This compilation brings together the best of the work that the Rail Band recorded between 1970 and 1983. Soundiata starts with the impressive - because 27 (!) Minute long - title track. The recordings on this CD sound spontaneous, direct and earthy. Due to the wide view of its band members, the Rail Band drew on many musical tunes. Rumba, pop, afrobeat and folk music from the Bambara and Malinké
… were among the permanent ingredients. The Rail Band was renowned for its excellent singers. Sufficient evidence of this can also be found on Soundiata. Between '70 and '83, among others, Salif Kaita, Mory Kanté and Magan Ganessy were behind the microphone. The extensive liner notes tell about the origins of the group and the striking rivalry that prevailed between the different vocalists of the band. (PdK)more