About this album

Sound: "A fusion of African rhythms and psychedelic melodies creates an expansive, immersive listening experience."

Where they were

In 2022, Khruangbin released 'Ali' as their first collaborative studio album with Vieux Farka Touré, showcasing their evolution from a primarily instrumental rock band into a global sonic collective. This release follows their successful albums 'Mordechai' (2020) and 'Con Todo El Mundo' (2018), further expanding their artistic vision through cross-cultural collaboration.

Why it matters

'Ali' has been praised for its rich blend of musical traditions, receiving critical acclaim and charting well on various platforms. The album is significant for bridging cultural gaps between American psychedelic rock and West African music, influencing both genres and drawing attention to the artistry of Vieux Farka Touré.

Essential tracks

  • "Savanne" — This opening track sets the tone with its vibrant instrumentation and rhythmic complexity, reflecting the album's core themes of connection and exploration.
  • "Diarabi" — Featuring soulful guitar work, this track exemplifies the seamless blend of Khruangbin's style with Touré's Malian roots, creating a captivating soundscape.
  • "Ali Hala Abada" — This standout track showcases intricate melodies and rich textures, encapsulating the essence of the collaboration while highlighting Touré's vocal prowess.

Release Date

September 23, 2022

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Savanne 5:16
  2. 2 Lobbo 4:34
  3. 3 Diarabi 5:01
  4. 4 Tongo Barra 5:33
  5. 5 Tamalla 5:55
  6. 6 Mahine Me 2:40
  7. 7 Ali Hala Abada 5:02
  8. 8 Alakarra 2:59