http://www.kasiisiproject.org/playlists/AfricaMarch2006.htm

1. Henri Dikongue (Cameroon) - Ndutu - 4:31
Known as "Cameroon's Musical Ambassador", Henri Dikongue is a superb guitarist and a quiet singer. Here is an interview.

2. Bola Abimbola (Nigeria) - Ajo - 2:48
"Ajo" means journey in this song about the charms of being at home (more). Bola Abimbola's music is influenced by a wide range of traditions, from his native Yoruba culture to American rhythm and blues. He lives in Georgia and Colorado. Here is Bola's website, new in June 2006.

3. Coco Mbassi (Cameroon) - Mbaki (Intro) - 1:28
Coco Mbassi is an African jazz vocalist. This cut is from her album Sepia. Here is her home page.

4. Vieux Diop (Senegal) - Manko (Unity) - 3:43
Vieux Diop (pronounced "veeah joe") migrated to the US in the 1980s. He is (or was) primarily a player of the kora, a 12-string instrument similar to a lyre or harp. His music crosses cultural boundaries between Africa and the West. An interview.

5. Tarika (Madagascar) - Hahikolo - 3:29
The Malagasy (Madagascaran) people and language are ancestrally Indonesian. Apparently migrations along the shores of the Indian Ocean brought Indonesians here many centuries ago. Madagascar's isolation has led to unique flora, fauna and culture. Sisters Hanitra Rasoanaivo and Noro Raharimalala are this band's vocalists. Here is a snapshot profile from Time magazine.

6. So Kalmery (Congo DRC, Egypt) - Mahaba - 2:39
Guitarist So Kalmery was born in the near Lake Kivu in the eastern region of Zaire, now Congo DRC. He has traveled and studied throughout Africa and played extensively in Kenya, Burundi, Zambia and Zaire. His music melds traditions from all over the world, from the Australian didgeridoo to ancient Egyptian brakka rhythms to western riffs. A short profile.

7. Henri Dikongue (Cameroon) - Bulu Bo Windi Tenge - 3:36
See above.

8. Vieux Diop (Senegal) - C On (The Path) - 5:03
See above.

9. Coco Mbassi (Cameroon) - Mbombo - 4:40
See above.

10. Ray Lema (Congo DRC) - N'Zola - 3:39
An highly introspective international musician. Here is a very extensive and interesting biography.

11. Vieux Diop (Senegal) - Mansani - 5:18
See above.