Kayeba Khasso

This is the debut recording of a married couple from Mali who shot to fame in West Africa following their appearance on the TV competition Africa Has Incredible Talent. Djénéba Kouyaté comes from a griot heritage and Fousco (Fousseyni Sissoko) is also from a musical family. It's no wonder that the pair have been so successful – Djénéba has a startling and strikingly beautiful voice. It is silky smooth and soars with controlled power when required, while her partner Fousco is a great composer, guitarist and vocalist. Their voices are finely matched, sometimes singing in harmony, sometimes alternating. They have a slick and unique backing band comprising two guitars, cello and drums, with guest kora provided by Ballaké Sissoko on one track and accordion on another. With deft ease, they switch between traditional-style praise singing, spiky reggae, and modern electric Mande styles with some rock guitar overtones. Particularly enjoyable and innovative is the use of cello as a bass instrument and embellishment to the guitar work.

This is a finely crafted debut and suggests that there is plenty to look forward to from this couple.