Orchestra Baobab

Formed in Senegal in 1970, Orchestra Baobab is a multi-ethnic, multi-national band that combines Latin and Caribbean music with West African styles such as the Wolof Griot and Mandinga traditions. The music is a polyrhythmic stew that features percussion, guitars, horns, and singing in various languages and styles. Taking their name from Club Baobab, where they often played, the group’s distinct blend of Afro-Cuban-Caribbean sounds made them one of the most popular groups in Senegal, and they released 20 albums (usually on cassette tape) between 1970 and 1985. The group broke up in 1987, but interest in their output grew throughout the ‘90s, culminating in the 2001 re-release in Europe of 1982’s PIRATES CHOICE. The album generated such international attention that the original line-up of Orchestra Baobab reunited to tour Europe and America. They’ve since released two albums: 2002’s SPECIALIST IN ALL STYLES and 2007’s MADE IN DAKAR.