Africa Yontii

Description

"It is time for Africans to take their destiny into their own hands. Otherwise, others will do it for them." This is the message that instrumental guitarist Tidiane Thiam hopes to convey with his new solo album, Africa Yontii, a Pulaar title that translates to "Africa Time." For an untrained listener, Tidiane's bold statement contrasts sharply with his melodic playing. But a more attentive listen to his expressive guitar work reveals a thoughtful voice that stands out among contemporary guitarists. Originally from Podor, a small fishing town in Senegal where the great Baaba Maal lived, Tidiane taught himself to play guitar by listening to Manding music broadcast late at night on the radio. He quickly developed his style, often incorporating Pulaar folk themes into his compositions. On Africa Yontii, his third album for Sahel Sounds, he teamed up with hip-hop beatmaker Ndiaye Moctar from M.N. Records to accompany him, integrating unexpected elements such as field recordings and electronic sounds. With Africa Yontii, Tidiane Thiam reclaims the beleaguered genre of "world music" in a sound space that has long been dominated by others telling his story.