Released in March 2006, Savane, the last solo album by the legendary Malian guitarist and desert blues pioneer Ali Farka Touré is to be remastered and made available on double vinyl for the first time.
Derek Gripper walked onto the Celtic Connections stage with a cheery nod, acknowledging the welcome from the audience, took a seat, relaxed with one ankle resting on the other knee, and proceeded to play the most beautiful, enchanting guitar music you will ever hear.
In what was sure to be one of the most memorable collaborative events of Celtic Connections, kora master Toumani Diabaté and his Symmetric Orchestra teamed up with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra for a special arrangement of his masterpiece of solo kora, The Mande Variations.
Toumani Diabaté is to receive an Honorary Doctorate for his role in Malian music. Plus: he releases a new album with his son Sidiki and together they will perform at Glastonbury this weekend.
The Word Circuit label have finally relesed their dream project: AfroCubanism. A project that was planned back in 1996. Nick Gold, finally gets his dream come true with great results!
