Dawda Jobarteh - Soaring Wild Lands (LP)

Dawda Jobarteh's "Soaring Wild Lands" is a captivating fusion of traditional African rhythms and classical string quartet arrangements, released on March 11, 2022, under Sterns Africa. This 36-minute journey through nine tracks showcases Jobarteh's mastery of the kora, a 21-string West African harp-lute, accompanied by the elegant harmonies of the Admeta String Quartet. The album opens with "Sunset In Batumi," setting a serene tone that carries through tracks like "Sunjata" and "Golden Horses," where Jobarteh's intricate kora playing intertwines with the quartet's rich, resonant strings. The instrumental versions of tracks like "Tykke In Mandinka" and "Brikama By Night" highlight the album's versatility, offering a fresh perspective on Jobarteh's compositions. With its blend of folk, world, and African styles, "Soaring Wild Lands" is a testament to Jobarteh's innovative approach to music, making it a standout addition to any music lover's collection.