The latest releases reviewed

  AMADOU & MIRIAM   Welcome to Mali Warner Music ***

African blues has morphed to the beat of its countless champions, from Toumani Diabate to Tiken Jah Fakoly and Manu Chao. Amadou & Miriam ploughed their own furrow, reaching a wide audience with their last original recording (2005's Dimanche à Bamako). Amadou's bluesy guitar carved a funky route behind Miriam's vocals, and the pair burnt it up on stage with ferocious energy. Their latest collection embraces the beats of guest producer Damon Albarn, and opts to boogie on the dancefloor with Manu Chao again. But it's the laidback Bozosand the paean to romantic love, I Follow You, that etch their distinctive signature in a world overflowing with stray beats. Still, a handful of memorable songs can't elevate this mixed collection to the dizzy heights of their previous release. www.amadou-miriam.com SIOBHÁN LONG

Download tracks: Sekebe, Welcome to Mali