Review: "Missing You...Me Yeewni"

Missing You is probably Baaba Maal's best album yet. It combines the energy & excitement of albums like "Nomad Soul" or "Firin' in Fouta" with more traditional sounds. Baaba has found his perfect sound, showing off his powerful voice above Mansour Seck's acoustic guitar & Kaouding Cissokho's sparkling Kora (a traditional West African harp).

If you're not familiar with his music, Baaba Maal has one of the most powerful voices in the world, reminiscent of an Islamic call to prayer (in fact, that's exactly what his father did). The first time I saw him live was at Africa Fete 1995 in Los Angeles. Baaba was the last performer, and he appeared on the outdoor stage at midnight. His voice seemed to fill the entire universe, and he amazed me by being able to sing like that while dancing around the stage without getting out of breath.

Unlike the slick studio production of his earlier albums, "Missing You" was recorded at night in the village of Nbunk, Senegal. It has all of the energy & spontaneity of a live performance. Some of the songs use village sounds to enhance the mood.

The opening track, "Yoolelle Maman", uses the idea of Earth as a fatherland and Africa as the motherland, allegorically representing the universal relationship between children and their parents.

Traditionally sung by fishermen, the second cut, "Miyaabele" features a balafon (African xylophone-like instrument) played in waltz time with distinctly Latin American flavors. This ancient African song is a cry for African unity directed at all Africans and their leaders.

"Fa Laay Fanaan" places blame for the current universal strife on leaders of the world, Africans included. While decrying the abject poverty, lack of healthcare and widespread tribal warfare, Baaba reminds Africans of their positive contributions on many levels. Baaba is joined by the extraordinary eighteen year old Griot Cisse Damba Kanoute ("Mami"), who made her international recording debut on Ernest Ranglin's "In Search Of The Lost Riddim" (1998), which also featured Baaba Maal.

"Leydi Ma" sings of the need to preserve the essential life source, while "Jamma Jengii" is a tender love song comparing the beauty of nature to the intimacy of a special romantic relationship. "Mamadi" ("Tribute to Parents") suggests that the family structure is beginning to change with men taking a more active role in the home.

"Fanta" ("Spirits of the River") is an ancient tale about a beautiful woman, a spirit of the river, who proves irresistable to men. "Laare Yoo" ("My Friend") suggests the use of friendship and discussion for positive ends. "Senegalle Ngummee" is based on an ancient prayer for good health, a good spirit, and strong soul.

"Kowoni Maayo" ("By the River") was recorded at Real World Studios and features Mansour Seck's guitar prominently. In this song, both of them share memories about the town of Podor where both of them grew up and long for their hometown.

The final track, "Allah Addu Jam" ("God Give us Peace") is the most powerful, showing the full power of Baaba's band, Daande Lenol as well as Baaba's soaring voice.