Nijerusalem (Vinyl LP)
We go wild for Nigerien synth master Mamman Sani, with his recordings from 1978 truly like nothing else we've heard. Now, Mamman is 73 and still noodling like nobody else. Here he teams up with Berlin-based electronic artist Tropikal Camel for a magical meeting of minds. - Flying Out
Batov Records presents Nijerusalem, a groundbreaking collaboration between Nigerien synth pioneer Mamman Sani and Berlin-based electronic artist Tropikal Camel.
Mamman Sani's electronic organ music, first recorded in 1978, made him a national hero in Niger, led to him writing the Niger’s new national anthem, and has long been cherished by aficionados for its unique blend of traditional Nigerien melodies and synth experimentation. Mamman's music embodies a sense of intimacy, echoing the presence of a solo artist in the room with the listener.
This album is the result of a serendipitous meeting at the Nyege Nyege Festival in Uganda. Both artists shared a residency and studio space, which led to long recording sessions together over the course of two weeks, capturing the organic fusion of Mamman's synth melodies and Tropikal Camel's percussive electronic beats. Despite their divergent backgrounds and ages, Mamman at 73 and Tropikal Camel at 44, they found equilibrium in their collaborative process.
Nijerusalem pays homage to the warm synth sounds of the 80s while infusing them with an African electronic aesthetic. Mamman's music, rooted in Nigerien folk traditions, finds new life in this sonic exploration, resonating with authenticity and innovation.
Both Mamman Sani and Tropikal Camel draw from rich and diverse cultural backgrounds, creating a dialogue of cultural exchange and mutual respect. Mamman's heritage, with roots in the Hausa and Tuareg tribes, intersects with Tropikal Camel’s own North African and Middle Eastern roots and musical interests.
Tracklist:
1. Nomadic
2. Sultan Umnaru's Trip
3. Touareg Spaceship
4. Fulani UFO
5. Sonray Wedding Song
6. Venusian Lady
7. Toil, Sweat & Sun
8. Nomadic (Dub)