Senegal & the Gambia / Various

Not surprising, given the proximity of the Wolof homeland to Saharan caravan routes, Wolof music is an intermingling of native West African styles with those of Muslim North Africa. Percussion instruments are featured prominently in Wolof music, as is the halam, believed to be the grandfather of the American banjo. Tracks include songs of praise, wedding songs, and dance rhythms. Liner notes feature photographs of Wolof musicians as well as descriptions of instruments and songs.