Kaira

This was the album that created an icon. The late Toumani Diabaté released his debut Kaira in 1988 and it launched his international career and helped him become the most famous proponent of the Malian kora. Captured in a single London afternoon when Toumani was just 22, and produced by Lucy Durán, this groundbreaking record introduced the world to a virtuoso who would quickly become known for his technical skill and innovative collaborations. Thanks to Chrysalis Records, this timeless classic has been remastered and reissued for the first time in decades, on both CD and vinyl. Kaira feels as fresh today as it did upon release. It really is a thing of beauty. Only five tracks long, Kaira is full of delicate melodies and emotional depth that are impossible not to fall in love with. Throughout, Toumani’s kora, further polished on this remastered release, shimmers with grace and vitality. The vinyl includes new sleeve notes and previously unseen photographs by Durán. After reissuing New Ancient Strings, Toumani’s 1999 collaboration with Ballaké Sissoko, last year, this is another exciting release Chrysalis’ campaign celebrating Toumani’s extraordinary legacy. Whether you’re a devoted fan of this sorely missed performer or a newcomer to his genius, this reissue is not to be missed.