Release Date: 25th October 2024
Label: We Are Busy Bodies // Sing a Song Fighter
Formats: CD, Vinyl & Digital (Pre-order on Bandcamp)
Single: "Megaphone" out 24th September
Listen now on Bandcamp
In a world where musical borders are becoming increasingly fluid, the forthcoming album Jouer by Swedish jazz flautist Annarella and Malian ngoni harp master Django emerges as a mesmerizing dreamscape that intricately weaves together the rich cultural tapestries of West Africa and Scandinavia. Set to release on October 25, 2024, this debut album offers a captivating exploration of sound, seamlessly blending genres and traditions.
The album’s first single, “Megaphone,” delivers an infectious Afro-groove from the outset, featuring the harmonious interplay of Django's vocals and those of his partner, Marietou Kouyaté. This track, while running at just under two and a half minutes, encapsulates the essence of Jouer — a vibrant slice of rhythm and melody that invites listeners into a world of sonic delight.
Django, hailing from a lineage of musical legends, is the cousin of the late, great kora virtuoso Toumani Diabaté, while the master balafon player Kélétigui Diabaté is his uncle. His deep roots in the griot tradition of Mali infuse the album with authenticity, while Annarella’s ethereal flute melodies bridge the gap to her Scandinavian homeland. Together, they create a sound that transcends geographical barriers, inviting listeners on a journey that feels both intimate and expansive.
The production of Jouer, led by Annarella, adds a tender touch to the album's exploration of jazz improvisations, transcendental grooves, and intricate harmonies. The title itself, meaning “play” in French, reflects not only the playful spirit of the music but also the collaborative essence that defines the project. Recorded between the vibrant cities of Dakar and Stockholm, the album captures the energy of both locations, with Django’s ngoni laying down rhythmic foundations that anchor the listener while Annarella’s flute weaves a sense of freedom and space throughout.
Across its diverse tracks, Jouer features a mix of instrumental and vocal pieces sung in Mandingo and Bambara, complemented by the talents of guest musicians including renowned Swedish folk artist Ale Möller, who contributes a palette of sounds from the jew’s harp to accordion. The rhythmic backbone is provided by Swedish trio Lars Fredrik Swahn, Pet Lager, and co-producer Karl Jonas Winqvist, adding further layers to this rich sonic landscape.
The magic of this album traces back to the chance meeting of Annarella and Django on tour with the Wau Wau Collectif, an Afro-European project released through Sahel Sounds in 2021. A spark ignited between them, leading to spontaneous jam sessions during their downtime on the tour bus and in hotel rooms after concerts. This organic chemistry blossomed into a creative partnership that saw them returning to their homes — Annarella to Örebro, Sweden, and Django to Dakar, Senegal — where they began exchanging musical ideas, riffing off each other’s tracks. The debut single, aptly named "Dakar Örebro," is a testament to their collaborative spirit, crafted over 18 months and finalized in May 2024.
As a member of the illustrious Diabaté griot family, Django’s musical upbringing is steeped in a tradition that stretches back centuries, shaping his artistry and dedication to his craft. With the recent passing of his cousin Toumani Diabaté, the album takes on a poignant significance, serving as a bridge connecting generations of musical heritage.
Jouer stands as a powerful reminder of the beauty that can emerge when cultural barriers are dismantled and creativity is given the freedom to flourish. The collaboration of a Swedish flautist and a Malian griot harpist not only enriches the musical landscape but also invites listeners to reflect on the interconnectedness of our shared human experience. In a time when music can heal and unite, Jouer offers a fresh perspective, leaving us in awe of the remarkable artistry born from this unique partnership.
For those eager to embark on this sonic journey, Jouer is available for pre-order on vinyl via Bandcamp, ensuring that listeners can immerse themselves in this captivating blend of cultures when it releases on October 25. In the meantime, don’t miss the chance to vibe to the infectious “Megaphone” on its release, and prepare to be transported by the dream-like soundscapes that await in Jouer.
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