Wonderful and Relaxing

This album is simply one of the best releases in years. These two men are superior musicians, and this disc showcases them beautifully. The combination of these two instruments as well is a delight. What makes the album all the more interesting is its free form and abundance of improvisation. The chemistry between these guys is undeniable, and it is a treat to have the chance to hear it. The music is wonderful and relaxing, and I guarantee it will affect you greatly.

Superb album, delicate and unaffected music, unhurried, enjoyable to the last echoing note

Having experienced Toumani Diabat�'s music before, I instantly recognized it on a local "Bonjour Africa" radio show this afternoon. Racing to my local music seller to buy this disc, I found the last copy. You'll have no such trouble here, lucky you. This music is amazing ... the entrancing, rhythmic interplay between Tour�'s gentle guitar and Diabat�'s lilting kora are like two string instrument spirits filling the room with their joy. Despite being recorded with a mobile setup in a hotel room on the banks of a river, the sound is lush and full-bodied; the bass response needs no subwoofer to penetrate to your bones. A few very deft overdubs by Ry Cooder and his son Joachim, and others, don't intrude.

Music You Can't Forget

This album is really a jam session between two superb musicians from two connected but different African cultures. I've been a fan of Toure for years, and love his collaborations with Ry Cooder. This time Cooder stays in the background, and the music is different, but haunting and brilliantly performed. I have the feeling that a conversation is going on between these two men on many levels through their music--almost a mediation of cultural differences and antagonisms.