"LÉMAN" - BLICK BASSY (Scandinavia exclusively)

• artist:
  BLICK BASSY (Scandinavia exclusively)
• featured artist:
  BLICK BASSY
• release year:
  2009
• style(s):
  • World Jazz
  • Afro-Soul
• country:
  Cameroon
• formats:
  • audio file / digital
  • CD (Compact Disc)
• record submitted by:
  One World
• label:
  World Connection Agency
• publisher:
  World Connection Agency
• 
  buy this record

Léman - Blick Bassy (World Connection)

As Blick Bassy's voice wafts from the speakers the impact of a disheartening, grey April morning recedes in time to the gentle pulse of the opening song, Africa. Soulful, subtle harmonies surf along on waves of sensitive, undulating rhythms and conjure up echoes of similar offerings from fellow Cameroonian Henri Dikongué and singer/songwriter Lokua Kanza from the Democratic Republic of Congo. On Léman Paris based Blick Bassy blends his own traditional Bassa culture with influences that span Marvin Gaye and Gilberto Gil. The easy going swing that underpins his compositions reflect his passion for jazz and bossa nova and it comes as no surprise to discover that along with notching up numerous regional and international awards for his band Macase (which he left in 2005) he has worked with Manu Dibango, Cheick Tidiane Seck and Etienne Mbappé. Blick Bassy is from the Bassa people - a nomadic tribe, originally from Egypt - and on this album he has chosen to sing in Bassa, a language which is in danger of being lost but one which clearly lends itself to song. Recorded at Salif Keita's studio in Bamako, Léman reflects his love of musical encounters. The modern blends effortlessly with the traditional and the music wraps around his thoughtful songs like a soft, tailored coat. Bassa means "from the earth" and these songs, like Bolo, which have been floating around in his head for the past 5 years, illuminate exactly where he's coming from.
MONDOMIX

Links

• Blick Bassy live - Mintaba