CD Review: Dobet Gnahoré

Dobet Gnahoré (pronounced DOH-bay gna-OR-ay) is a singer, dancer and percussionist who hails from the West African nation of the Ivory Coast. This 2010 Grammy Award winner (for Best Urban/Alternative Performance)and BBC World Music Awardee for “Best Newcomer” draws heavily on the traditional music of the Ivory Coast, but also explores many other African genres to create a diverse, Pan-African pop-influenced sound all her own. In March of this year, Dobet Gnahore released a new album “Djekpa La You” to  rave reviews. Like her past two US-released albums, Ano Neko (2004) and Na Afriki (2007), Dobet Gnahoré tries to pass on African culture in this album, the same way it was passed on to her by Cameroonian writer and director Wéré Wéré Liking and by her father, Boni Gnahoré, who has played a decisive role in her music.

           Performed in a number of different African languages, the album’s songs address social and political issues: the struggles of women in African society, the exploitation of children, the impact of greed and violence on the family. This album “Djekpa La You”, the title of which means “Children of the world” in Dida, pays homage to the children of Africa. On the track Boudou, the sanza, the balafon, the calabash and bongos are brought in to support the guitar, the vocal backup and Dobet’s warm and powerful voice. The harmonies on this track are very natural sounding and track very well. At extreme settings, the doubled vocals begin to stand out more, but allows Dobet’s distinct voice to soar and the song to be enjoyed even though you might not understand the language in which she sings. South African star Vusi Mahlasela (who duets powerfully on the soothing Kokpa) is one of four featured guest vocalists providing a more knowing contrast to Dobet’s guileless singing, with fellow Ivorian Soum Bill taking centre stage on the album’s most bruising arrangement, Evigne. The other guests on this CD include the singer’s own father Boni Gnabore, a master percussionist himself, and Fatoumata Diawara.

        The recommended tracks on this album are Evigne, Boudou , Nfletoun (featuring Fatoumata Diawara) and Kokpa. Take it in, enjoy the beauty and hope that her music will pour over you, and while you listen, figure out how you’ll share the experience with others.

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