Seetu is African Jazz Roots' most accomplished production. It's force is drawn from the demands of the most accomplished cross-cultural encounters. West Africa is one of the historic cradles of jazz, and it was there, in 2009, that Simon Goubert and Ablaye Cissoko met during the Saint-Louis jazz festival in Senegal. Two previously released albums bear witness to an already long history. This new one, so, is the fruit of ten years work, exchanges and friendships, punctuated by numerous concerts. It's the time it takes to build a strong identity. - "Seetu" is African Jazz Roots' most accomplished production, making the kora more modulative than it usually is. But the repertoire also draws resolutely on traditional Senegalese sources, with simple melodies, griot songs and pared-down ballads that are seized upon by high-flying improvisers in total connection. Far removed from folklorism, "Seetu" is a true musical experience. It's great emotional force is drawn from the demands of the most accomplished cross-cultural encounters. A furiously joyful, powerfully acoustic journey in which each of the protagonists finds his or her own space for expression, whether intimate or spectacular.