Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Urban Village (South Africa)When listening to new music, I’m always captivated by artists who push boundaries. Urban Village is a band from Soweto whose mix of folk…3d ago3d ago
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Mix Tape #23While there are many countries that celebrate their Independence/National Day this month, I only have music for Algeria (July 3) and Cape…Jul 3Jul 3
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Bombino (Niger)The New York Times hailed him as “the sultan of shred” and Noisey claims he is “the world’s best guitarist.” He is the first Nigerien…Jun 26Jun 26
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Daby Balde (Senegal)If you are lucky enough to be born into a griot family, you get to enjoy making music as your birthright. The road is a lot harder if you…Jun 19Jun 19
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Kondi Band (Sierra Leone/US)My favorite music incorporates traditional instruments with modern. If it is danceable and has a great beat, all the better. With a great…Jun 12Jun 12
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Mix Tape #22Some great music this month to celebrate some of the following countries: Mozambique (June 25), Madagascar (June 26), and Democratic…Jun 5Jun 5
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Djelimady Tounkara (Mali)Although he started out as a drummer, he has come to be known as one of the greatest guitarists in Mali. Coming from a griot family, his…May 29May 29
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Hindi Zahra (Morocco)Her music has drawn comparisons to Billie Holiday, Patti Smith, Norah Jones and Beth Gibbons of Portishead. But I think she’s got a unique…May 22May 22
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Kaleta & Super Yamba Band (Benin/US)When this Brooklyn-based band first started out, their idea was to play just original instrumental compositions inspired by 1970’s West…May 15May 15
Maria NoelAfrican Roots and Rhythms: Mix Tape #21There are four countries celebrating their Independence/ National Day this month — Ethiopia (May 5), Cameroon (May 20), Eritrea (May 24)…May 81May 81
