The First Case of the African Soft Parade

We are back to Africa this week, with a new mix of countries and sounds.

This week I mix some of the more unusual and folk-influenced music of Africa into a deeper and more zen inspiring set... perfect for a return to typical Portland spring rain patterns.

I am mixing elements this week in 3 equal parts:

Contemporary African folk from the Sahel area of Mali (with one groovy little Congo tune thrown in).

Golden era (70s) music from Mali's magnificent state orchestras, including Rail Band and Super Biton de Segou. 

Lost treasures of Ethiopia's short-lived music scene from the late 60s to the mid-70s. 

Always happy on this show to recognize international compilation and reissue efforts from local labels, of which their are many in today's set. Big tip of the hat to Mississippi Records and Sahel Sounds of (the mighty rose metropolis) Portland, OR.