Etran Finatawa combine the rich nomadic cultures of the Tuareg and Wodaabe people from the West African country of Niger a region that for thousands of years has served as a crossroads between the Arabs of North Africa and the sub-Saharan traditions. Etran Finatawa blend traditional instruments with electric guitars, combining the polyphonic songs of the Wodaabe people with modern arrangements, transporting you to the Sahara with their evocative sound. Tracks: Surbajo, A Dunya, Iledeman, Aliss, Maleele, iriarer, Ekenan, Anadjibo, Ronde, Heeme. 49:37 mins, UK. WORLD MUSIC NETWORK.

Second album from the protege of Ali Farka Toure, and recorded at the same sessions as Toure's acclaimed Niafunke album. Includes informative booklet with lyrics translated into English. 12 tracks, BELGIUM, CONTRE-JOUR.

Jibo Baje, the prestigious Nigerian griot, sings epics of genesis to the warm sound of the moolo lute. 13 tracks, 71:10 mins. OCORA RADIO FRANCE.