Senegal: Orchestra Baobab release first studio album in nine years

Released through Strut Records in partnership with Madoky Music, the album was recorded in Dakar, Senegal, and explores themes of heritage, love, resilience and cultural identity.

The project follows ‘Tribute to Ndiouga Dieng’, released in 2017 in honour of the late band member. ‘Made in Senegal’ combines original compositions with reworked songs from the group’s musical catalogue.

The album’s lead single, ‘Togne Bakhoul’, was composed by the late vocalist Rudy Gomis as a tribute to his wife. Another track, ‘Tioro Bye Samba’, revisits a song originally recorded by Senegalese singer Thione Seck, while ‘Casamance’ pays tribute to the southern Senegalese region, which is home to several members of the orchestra.

Formed more than five decades ago as the resident band at Dakar’s Baobab Club, Orchestra Baobab developed a distinctive sound combining Afro-Cuban rhythms, Wolof griot traditions, mbalax, Congolese rumba and jazz.

The group has continued performing despite the deaths of several founding members over the past decade. Its current line-up brings together veteran musicians, younger performers and relatives of former members, maintaining the band's musical traditions.

The present line-up includes saxophonist and bandleader Thierno Koité, drummer Taga Koité, percussionist Moussa Cissokho and rhythm guitarist Yahya Fall. They are joined by vocalists Zacharia ‘Papino’ Koité and Korka Dieng, the group's first female frontwoman, bassist Malick Sy, guitarist René ‘Bolero’ Sowatche, and saxophonist and trombonist Wilfrid Zinzou.

In a statement accompanying the release, Strut Records described ‘Made in Senegal’ as “another modern Baobab classic”, adding that the album combines a fresh approach with strong connections to Senegalese musical traditions.

The album is available on vinyl, including a limited-edition double LP, CD and digital platforms.