Samba Touré’s latest album, ”Baarakelaw,” meaning ”the workers” in Bambara, offers a poignant tribute to the often-overlooked laborers of Mali’s capital, Bamako. Touré shifts the traditional focus of West African griots, who often praise the wealthy and powerful, to instead celebrate the unsung heroes of daily life. From the rhythmic hammering of women refurbishing bazin fabric, captured at the end of the track ”Fini gochila,” to songs dedicated to street ironers, rickshaw drivers, shea butter producers, tailors, water vendors, and housekeepers, the album paints a vibrant portrait of resilience and hard work. The album concludes with a touching homage to Touré’s wife, who passed away in 2023.
Touré’s musical approach is akin to a modern West African work song, echoing the struggles and triumphs of everyday people. Translated to a Western context, these songs could easily resonate with the lives of delivery drivers, ride-share operators, and cleaning staff. He masterfully captures the essence of these often-invisible workers, giving voice to their experiences and acknowledging their vital contribution to society. This focus on the marginalized offers a refreshing perspective, contrasting with the traditional griot narratives that often center on the elite.
”Baarakelaw” meticulously crafts a sonic landscape that reflects the bustling energy and quiet dignity of Bamako. While the album may initially appear somewhat uniform in its musical style, repeated listens reveal a rich tapestry of subtle nuances and variations. Touré’s artistic approach mirrors that of a writer who consistently revisits a specific theme, exploring its depths and uncovering new perspectives. The rhythmic interplay of traditional instruments like the ngoni, calabash, and bass, combined with Touré’s distinctive guitar work, creates a hypnotic blend of desert blues and West African rhythms.
While the album doesn’t quite reach the heights of his 2021 release, ”Binga,” which many consider his best work, ”Baarakelaw” still holds its own. The slight dip in quality may be attributed to producer Mark Mulholland’s additions, which occasionally detract from the raw, intimate feel of Touré’s music. Touré’s music shines brightest when it’s stripped down to its core elements, featuring his captivating guitar work and the interplay of traditional Malian instruments. In these moments, the album truly comes alive, radiating an intimate and incandescent twilight blues.
The standout track, ”Boulanga,” dedicated to the women who produce shea butter, exemplifies the album’s strengths. The song’s hypnotic rhythm and melancholic melody evoke a sense of quiet power and resilience. It captures the essence of the women’s labor, celebrating their contribution to the community and the global cosmetics industry. Touré’s vocals, imbued with both strength and vulnerability, weave a compelling narrative of everyday heroism. The track’s sparse instrumentation allows the listener to fully appreciate the beauty and complexity of the music.
”Baarakelaw” is more than just an album; it is a testament to the unsung heroes of Bamako. Through his music, Touré illuminates the lives of those often overlooked, revealing their dignity, resilience, and the vital role they play in society. The album’s rhythmic pulse and melancholic melodies create a powerful and moving experience, inviting listeners to connect with the human stories behind the music. While some production choices may slightly detract from the overall experience, the album’s core strengths, anchored in Touré’s exceptional musicianship and heartfelt lyrics, shine through, making ”Baarakelaw” a worthy addition to his discography. The album’s intimate and glowing twilight blues, especially evident in tracks like ”Boulanga,” creates a unique and captivating listening experience.
