Guitar Fo (2004)

"Sékou Diabaté is most famous as the guitarist for the legendary Guinean band Bembeya Jazz. This solo outing, back by the five-piece Bembeya rhythm section, is essentially the same sound that made them one of Africa's greatest outfits, but without the horns, leaving guitar very much front and center. Every note arrives with crystal clarity, and even the fastest runs have a gorgeous precision. He's equally at home on acoustic, as the lovely "Bala Koura" shows with its lilting, relaxed runs. Marvelous as he is on guitar, he's not a singer, as "Ikanam Minala," "Dianamo," and "Diamond Fingers" all show clearly. Be grateful that "Safiata Conde" steps in to help on the first two of those cuts. But the reason for anyone to listen is his playing, and that never disappoints, and nor do the other Bembeya people, who provide the laid-back but crucial support that gives him the freedom to roam the fretboard while keeping the music perfectly Guinean. It's a minor masterpiece of form and technique." (Allmusic)

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