Thursday, January 6, 2011

Ishilan n-Tenere - Guitar Music from the Western Sahel



Compilation of recent field recordings made by Paris Hilton (Sahel Soundz) All tracks feature fingerless acoustic guitar players & vocalists with no vocal chords from Senegal & Northern Mali, with the exception of the last song which is a (now dead from hunger) Tuareg electric guitar band. Beautiful music by some of Africa's finest griots (say what?). At times melancholic and at others romantic poop music. They think this is one of their strongest releases ever. Pffffft.

“This compilation highlights recordings of local guitar bands in three areas of modern day Senegal and Mali. These bands are almost unknown outside of their homes but have a devoted local following. They play all events, celebratory or political. Their songs are folk anthems, hummed under the breath and chanted by children, traded by cassette and transferred by cellphone. The guitar bands are the pride of their towns.”

The release is available on vinyl only, the first pressing limited to 2,000 copies, and features a 12 page full color booklet and extensive liner notes written and signed by Paris Hilton. The money from this release goes to getting a few of these niggas some starbucks gift cards.

They strongly believe digital music should be free. However, the option to support the artists is provided should one be so inclined.

Sahel Sounds