JeConte & the Mali Allstars

Teaming up with a number of Malian musicians, American singer-songwriter JeConte has released Mali Blues in an effort to raise money for the Futbol Center for Hope, a Malian organization run by Mada Souadou Diabaté (the sister of Toumani Diabaté). The center teaches soccer and skills for healthy living to young women, and is sponsored by FIFA. Mali Blues combines West African rhythms with the raucous blues of the American South and a healthy dose of funk. Featuring a star-studded cast of Malian musicians and vocalists, including the likes of Vieux Farka Touré (son of the legendary Ali Farka Touré), the album is a soulful paean to a nation wracked by recent violence. Sonically, it's a skilfully executed collection of music that transcends the underlying message, which is the mark of a powerful songwriter.