Les Filles De Illighadad – S.T.

The self-titled debut album by guitarist Fatou Seidi Ghali and vocalist Alamnou Akroun is refreshing, raw, and sublimely beautiful. Released on Sahel Sounds, the album was recorded in an open air recording studio in their hometown of Illighadad, and often the delightful sounds of their environment play along side the melodies of the mesmerizing duo. The sound of cicadas in “Inigradan” adds a natural rhythm and warmth that underscores the ruralness of these recordings. The virtuosic trilling by Seidi Ghali is most captivating in “Erilegh Ifanata” and the tonality brings with it a feeling of deep vulnerability. We find this record to be the perfect soundtrack for driving a winding open road or a sunny Sunday lazing at home.

– Tana Yonas

Recommended – Full Listen