Aïcha Kone - Poro Dance

Review by ashar Goodsall

Aïcha Kone's latest album, Poro Dance, is a vibrant celebration of West African rhythms and melodies that will transport listeners to the heart of the continent. From the opening track, "Djandjon," with its infectious groove and Kone's powerful vocals, to the closing number, "Nanou," which showcases her ability to convey emotion with subtlety and grace, this album is a tour de force of Afro-pop.

Kone's voice is the centerpiece of the album, and she uses it to great effect, exploring a range of moods and styles. On "Mali Nafa," she sings with a raw, bluesy intensity that captures the pain and longing of her homeland, while on "Yelema," she adopts a more playful, flirtatious tone that is impossible to resist. Throughout the album, Kone's voice is backed by a tight, dynamic band that includes traditional West African instruments like the kora and the balafon, as well as modern instrumentation like electric guitar and keyboards.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Balanba," a song that showcases Kone's ability to blend different musical traditions seamlessly. The song features a reggae-style rhythm, but with Kone's vocals and the traditional instruments, it takes on a distinctly West African flavor. Another highlight is "Folon," a slow, meditative ballad that showcases Kone's vocal range and emotional depth.

Summary by ashar Goodsall

Poro Dance is a fantastic album that will appeal to fans of African music as well as anyone who appreciates great vocal performances and infectious rhythms. Aïcha Kone is a true talent, and this album is a testament to her artistry and vision. Highly recommended.