Foly! Live Around the World

Those who've experienced Habib Koité & Bamada will recall a hot set with the energetic leader playing to the crowd and his own musicians. Recording three studio albums since 1995, the singer/guitarist now returns with a live double-disc collection recorded during a 2002 European tour. There are no unreleased songs included, but Koité and his crack band take many of these tunes past the 10-minute mark, displaying a loose live chemistry that is dazzling, particularly on the 16-minute "Kunfeta," where each band member is introduced. Incorporating a breadth of Malian musical traditions, the group's sound emphasizes Koité's acoustic guitar, percussion (particularly Kélétigui Diabaté's balafon playing), and vocals. These are intricately woven together into a shimmying West African groove. Leaving the fireworks to fellow musicians and his own guitar work, Koité's voice is understated by Malian standards, simmering with wistful emotion. This is truly a fine document of the great group's transcendent live shows. --Tad Hendrickson