Salif Keita does an acoustic album every now and then, but Talé is not one of those. Rather, it’s a contemporary record full of modern dance grooves, a host of special guests and that golden voice.

Keita references early 70s Jamaican dub with Roots Manuva, includes some extraordinary vocalising from Bobby McFerrin and Esperanza Spalding, and samples the B-52’s ‘Planet Claire’. The sounds of Africa are omnipresent, with traditional instruments and voices perfectly integrated.

Special mention must go to producer Philippe Cohen Solal, whose arrangements are constantly creative and surprising.

Paul Barr