FIERY FLUTE FOUND
FULA FLUTE
(Blue
Monster Records 002)
Sylvain
Leroux has produced the first full recording of the West African tambin
or fulani flute, a three holed transverse flute made from a vine.
A little known instrument from the highlands of Guinea, this instrument
is stunning in its expression. Like the Slovakian fujara, it is played
in overtones, but when a voice is also added, the result is a powerful
burst of multiphonics that raises the hairs on your neck, raises your
eyebrows and brings an involuntary "wow" to your lips!
The
star of this album is definitely Bailo Bah, who has been playing the
tambin since childhood. His performances, whether solo or with an
ensemble of kora, balafon and percussion, are powerful and very expressive.
Yet we are also treated to Sylvain playing on a couple of tracks and
the difference is slight but interesting. If you looking for something
less energetic, this music could wear on you, as it definitely jumps
out of the speakers, but for those who like their music hot, this
is for you! More information can be found at: www.fulaflute.net.
Randy
Raine-Reusch
Musicworks #85 Spring 2003
www.musicworks.ca
