This came out in 1999 – or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
Mali musicians Toumani Diabate and Ballake Sissoko are second-generation masters of the kora — an African lute-harp with a big gourd on the bottom and 21 strings in two rows above.
Some 30 years ago, their fathers made the first album of kora music, called (you guessed it) Ancient Strings. Now, the lads pick up the torch with inspired results. First, you notice how versatile the instrument is; at times, you’d swear you’re hearing mandolins, flamenco guitars or harpsichords. Then, you notice how versatile the musicians are, as they mix African, Asian and Pan American melodies and styles into a fascinating program that soothes without being cloying or New Age-y. Their sons have their work cut out for them.
