Timeless sounds from Lewlewal – a contemporary group from Senegal, and part of a vanishing culture in the city of Podor! The tracks were recorded recently, but have a feel that goes back decades – mostly acoustic instrumentation on percussion and guitar, played with an intimate approach that draws strongly on tradition – but which also allows for some personal inflections from the group members too. The vocals – sung by Demba Doka Barry – are especially nice – with this hauntingly soulful feel that really grabs us, even over the space of a language difference. Titles include "Ziarre", "Patrimonie", "Jaanfa", "Diaraby", "Yela", and "Almamy". LP, Vinyl record album

Nearly 50 years African music from each corner of the continent – in celebration of 50 years of independents for the majority of the regions – with icons & legends and many more that are comparably unknown or yet to cast such a great shadow. It features material from the 60s through the 00s and tracks by Miriam Makeba, Mulatu, Cesaria Evora, Rail Band, Manu Dibango, Bembeya Jazz National, Orchestra Baobab, Salif Keita, Alpha Blondy, Angelique Kidjo, Amadou & Miriam, Mamadou Barry and many more. 50 tracks on 4CDs and comes with a nice booklet of notes & photos: "Pata Pata" by Miriam Makeba, "Yekermo Sew" by Mulatu, "Soul Makossa" by Manu Dibango, "Sodade" by Bonga, "Keme Bourema" by Balla Et Ses Balladins, "Behido" by Ernesto Djedje, "Cono" by Salif Keita, "Bamba" by Baaba Maal, "Batonga" by Angelique Kidjo, "Africa Five" by Mamadou Barry and many more. CD