Simnadé + 4

When this recording was first released as an LP on the Rogue Records label in 1989 it heralded the exciting discovery of a unique guitar virtuoso. Pascal Diatta’s reputation as a self-taught acoustic guitarist had reached the UK, and Ian Anderson of Rogue Records headed to Casamance in the south of Senegal to try and find Diatta to record him. With luck and good contacts the recording was made with Diatta accompanied by his wife Sona Mané. The LP and subsequent CD release were deleted many years ago and so this digital reissue is very welcome. Diatta has a dynamic and highly melodic guitar style, using two fingers and thumb to pick his riffs in a staccato manner.

Sona Mané’s voice is piercing and spectacularly engaging as it cuts across the acoustic guitar. Diatta sings a high harmony, which is equally fierce. The voices might be an acquired taste – especially for those accustomed to some of the more famous and internationally-known West African vocalists. However, the combination of the two voices and intricate guitar is highly rewarding. Diatta died in 2017 – sadly without ever reaping the benefits of further recordings and international tours, which makes this marvellous recording all the more precious.